Maratua - Extra Divers

Located within the Maratua Atoll in Indonesia, Extra Divers operates a network of specialised resorts designed to provide direct access to some of Kalimantan's most significant dive sites. The operation is split across several locations, including the Nabucco Island Resort, Nunukan Island Resort, and the Virgin Cocoa – Tropical Hideaway Island, each offering a different way to experience the atoll.

For those looking for a dedicated dive base, the Virgin Cocoa serves as the primary hub, with its facilities situated directly on a private jetty. This setup allows for seamless transitions from your accommodation to the water, making it an ideal base for both reef exploration and longer excursions to the surrounding islands.

The centre provides instruction and guidance across a variety of levels, catering to divers from their first certification through to advanced technical training. The team is experienced in managing both recreational and specialised diving requirements, including rebreather support.

Training is available through both PADI and SSI frameworks, ensuring that divers can complete their specific certification requirements regardless of their preferred agency. The centre's focus is on providing personalised service within the Maratua ecosystem, moving away from mass tourism to focus on the specific needs of the local environment.

The centre offers a comprehensive syllabus of training, starting with the Open Water Diver and moving through to the Advanced Open Water Diver course. For those looking to expand their technical repertoire, specialized training is available in Deep Diver, Wreck, Cavern, and Sidemount diving.

Technical and professional progression is also supported, with courses available for Assistant Instructor candidates. The centre also provides instruction for Nitrox and rebreather diving, catering to the more advanced segments of the diving community.

The Virgin Cocoa base is fully equipped for divers, featuring a dedicated drying room and equipment storage area. You will find a reception area and sink facilities on-site to manage your kit after each outing.

Full rental kit is available for those not travelling with their own equipment, covering the essentials needed for reef and current diving. The facilities are designed to integrate with the natural surroundings of the atoll while providing the necessary infrastructure for a professional dive operation.

The atoll is a stronghold for large pelagic species. You can expect to encounter hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna lewini), leopard sharks (Triakis semifasciata), whitetip reef sharks (Triaenodon obesus), and grey reef sharks (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos). Larger visitors such as tuna (Thunnus), eagle rays (Aetobatus), and various species of turtles (Cheloniidae) are also regularly seen patrolling the reefs.

The reef structure itself is built upon a foundation of hard coral (Scleractinia) and soft coral (Alcyonacea), providing a complex habitat for schooling fish, jacks (Carangidae), and various reef fish. Large groupers (Epinephelus) and barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) are common residents of these coral gardens.

For macro enthusiasts, the area offers significant biodiversity. You can find nudibranchs (Chromodoris willani), various species of shrimp, and octopuses tucked into the reef crevices. The presence of diverse small organisms makes the shallower reef sections particularly rewarding for underwater photographers.

Diving in the Maratua region is influenced by the local currents, particularly in specific areas like Big Fish Country, which is known for its channel flows. These currents can be significant and require a certain level of buoyancy control and experience.

Seasonal accessibility is generally good year-round, though divers should always check local conditions regarding swell and water movement when planning excursions to the more exposed outer islands.