Visiting this small rainforest-covered tropical island, rising from a 650 metre abyss in the Celebes Sea, is a must for the committed diver, with unmatched underwater attractions - more fi sh, more turtles, more coral and more diversity. With the variety of pelagics such as Manta, and Eagle Rays, Scalloped Hammerhead, and Whale Sharks, and the abundance of species on offer, seeing 10 turtles in one dive is not uncommon, nor is seeing a school of 300 barracuda. Each dive at Sipadan is a highly anticipated event.

Sipadan's varied marine topography makes it an astonishing place to dive, with caves, walls, canyons, plateaux and overhangs. Green, Hawksbill and Leatherback Turtles are regular inhabitants of Sipadan Island, coming ashore in season to lay their eggs on the island's pristine beaches. Diving is good all year round but the best is mid-February to mid-December, with visibility from 20 to over 60 metres. In order to preserve the island's fragile eco-system, guests are no long able to stay on the island itself but can stay on Kapalai and Mabul, both of which are a mere 15 minute boat ride away.

• Diving at Sipadan Island is by permit only. Currently the Saba Parks government department allows only 120 dives per day. This quota is shared between all local dive operators, on a first come, first served basis.
• Applications for permits are subject to government approval and we apply on your behalf at time of booking. Therfore early booking is recommended.
• Permits cost $12 per day, which may be added to your invoice or collected locally; we will advise at time of booking. Note: Celebes Explorer dives Sipadan four days per week, and the permit fee of $48 will be added to your invoice.
• Please note: although correct at the time of writing, this information is subject to change.

Mabul

Mabul Island is only a 15 minute boat ride from Sipadan and, like Kapalai, is famous for its macro diving and has gained a reputation as one of the best 'muck diving' sites in the world. Mabul is a small, oval shaped island surrounded by sandy beaches and perched on the northwest corner of a larger 200-hectare reef. The reef is on the edge of the continental shelf and the surrounding seabed slopes out to depths of 25-30 metres. Flamboyant Cuttlefi sh, Blue-ringed Octopus, Mimic Octopus and Bobtail Squid are just a few of the numerous types of Cephalopoda to be found on Mabul's reef. Many types of gobies can be found including the Spike fi n, Black Sail-fi n, and Metallic Shrimp Goby. Frogfi sh are everywhere and Giant, Painted, and Clown Frogfi sh are all regularly seen. Moray Eels and Snake Eels of many types can be found, along with almost the whole scorpion fi sh family. It would be quicker to list the species not found at Mabul; crazy critters are in abundance at this magical macro site!

Sipadan Water Village

Sipadan Water Village, on the island of Mabul, offers you the excitement of superb diving along with comfort and relaxation. The village, fringed by beautiful corals, pearl white sands and amazing marine beauty, is the epitome of class and luxury with 39 cottages built on wooden stilts over the Celebes Sea. Each cottage has a private sundeck and deckchairs and include ceiling fan, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities, and private shower with hot and cold water.

Sipadan Mabul Resort

The Sipadan Mabul Resort sits idyllically in four hectares on the southern shore of Mabul. Accommodation is in 46 chalets amongst palm trees, dotted along a white, sandy beach; comprising 22 deluxe chalets and 24 standard rooms. Although the detached chalets are larger than the standard rooms, and closer to the beach, all feature airconditioning, and fans - to keep you cool in this tropical climate, sea facing verandah, and private shower - with hot and cold water.

Mabul diving is excellent and Sipadan Mabul resort offers both recreational and technical diving with free beach dives, Nitrox is also available. The resort also offers a range of non-diving activities, with swimming pool, seakayaking and visits to the nearby fishing village.