Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
likely be required to do a non-Sipadan intro dive unless you are a Divemaster who has
logged a dive in the last six months. Permits to Sipadan are issued by day (and not by
dive) so make sure you are getting at least three dives in your package.
A three-dive day trip costs between RM250 and RM500 (some operators include park
fees, others do not - make sure to ask), and equipment rental (full gear) comes to about
RM50 or RM60 per day. Cameras (around RM100 per day) and dive computers (around
RM80 per day) are also available for rent at most dive centres. Top-end resorts on Mabul
and Kapalai offer all- inclusive package holidays (plus a fee for equipment rental).
Although most of the diving in the area is 'fun diving', Open Water certifications are
available, and advanced coursework is popular for those wanting to take things to the next
level. The only problem with getting your Open Water certification here is that all other
dive sites may pale in comparison! Diving at Sipadan is geared towards divers with an
Advanced Open Water certificate (currents and thermoclines can be strong), but Open
Water divers should not have any problems (they just can't go as deep as advanced
divers). A three-day Open Water course will set you back at least RM950. Advanced
Open Water courses (two days) cost the same, and Divemaster certification runs for
around RM2500.
Several dive operators are based at their respective resorts, while others have shopfronts
and offices in Semporna and/or KK. Please note we have listed the following alphabetic-
ally, not in order of preference - we simply didn't have the time to go diving with every
outfitter in the islands. No matter where your desired operator is located, it is
highly
re-
commended you contact them in advance. The following dive operators are among the
growing list of companies in the area:
Big John Scuba
(
www.smiffystravels.com/bjsuba2.htm
)
'Big John' is a local guy who loves Sabah, Sem-
porna and diving. He specialises in macro photography and muck diving and while he is
an instructor, he separates his students from his diving groups. Has an office by the
Dragon Inn.
DIVING
Billabong Scuba
( 089-781866;
www.billabongscuba.com
; Lot 28, Block E, Semporna Seafront)
Ac-
commodation can be arranged at a rickety 'homestay' on Mabul.
DIVING
