Advice on diving and acc. in Semporna, Borneo, Malaysia

[mroding]

We are going to Semporna in two weeks to go diving and haven't found many reviews on accommodations and diving schools. We are two open water advanced divers, with about 75 dives to our name, looking for varied diving with a relaxed guide. As for accommodation, we are making a four month backpack trip through Asia, so the cheaper the better, because than we will have money left for more diving.

Who has experience with the dive operators and accommodation in or around Semporna?

 

[OnTheSpot]

Just as an idea, why not have a look at Seaventures Dive Platform or even MV Celebes Explorer?

Seaventures won't cost that much more than a nice hotel and a dive package from Semporna but you will save the two hours travelling time each day and all your meals are included.

 

[mroding]

Hey OnTheSpot,

We've looked at the oilrig before we started our trip and decided it wasn't our thing to be 'stuck' there. We've also done a liveaboard at the similans several weeks ago and climbing back on board isn't on the schedule.

Thanks for the suggestions though!

 

[broadreach]

mroding

Do a search on this board. There are some useful old threads about the subject.

If you're looking for value accommodation in Semporna, Lee's Resthouse is hard to beat:
Lee's Resthouse Semporna - comfortable budget rooms and accommodation for backpackers

Scuba Junkies is probably your best bet for cheap diving. Contact them in advance and try to book spots for the Sipidan boat. permits are limited.

enjoy your trip!

 

[Dreamdivegirl]

Hi, first of all I'll let you know upfront I own a dive business in Kota Kinabalu (it's in my profile). I don't have experience with Dive Operators in Semporna (I've been lucky enough to stay at Resorts near Sipadan). However I can share advice, as a PADI Professional, on areas you should check with the Dive Operators you are considering using in Semporna. All the areas below can be checked with the Dive Operators you are considering by email or online - so can be done in advance of your trip.

Check that the Dive Operators you are condiering are authorised as a Dive Operator with PADI, SSI, SDI (or a recognised Diving Association) - you can ask them if they are an authorised Dive Operator as well as check the web site listing for PADI etc. This hopefully means you'll be guided by qualified Dive Professionals.

Ask them what ratios they use for guided dives i.e. how many certified divers per dive guide. The lower, the better for you. You should also ask for their diving schedule so you can get an idea of the mix of diving you'll get to enjoy.

With diving you generally get what you pay for - so the cheapest isn't always the best. Check that the dive gear is regularly maintained (including cylinders). Check what's included / excluded from your diving trip price - to avoid any surprises.

Generally, ask as many questions as possible via email and go with the Dive Operator who takes the time to answer them (as most Dive Operations welcome customers wanting to know more) and you feel most comfortable with.

Enjoy your diving holiday from Semporna. I'm sure you'll enjoy fantastic diving and have a wonderful time!

 

[InDaWata]

I'd check out Scuba Junkies, especially if youre keen on staying on Mabul. Theyve got the best value accommodations on the island IMO.

Other options are Uncle Changs, and Billabong Scuba. I dont have any personal experience with these two, but I havent heard anything positive about the former.

Its definitely worth it to spend the few extra dollars to stay on Mabul, regardless of which shop you decide to go with!

 

[The Wolf]

I don't know how billabong and uncle chan's became a reputed dive company but its more of a tourist company than a professional diving outfit. Their dm's are not as professional as one would expect.

Trying to be penny wise may not get you the experince you want. Either stay in semporna, and do dives out to sipadan, mabul and kapalai on a daily basis (if you want to save $$) or invest some cash and stay at borneo divers, seaventures or scuba junkies.

And if you have too much cash to waste or you want the complete 5 star treatment, then do Kapalai. Its first rate.

Uncle chan's and billabongs come at the bottom of my list. And if the list was long, at the BOTTOM of the list.

Just my 20 cents.