Since getting my PADI scuba diving certificate, I have added a lot of new places to my bucket-list. Sipadan being ranked as one the top ten dive destinations in the world, I knew I had to see it.
Here’s everything you should know about scuba diving in Sipadan.
SIPADAN
Sipadan is known to be home to more than 100 species and more species of corals. Pulau Sipadan can be found off the east coast Sabah (Malaysian Borneo). It formed thousands upon years ago after living corals grew on top a volcano that had long since died. There are many big guys here, including turtles.
Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate with my expectations. Even though I came to see the whale sharks (hammerheads) and whale sharks (whale sharks), all I saw was barracudas, some turtles, and a few small parrotfish.
SIPADAN
The government has relocated all Sipadan resorts to islands around Mabul, Mataking Kapalai, Semporna, and Sepadan to ensure the protection of this amazing marine ecosystem. Only day trips to Sipadan can be made from these neighboring islands.
These are your options to reach the nearest islands to Sipadan.
BY AIR
It is possible to fly into Tawau via either Kaula Lumpur on the mainland or Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, which also has an international airport. It takes 2 hours 45 minutes to fly from Kuala Lumpur, and 50 minutes to fly from Kota Kinabalu.
Malaysia Airlines, Kuala Lumpur. Traveloka had the best deal. Tawau to Semporna takes around an hour and half taxi ride. This port town is closest to Sipadan. If you want to spend time on Mabul, Mataking, or any other island, you will need a boat departing from Semporna. It might take longer. The help desk at your accommodation can provide information on boat times.
BY ROAD
Regular buses operate between Kota Kinabalu (in the direction of Semporna). This is not an option for those with a tight budget, as it takes around 12 hours. This is not an option that’s practical, unless Sandakan is your destination.
SCUBA DIVE IN SIPADAN – BEST TIME
Sipadan offers scuba diving all year long with temperatures between 30-32 degrees. The best season is between April & December, with July & August being the peak months. Having said all that, I was there in August’s first week and it rained 3 days out of 4.
For more information visit the Asia Diving Vacation website.
Sipadan permits limit divers to 120 each day in an effort to preserve the island. Sipadan Island is only accessible to divers between 6AM and 4PM. Sipadan permits cost MYR 1300 (USD300) for one-day. Sipadan divers can get a minimum 2-day Sipadan package from some resorts. Finding a good diving center can be difficult.
Scuba Tiger allowed me to book a package that would allow me to dive for one day in Sipadan as well as three days on the other island, which are also very beautiful. Scuba Tiger had no prior communication with me and instead put me on to Uncle Chang to do my Sipadan dives. They were terrible and made it my worst ever dive day! Their equipment was old, worn and leaked, and their dive master barely spoke English. I had to cancel my very first dive because of their negligence. Despite the poor visibility, my instructor did not keep an eye on me as he lowered and left me far behind. It was the most frightening experience of my life.
SCUBA DIVE IN SIPADAN: HOW MANY DAYS?
If you are lucky enough to have great weather, I would think that 1 day or maximum 2 dives in Sipadan is sufficient considering the price of the permit. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to experience that. In retrospect, it would have been equally detrimental for me to stay an additional day, not only would I risk losing $600. Be sure to pray for every possible weather God before you travel. Two days (6 dives on the other islands) is enough to get the full experience. You should also allow for transit time one night before and two after your dives. You can dive to Sipadan, and other islands in the area, for 5 nights.
WHERE TO STAY, WHILE SCUBA Diving IN SIPADAN
Most dive centers offer a package deal, which includes accommodation and the diving fees. The cost of the equipment is often extra. Many resorts offer dorms as well as fancy chalets. Plan your trip at least 4-5 months before you travel, especially if the high season is approaching. I had just 2 months before my trip and was forced to compromise with anyone who promised me a Sipadan day permit.
BUDGET FOR SCUBA Diving IN SIPADAN
Sipadan dive permits cost MYR 1300 (USD300). There are many resorts that offer luxury chalets. The chalets cost MYR450 (USD110) per person, while the dorms are MYR150 (USD35) per person. Non-Sipadan divers can dive for MYR 35 (USD 85) per 3 dives. A budget of USD750, excluding flights, is sufficient for 5 days.
OTHER TRAVEL TIPS ABOUT SCUBA DIVING AT SIPADAN
Make sure you plan at least six months ahead to avoid disappointment when choosing the best dive operators.
Food is a challenge if you’re vegetarian. Bring snacks and ready-to-eat meals.
Semporna was home to only two currency exchange stores. Both were closed the day I arrived. Keep some local change with you.
Some islands may not have ATMs. It is important to have cash.
You should always have enough bug spray. Biodegradable sunscreen lotions are best for protecting the reefs.
I hope this blog will provide you with enough insight and tips to plan your Sipadan trip. I hope you have a better trip than I had. You can email me with any questions you may have about your Sipadan dive trip.