The experience
The village's dive information distinguishes Turtle Traffic from deeper or more exposed sites around the archipelago. Its stated minimum for Turtle Traffic is Open Water; other listed sites recommend advanced certification. These are starting points for discussion, not permission to dive independently or a promise that a site suits every diver with that card.
Gateway and accommodation
Use Maratua as the stay base and arrange transfers with the accommodation. The boat journey from the mainland is a separate planning commitment. Confirm arrival and departure arrangements before booking flights, including the possibility of a mainland overnight when connections do not align.
Time and effort
A local resort describes a typical day with three dives, but actual profiles and surface intervals belong to the operator's safety plan. Nearby dives may return to the resort between sessions; more distant outings can keep you aboard for lunch. Reserve time after the final dive before flying according to your training and professional advice.
Arranging the visit
Send the dive centre your certification, recent logbook experience and equipment needs before committing. Ask how currents affect entry, exit and site selection, whether a check dive is required, and how non-diving companions are accommodated. Confirm conservation fees and rental equipment separately; an accommodation price does not necessarily include diving.
Conditions and preparation
Bring your certification and dive-insurance details, and confirm emergency arrangements. Maratua is remote: the resort FAQ describes a much longer journey to the larger medical services in Berau. Follow the briefing, maintain buoyancy and never touch or pursue turtles or other animals. Strong current is not an attraction to seek beyond your training.
Combining your trip
Combine diving with a quiet island day and a locally arranged village visit. An offshore dive near Kakaban does not establish permission to enter its lake. Snorkelling is another activity with its own conditions; do not assume a dive boat automatically offers a suitable shallow-water programme.
