Diving at Sipadan on a Liveaboard
The MV Celebes Explorer is the only liveaboard that operates around the world-famous Sipadan Island, in the Malaysian state of Sabah on Borneo island. A week-long cruise with this liveaboard comprises 4 full days of diving, with 4 to 5 dives per day depending on weather conditions. This includes dives in the waters off Sipadan, an area that is well known for its pelagic and turtles. The other dive sites are off the islands of Mabul and Kapalai which are good for muck dives, and Si Amil island which is characterised by soft and hard corals, and minuit marine life.
Sipadan Island is one of the most spectacular dive sites in the world, with over 3,000 marine species found in its waters. There are a total of 12 dive sites surrounding the island, the most popular ones are the Hanging Gardens, Turtle Cavern, Barracuda Point and South Point. The island used to house restaurants, accommodation and dive operations. However, the Government of Malaysia put a stop to this due to the vulnerable state of the marine environment, and as of 31st December 2004, all dive resort operators had to move their operations out of the island. The island is now open daily for divers from 6a.m. to 4p.m. No night dives are allowed.
Due to conservation reasons, the number of diving permits issued to dive in Sipadan is limited to 120 per day. This means that oftentime, divers in the area are disappointed when they are unable to obtain permits, especially during busy seasons. However, on a package with MV Celebes Explorer, ones’ diving permit to Sipadan Island is guaranteed. During a typical cruise, the Celebes Explorer Liveaboard will overnight either at Mabul or Si Amil islands before proceeding to the world-famous Sipadan Island.
The facilities on the Celebes Explorer include 8 cabins, fitted with double beds and double decker. All cabins have ensuite bathrooms with hot showers, and are air conditioned. There is a spacious air conditioned common area that accommodates around 18 guests comfortably to dine or as a place to hang out, and a spacious sundeck equipped with sun beds for sunbathing. Other facilities include a camera rack for charging purposes (power supply onboard is 240 V), a changing area for guests to change before and after diving, and a wash area with fresh water hoses. Diving activities are conducted from a chased boat that fits 10 guests at a time. The food served on board is authentic buffet style Asian cuisine. A 24 hour self-service hot beverage corner is available, as well as a constant supply of biscuits and toast. Other items can be purchased, such as soft drinks, beer, wine, mineral water and souvenir t-shirts. Even Internet connection is available, although this comes at a charge.
Twelve crew members and dive guides are always ready to assist in making guests enjoy their time on the liveaboard and while diving. Join the MV Celebes Explorer for one-of-a-kind experience to dive at Sipadan.
Read more about Sipadan Liveaboard on this website.
