The diving takes place on the islands around Semporna, which includes the idyllic Mabul Island. To get to Semporna you need to arrive overland either from the Tawau airport which is about an hour away (which can be reached by flight from a few major city airports in Malaysia) or overland from within Borneo by bus transfer. Dive sites are reached via boat transfer in less than an hour from the Semporna jetty. The providers will provide water transport from Semporna jetty.

Do I need to go with a guide?

Diving requires for safety reasons that either an instructor or dive master be present during all dives, whether leisure or course.

Do I need to train up?

Most of the time diving is not a strenuous activity, and only requires low levels of fitness particularly in tropical waters. However, you should be a moderately strong swimmer and be of moderate fitness level in case the currents are strong on the day of your dive. If you are looking to obtain a PADI licence, you should be able to swim 200m. On a slightly separate note, please note that it is not advisable to fly for at least 18 hours after completing several dives as this may cause decompression sickness so please do plan your travel accordingly!

What's the best time to go?

The best months to visit are April, May, June, July, August, September, OctoberWe recommend the above period because you would have better visibility.

Any tips for what to do in the area?

Stop by Fat Mom's Restaurant for great local Chinese food while staying in Semporna. If you are looking for a place to stay, one of the best places we've found in Semporna is Aloha Hostel. It has cool Star Wars like pods, which are very cozy and make you feel like you are helming a space ship while you sleep.

Is there anything else I should know?

Please note that all prices exclude Malaysian Tourism tax of RM10 per room per night. This only applies to non-homestay and non-dormitory accommodation. Regarding diving and flying: Please make sure that you leave sufficient time after diving before you take a flight. After a single dive, you should make sure you have at least 18 hours before taking a flight and after a series of dives you should have at least 24 hours.