Mataking
Mataking Island, one of the hottest dive spot in the Celebes Sea is located just 40 minutes from Semporna, a fishing town at east coast of the state of Sabah, Malaysia.
When the crystal turquoise waters of Mataking beckons, it is an offer that cannot be refused. Suit up and explore the 33 dive sites in and around Mataking and the surrounding islands of Pandanan, Bohayan, Timba-timba and Buhai Dulang. The marine life close to Kalapuan shore is just as magnificent as those found in the deep end; the house reef literally lits up in the night. Diving in Mataking and its neighbouring islands is truly an exhilarating experience. Especially the variety of small creatures will fascinate you. Pygmy Seahorses are not uncommon in Mataking Island. Not only small marine life can be sighted as Mataking’s proximity to the Alice channel, a deep-water channel on the east side of the island, makes the encounter of pelagics possible. Schools of Tuna and Barracudas come close to the reef as protection from bigger predators. Eagle Rays use the up welling currents from the deep-water channel as food source and a comfortable way of travel. The sight of Green and Hawksbill Turtles is also common on Mataking reefs.
Come on over and experience the beauty and wonders Mataking has to offer. Indeed, it is the promised island with majestic treasures for divers, holiday makers, family travellers and honeymooners alike.
Getting There
- 2 hours from Singapore to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, by plane
- 50 min from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau, by plane
- 1 hour 30 min from Tawau to Semporna, by minibus
- 80 min from Semporna to Mataking Island, by speedboat
Resorts and Beaches
There is plenty of resorts to choose from on Mataking Island. Here's our choice!
The Reef Dive Resort
The Reef boasts 8 executive chalets and 24 deluxe rooms in traditional architecture offering simply elegant and exquisite accommodation for up to 70 pax in a serene and cosy set up. The air-conditioned rooms have attached sea view bathrooms and balcony. You can also stay connected with those who are a world away from you as internet services are available at Mataking. The resort also has satellite TV with more than 30 channels for your viewing pleasure. pamper yourself at our Jamu spa and Jacuzzi. The resort offers 3 boat dives a day, unlimited house reef diving and not to be missed excursion to the nearby island including the well known island of Sipadan and Mabul.
Diving
| Great for: | Advanced, Photography |
| Not so great for: | Beginners, Wreck diving, Visibility |
| Highlights: | Blue-ringed octopus, Flamboyant cuttlefish, Frog fish, Pygmy seahorses, Green and hawksbill turtles |
| Depth: | 5 - >40m |
| Visibility: | 20 - 50m |
| Currents: | Gentle |
| Surface Conditions: | Generally calm but can be choppy |
| Water Temperature: | 25 - 29°C |
| Experience Level: | Advanced |
| Number of dive sites: | 33 |
| Recommended Length of stay: | 5-6days |
How much does it cost?
-
SGD849
5D4N Package
Excludes equipment rental, air tickets, taxes
How to register?
Before you visit Gill Divers personally to complete the registration (ideally 1 week before the intended trip), please complete the following forms.
And also bring along
- Two (2) passport sized photos (if you are taking a course)
- Deposit of $150.00 to confirm your placement (Cancellation policy)