Semporna: Sipadan World-Class Dives Permit with 3 Dives
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Sipadan Island, Malaysia's sole oceanic volcanic atoll, has one of the world's most diversified marine habitats. Despite being called to as "an untouched piece of art" by Jacques Cousteau, exploring this underwater wonderland requires careful planning and understanding. This expedition covers all equipment and gear, a permit cost, two different Sipadan dives site, and one dive on another island, total 3 dives. It discusses the several reasons why it makes sense to utilise professional diving tours while visiting Sipadan.
The permit is technically granted with a very strict relocation around few permits per day to one tour operator, hence each tour operator has its fixed number of enrolments, and the tour will be moved according to the quota available upon confirmation, with minimum advance open water certificate, and no date changes or cancellations permitted. War = Permits. Not tour no dive. They battle for permit. All you have to do is pay, we take care the rest.
Available options
Semporna: Sipadan Scuba Diving Adventure Permit with 3 Dives
What's included
2 dives at Sipadan and 1 dive on another island
Local lunchboxes with bottle water
Wetsuits, gears, mask, dive coms, snorkel, fins, BCD regulator, gauge & cylinder
Guided dives approved by government
Dock taxes, jetty fees, and local taxes.
Registration sipadan diving permit and other relevant
3 oxygen tanks
Boat transfer & instructor
What's not included
The name and date of this tour cannot be changed
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Personal expenses or itinerary
Diving camera gears
Available languages
Guide guide
MS
EN
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or no-show.
All participants will be required to complete a health questionnaire prior to diving.
This requires advance confirmation, subject to availability; once confirmation, no changes date or refund allowed.
This activity is only for certified divers (Minimum Advance Open Water).
Because the quotas for this product are extremely restricted and subject to local government authorisation, no refunds, name changes or dates are permitted.
The itinerary may be modified due to bad weather, governments regulation, and sea conditions.
All divers must present proof of a minimum level of advance water diver certification on the day of the activity, tour operators are not liable for those who fail to bring or proof it.
Meeting point
Please go over the maps known as jetty pelancongan semporna as indicated prior to the start of the tour; prior to that, we need your personal details such as your full
name, nationality, passport number, date of birth each divers. If any changes, we will notify you in advance.
About Semporna
Semporna is a coastal town in Sabah, Malaysia, known as the gateway to the stunning islands of the Celebes Sea. It's a haven for divers and nature enthusiasts, offering some of the best diving spots in the world, including the world-famous Tun Sakaran Marine Park and the famed Mabul Island. The town itself is a vibrant mix of cultures, with a rich history and a laid-back atmosphere.
Top Attractions
Tun Sakaran Marine Park
A protected marine park featuring stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and pristine beaches. It's a paradise for divers and snorkelers.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive (depending on tour packages)
Mabul Island
A small island known for its shallow reefs, muck diving, and the famous Mabul Water Bungalows. It's a popular spot for divers and those looking for a relaxing island getaway.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive (depending on tour packages)
Mataking Island
A beautiful island with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. It's known for its luxury resorts and tranquil atmosphere.
Nature
Half day to full day
Expensive (due to luxury resorts and exclusive tours)
Sipadan Island
One of the world's top diving destinations, Sipadan Island is famous for its incredible marine biodiversity, including large schools of barracuda, turtles, and sharks. It's a must-visit for serious divers.
Nature
Full day
Expensive (due to limited permits and exclusive tours)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ikan Bakar
Grilled fish, often served with spicy sambal sauce, rice, and vegetables. The fish is usually fresh and locally caught.
Main Course
Contains fish, gluten-free if no soy sauce is used
Laksa
A spicy noodle soup with a rich, flavorful broth, typically made with seafood or chicken. It's a popular dish in Sabah and a must-try for visitors.
Main Course
Contains seafood or chicken, gluten-free if noodles are rice-based
Nasi Lemak
Coconut milk-infused rice served with spicy sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and boiled eggs. It's a popular breakfast dish but can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Main Course
Contains fish, gluten-free if no soy sauce is used
Satay
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with peanut sauce. Common meats include chicken, beef, and pork, but seafood versions are also available.
Snack
Contains meat or seafood, gluten-free if no soy sauce is used
Popular Activities
Diving
Snorkeling
Island hopping
Kayaking
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Resort hopping
Visiting local markets
Best Time to Visit
March to October (Dry season)
This is the best time to visit Semporna for diving and island hopping. The weather is dry, and the seas are calm, making it ideal for water activities.
24°C to 32°C
75°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Malay
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese dialects (e.g., Hokkien, Cantonese), Local indigenous languages
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Semporna is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local community. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and transport services
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Tawau Airport • 100 km (62 miles) from Semporna
By bus
Semporna Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are available but not very extensive. They are affordable and connect the town to some of the surrounding areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Jetty Area
Beachfront
Day trips
Tun Sakaran Marine Park
Boat ride from Semporna • Half day to full day
A protected marine park featuring stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and pristine beaches. It's a paradise for divers and snorkelers.
Mabul Island
Boat ride from Semporna • Half day to full day
A small island known for its shallow reefs, muck diving, and the famous Mabul Water Bungalows. It's a popular spot for divers and those looking for a relaxing island getaway.
Mataking Island
Boat ride from Semporna • Half day to full day
A beautiful island with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. It's known for its luxury resorts and tranquil atmosphere.
Festivals
Kaamatan Harvest Festival • May to June (dates vary each year)
Hari Raya Aidilfitri • Varies each year (depends on the lunar calendar)
Chinese New Year • January or February (dates vary each year)
Pro tips
- Book your diving and island hopping tours well in advance, especially during peak season, as they can fill up quickly
- Bring your own snorkeling gear if you have specific preferences, as rental equipment may be limited or of lower quality
- Pack light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen, as the tropical climate can be hot and humid
- Learn some basic Malay phrases to enhance your cultural experience and interact with locals
- Respect the marine environment by following responsible diving and snorkeling practices, and avoid touching or damaging coral reefs
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
