Sipadan is an internationally famous dive site surrounded by the Sulawesi Sea. The geographic position of Sipadan at the Indo-Pacific Basin (the centre of the richest marine habitat in the world) makes it a paradise for divers. The seascape is decorated with huge gorgonian sea fans, barrel sponges and gigantic soft tree corals. Steep walls form a stunning backdrop while pelagic species such as sharks and turtles swim gracefully.
Further away, the Turtle Cavern contains skeletons of turtles that were lost in the tunnels. At Barracuda Point, divers can have exciting encounters with schools of barracuda. To preserve the delicate ecosystem, accommodation is only provided at the neighbbouring islands of Mabul and Kapalai. Tours must be pre-arranged.
The nearest airport to Sipadan is Tawau. From Tawau, take an hour’s drive to Semporna before proceeding with a 40-minute speedboat ride to the island.