News
Scuba Diving in Malaysia
In her debut article for Scubaverse, Ivana Craft takes a look at some of the best diving that Malaysia has to offer
Located in South East Asia, Malaysia consists of several tropical islands that are the very definition of biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. To fully appreciate everything Malaysia has to offer, the true nature lover and thrill seeker has no choice but to venture underwater. The warm and bountiful waters of Malaysia have long been highly coveted diving sites by professional and amateur divers alike. Hundreds of dive sites are scattered across the islands. They are as diverse as they are stunning, with sites to match any diving preference and level of diving expertise. From wall and cavern dives to wreck dives and vast coral gardens, you are guaranteed to have the diving experience of a lifetime. Over three thousand species of marine life call these waters home, including some of the most immaculate and vast coral formations in the world. When in Malaysia, be sure to visit at least one of these sites.
Sugar Wreck, Perhentian Islands
Of all the diveable wreck sites around Malaysia, the Sugar Wreck is among the more recent. This huge sugar hauler was sunk to a depth of 100 feet during a vicious monsoon in 2000 near the Perhenian Islands. The sea has completely taken over this vessel, as it is now covered in shells, coral formations and a veritable cornucopia of flora and fauna. Small fish find refuge in the mazelike interior of the wreck, while predators circle the perimeter on the lookout for a quick snack. A large school of scorpionfish have made the wreck their home, and jacks, snapper and trevally are never far away. Blue spotted stingrays and bamboo sharks lurk in the back of the wreck, under the sugar freighter’s massive cargo doors.
Sipadan Jetty/Drop-off
Sipadan has a special place in the geographic makeup of Malaysia, as it is the country’s only oceanic island. The foundation of the island is an extinct volcano that, over thousands of years, has been completely overgrown with living corals. The corals provide a density and diversity of marine life that is hard to match anywhere in the world. The most popular and accessible dive site on the island is called the Drop-off. The site got its name from the sheer 600 foot drop into deep ocean that is almost completely vertical. Perfect for wall dives, divers can feast their eyes on lush and ubiquitous hard and soft corals that decorate the wall, and the many thousands of species that call this coral home. Turtles are common in the waters around Sipadan, as both hawksbill and green turtles mate and nest in the area. Enormous schools of barracuda, mackerel and batfish form tornados of shining flesh, while majestic white tip reef sharks and leopard sharks make up the top of the food chain.
Turtle Cavern, Sipadan
The Turtle Cavern, also known as the Turtle Tomb, is a site that is truly unique in the world, and can only be experienced in Malaysia. The Cavern is in fact a sprawling complex of caves that is littered with thousands of ghostly turtle skeletons. For reasons that are still unclear to scientists, turtles from all around the area flock to this location to die, and make for a breathtaking, if a little macabre sight. It is not all skeletons, however, as the caves are home to a thriving green sea turtle population. This site requires an experienced guide, as there are many dead ends in the mazelike cave complex, and the corridors may be quite claustrophobic to the unprepared. Air pockets are a huge attraction, enabling divers to surface, take off their breathing apparatus and talk to their diving companions, whilst still in the caves.
Pulau Sibuan, Semporna
Pulau Sibuan seems like a place that time forgot. There is almost no modern infrastructure on this lush island, and the population consists of a mere handful of Bajau families; a tribe of seafaring nomads. There are no public facilities or resorts on the island, but what it does possess in abundance are some of the best muck diving sites in the world. Some of the weirdest and most elusive creatures can be seen here in large numbers, from the alien like nudibranches, pygmy seahorses and frogfish to the more common but no less stunning lionfish, scorpionfish and lionfish. Most dive sites around Semporna are well suited to inexperienced divers. However, the monsoon season brings with it lowered visibility and strong currents, so special care should be taken during this time.
Ho Ho Ho! Vobster Quay’s recording-breaking charity Santa diving event returns on Sunday 15th December 2024 for another round of festive fundraising frivolities. Run in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes, this ever-popular annual fundraising event aims to raise sack-loads of cash for these two very deserving charities.
Divers of all levels are invited to grab their Santa outfits – and as much festive cheer as they can muster – and head down to Vobster Quay near Mells, Somerset for a mass sponsored Santa dive in aid of charity. In previous years, the event has attracted divers from the far corners of the UK to join in the festive merriment for a final festive dive before the Christmas and New Year break. Back in 2015, the event smashed the world record for the most Santa divers with 188 divers taking to the waters donning their festive finery – a record that remains unbeaten to this day!
Vobster Santas isn’t just about setting records – it’s also about raising some serious cash for charity. Vobster Quay encourages all divers to get into the spirit of the season to raise much-needed funds for two very deserving charities – the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes.
