Sipadan

[ctm]

Hi guys,

Thinking of visiting Sipadan in April 2004. What daily rate should I expect?
I am a novice diver, just got my PADI open water so was not sure Sipadan would be suitable. Was worried about currents around areas like Barracuda point. Any advise appreciated.

Chat M

 

[jiveturkey]

I dived with Borneo Divers and they cost about $150 a night with food, accom, 3 boat dives and unlimited shore dives included.

The currents at Barracuda Point were strong at times but not ripping. If you're comfortable in the water I wouldn't worry too much about it. If not, you might want to get some more experience diving in currents. That said, Sipadan is a pretty easy place to dive. Make sure you have good buoyancy control. The wall drops to 600m.

 

[queentrigger]

i agree with jiveturkey. Diving is not difficult there, but you do need to be an experienced(and advanced) diver to enjoy it (both for day and night dives). its worth your trip, even if they would not let you into the cavern.=-)

 

[jiveturkey]

Actually, Queentrigger reminded me of something: depth. As an OWD you're only certified to 18m and while a lot of good diving can be found there at that depth, there are a lot of times when the group is going deeper. You should at least have your advanced certification.

 

[scubajoe]

jiveturkey once bubbled...
You should at least have your advanced certification.

Do they check?

Joe

 

[jiveturkey]

scubajoe once bubbled...


Do they check?

Joe

Yes, they check your card when you check into the resort. But that's not the reason why I'd recommend an advanced cert.

You shouldn't be following a dm down to 30+ meters for the first time. You should be doing that kind of thing with an instructor. The dms assume you know what you're doing. They certainly won't baby you.

 

[scubajoe]

I figured there was somewhere in the world that checked for an advanced card. I have never been asked for anything other then an OW card or a Nitrox card.

Joe

 

[ctm]

Gee, thanks guys for all the information you provided. Looks like I might have to consider an advanced course to get full benefit from the boat dives at Sipadan. Very much appreciate info on rates at borneo divers.

Terrified about a 600m drop. Thanks for scaring me.

I am thinking of doing an introductry night dive while out there, do any of you know what time they do this at?

Thanks again!!!
Chat M

 

[jiveturkey]

ctm once bubbled...
Terrified about a 600m drop. Thanks for scaring me.

I am thinking of doing an introductry night dive while out there, do any of you know what time they do this at?

Thanks again!!!
Chat M

The drop off sounds scary but it's not really. The night dives are not done with a dm. You just find a buddy and grab a tank. Your shore dives are unlimited so you can go at any time before 9:00. I did a night dive almost everyday I was there. Just find out what time the sun sets and make sure you tell them to put some food aside for you. Another fun option is to go in before dawn so you can be in the water as the sun rises.

Have fun.

 

[scubajoe]

I agree with jiveturkey. Don't worry about the wall. Pay attention to your depth and everything will be fine. Do at least one night dive. I'd bet you could pay a DM to go with you if you don't find a buddy you are comfortable with. Or take a night diving specialty course there or at home before you go.

Joe