The Deboyne Islands were discovered in 1793 by Antoine Bruni d'Entrecasteaux.

He named the islands after Pierre Étienne Bourgeois de Boynes, who was the Marine and Colonial Minister of France at that time.

During World War II, the islands were used as a seaplane outpost by the Imperial Japanese Navy, from 5–12 May 1942.

A small ecotourist resort was recently built at Nivani that would respect the environment, yet provide business opportunities for the population of Panapompom community.

The resort is a success especially with yachtsman, divers and film crews.