Shore Diving

There is only a limited number of shore dives available here as most people visit the islands on full day trips and only return to Semporna in the very late afternoon. As a result there is very little demand for shore dives.

Diving Semporna, Credit

Boat Diving

Almost all dives conducted here are boat dives. The type of boats used almost exclusively used are custom built speed boats with powerful outboard engines that typically can accommodate 12 divers incl. tanks and equipment. Most dive sites can be reached within 30min to 60min depending on sea conditions. During the boat ride you’ll be passing some local water villages before reaching deeper water where dolphins can occasionally be spotted. There are 2 smaller ship wrecks around that offer limited penetration opportunities, but the vast majority of dives are drift dives along coral reefs that slope from 5m to more than 60m. As there are more than 20 islands and reefs that can be visited, with each of them offering between 5 to 15 dive sites, there is something interesting for every experience level from beginner level to pro level and also for tec divers.

Dive with Turtle, Semporna, Credit

How to Get There

The best way to get to Borneo is via Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu to Tawau, the closest airport and gateway to Semporna. There are currently 10-12 daily flights operated by Malaysian Airlines, AirAsia and Malindo to Tawau. From Tawau airport it is a drive of ~90min to Semporna. Taxis operate all day from Tawau airport to Semporna but most tour operator offer a shuttle bus pick up service that will be a lot more comfortable and safer.

Semporna, Malaysia, Credit

Semporna can also be reached by long distance buses from Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan with departures twice a day, in the early morning and again in the early evening.

Where to Eat & Drink

While there are plenty of restaurants all over town the most popular area to eat is along the seafront strip where you will find a wide range of local Malaysian, Chinese and western food. The local night life is somewhat more quiet but there are several bars offering cold beer and good music, and live football on weekends. There are also several karaoke joints for the more adventurous.

Coconut Trees, Credit

Other Activities

Semporna is largely used as a base for local diving trips and liveaboards departing for Sipadan and surrounding islands. Given that, the town essentially revolves around diving. There is an afternoon river cruise that is getting fairly popular. On this cruise, you may get lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the extremely rare Proboscis Monkey.  You may also climb to the top of the “Skull Hill” from where you’ve got a very good view of the islands around, and there is a golf course located within a plantation about 45min by car from Semporna.

Kids Playing, Credit

Elephant Trekking & Abuse

On a general note, while in Asia, please do not support Elephant abuse by riding Elephants or supporting Elephant performance.

• The 'training' Elephants go through to become a part of the tourism industry involves cruel physical and mental abuse over long periods of time starting as a calf
• Asian Elephant's spines cannot support the weight of people. Carrying people on their backs all day often leads to permanent spinal injuries.
• That said, there is responsible Elephant tourism to be found in Asia, a good rule to remember is that if a tourist outfit offers anything other than getting to spend time with elephants, it is not friendly to them.
• Remember; any outfit that offers riding, circuses or paintings it basically means the Elephants have undergone horrific abuse in order to get there

You can help these magnificent animals by making your travel companions aware of what lies behind this industry; the main problem is a lack of awareness.

Dive Report is committed to raising awareness to the abuse suffered by Elephants used in the tourist industry. If you want to know more you can find out more here, here, here and here. Also see a PETA documentary video here.

Tips

If locals approach you in the street offering you a real cheap trip to the islands do not follow them – this is most likely a scam and can turn out to be dangerous. Book your trip online in advance, or walk into a an office of a proper tour/ dive operator.      

Sailing, Credit