Through individual sponsorship and online donations, divers can invite their friends, family and work colleagues to sponsor them to plunge into the balmy waters of Vobster Quay dressed in full festive finery. Since the very first Santa dive in 2007, the event has raised over £52,000 for charity. “It’s been over 17 years since the very first charity Santa dive took place at Vobster Quay and every year the event just keeps getting bigger and better” enthused Vobster Quay owner, Amy Stanton.
“Vobster Santas is a great way for divers to say a massive thank you to the both the RNLI and Help For Heroes – two very deserving charities close to our hearts. We’re immensely proud of all that Vobster Santas has achieved and hope that even more divers will join this year’s event on Sunday 15th December. I’m confident that we can make Vobster Santas 2024 the biggest yet!”.
Divers wishing to participate can get involved by simply registering their attendance at
www.vobster.com/event-vobstersantas.php.
Blogs
Dive into Adventure at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Diving Destination in the Maldives
Tucked away in the remote northern Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a premier destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With over 30 dive sites to explore, divers of all levels can witness the unique and mesmerising beauty of the underwater world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the sport, Hideaway offers an exceptional diving adventure that is not to be missed.
Explore the Beauty Beneath the Surface
Hideaway is perfectly situated near some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives. The dive school and team at Hideaway offer a very personalised experience to ensure each diver gets an interactive, immersive experience.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Unique dive spots such as Theefaridhoo Thila (Heaven and Hell) as one of the 50 best dive sites in the whole of the Maldives, known for its beautiful soft coral gardens.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
As the resort is located next to a channel which gives guests surprise visits from eagle rays, manta rays, guitar sharks and more.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
One of the standout features of diving in the Haa Alifu Atoll is the abundance of rare and exotic marine species. The area is known for sightings of whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, and a variety of colorful reef fish. Diving at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers a rare opportunity to encounter these creatures in their natural habitat, creating lifelong memories for guests.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Whether you’re exploring deep coral gardens, dramatic overhangs, or vibrant reef walls, each dive offers something new and exciting. The visibility in the Maldives is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, making it ideal for both underwater photography and general exploration.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Diving for All Levels
At Hideaway, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the thrill of diving. That’s why we cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals. Our professional dive center, led by expert instructors, offers a range of courses and guided dives. If you’re new to diving, you can start with an introductory course that will teach you the basics of scuba diving in a safe and controlled environment.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
For more experienced divers, we offer advanced dive courses and guided excursions to some of the more challenging dive sites. Our instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about the local marine life, ensuring that every dive is not only safe but also informative and enjoyable.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Exclusive Diving Offer
To make your stay even more unforgettable, Hideaway is offering an exclusive diving package designed to enhance your experience both above and below the water. When you book a minimum 7-night stay, you’ll receive:
- 35% discount on room rates.
- Complimentary diving: 3 dives per person for 2 guests, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Maldives underwater world.
- Free meal plan upgrade: enjoy a complimentary upgrade from Bed & Breakfast to Half Board, or from Half Board to Full Board. Guests who prefer the White Platinum Plan (WPP) can avail it at a discounted rate.
This incredible offer provides the perfect opportunity to experience world-class diving while enjoying all the luxury and comfort that Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is known for.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Combinable Offers for Even More Value
This diving offer can also be combined with our Anniversary and Honeymoon offers, allowing you to create the perfect celebration package. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this offer ensures that you can enjoy the best of both worlds – luxurious accommodations and unforgettable diving adventures.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Terms & Conditions
- This offer is available exclusively for bookings made through the official Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa website using a specific booking code.
- The offer cannot be combined with other promotions available on the website or through other channels, nor can it be redeemed for cash.
- All dives are subject to weather conditions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
- Black-out dates: This offer is not available from 24th December 2024 to 9th January 2025.
To book this exquisite offer, use the Promo Code: SCUBA24FD
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Hideaway is not just a resort; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking peace, adventure, and luxury. With spacious villas, private pools, and world-class dining options, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect holiday. From tennis, golf, gym, cycling to the exquisite underwater activities, unique dining options, Hideaway has something for everyone. And for diving enthusiasts, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Our dive center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear, ensuring that every dive is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. Our instructors are passionate about the underwater world and are eager to share their knowledge with you, whether it’s your first dive or your 100th.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
The Ultimate Dive Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving holiday in the Maldives, look no further than Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa. With over 30 dive sites, unique marine life, and exclusive offers, we provide the ultimate underwater experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking adventure, our diving package offers exceptional value and incredible memories.
Book now through our official website to take advantage of this exclusive offer and prepare for the dive adventure of a lifetime.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Call: +960 650-1515
Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
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