RD027 REGAL BRO-09 P72-99 AW 6/8/08 12:26 Page 76
BORNEO
REGALDIVE
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Diving in Borneo
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g66g111g114g110g101g111 Borneo
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Diving heaven - the spectacular
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marine cliffs of Sipadang66g111g114
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Over the past 20 years, Palau Sipadan has
developed into one of Southeast Asia’s premier
diving destinations and one of the most
important marine habitats in the world. This
stunning island, which is justifiably on most
divers’ wish lists, is home to a myriad of marine
life that has few equals anywhere.
DIVING ON SIPADAN ISLAND
Sipadan island, located off the coast of Borneo,
marks the pinnacle of a maritime mountain, which
drops vertically 700m into the Celebes Sea. The
island is primarily recognised for its resident
population of green turtles, which accompany
divers on most dives. They nest on the island from
July to October. Huge schools of jacks and
barracuda circle the island feeding on the many
species of reef fish that inhabit the drop off.
Further out, a variety of shark species and pelagics
are commonly found. White reef and grey sharks
are encountered in large numbers and provide an
exhilarating spectacle as they come into feed at the
end of the day. Scalloped hammerheads are
occasionally encountered in deeper water, whilst
eagle and manta rays are all periodically seen near
the surface.
On the reef itself, minute shrimp and rare
nudibranchs hide amongst the sea fans and
gorgonians. Large sponges grow into the gullies
that cut into the underwater cliff, which in turn
provides cover for great groups of lionfish.
DIVING ON MABUL ISLAND
Since the beginning of 2005, it has been
prohibited to stay overnight on Sipadan.
Regaldive guests stay on Mabul Island, a short
boat ride away and a well-known diving
destination in its own right. Mabul offers an
entirely different type of diving.
The island sits on the edge of the continental
shelf, with the seabed gently shelving away from
the beach. The rich silt laden waters are an
incredibly rich habitat of unique macro life and
offer some of the best ‘muck diving’ in the world.
'Muck diving', a recently coined expression,
describes the observation of these many strange
and rare creatures at close quarters . As this is a
relatively new area of research, marine biologists
are still discovering and documenting new species,
many first being encountered by recreational
Staying on Mabul Island
divers. Visibility is typically limited but you are
rewarded with a completely original experience.
Divers looking for a relaxed, low-key resort will
find this an ideal base to explore the dive sites
of Mabul, Sipadan & Kapalai. This island is also
ideal for relaxing on quiet sandy beaches.
Mabul Island is reached by flying into Kota
Kinabalu, followed by an internal flight and
ground transfer. The boat crossing to Mabul
Island then takes about 45 minutes.
Extensions to visit Sepilok, the Sukau River
and Mount Kinabalu can be organised after
your stay on Mabul.
76 q
www.regaldive.co.uk
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