Sipidan in May for a single...argh!?

[goducks96]

I've been getting into vicariously through this site so I figured I would 'dive in' (ugh...I so just went there) and get some direct advice.
I am going to Malaysia in early May for a root canal (ugh again) and figured I would sneak in some diving around Sipidan. Unfortunately as a single I'm finding that many places are charging 50% extra. Any suggestions on outfits (liveaboard or resort) that don't stick it to the singles? Or thoughts on finding a random scuba buddy for the trip through this site? (safe?) As long as the diving is good and the food edible I'm pretty easy to please...although mid-budget level is preferred.
(Any specific tips on getting there from KL would be appreciated too!)
Any info would be appreciated; I'm planning this and a 3week scubacation around Australia as well so I'm about at my wits end!
cheers!

 

[DevonDiver]

Have you tried Scuba Junkies yet? I don't think they charge a surplus for their accomodation in Semporna, although all the Mabul Resort rooms (except Dorm) do charge extra.

 

[goducks96]

Thank you! It looks like that's not a bad deal...pretty budget!

 

[WeirdunderWaterWorld]

You should try SeaVentures... it's a converted oil rig and great fun!
Seaventures Dive Resort

It's a fantastic friendly place! ;-)

 

[zivva]

Seaventures is also supposed to charge a 50% extra for single accomodation ... but they did not when I get there in November last year and seems not to do so except if they are fully booked and you really want your own room.

Maybe you should check with the operator you'd like to dive with, they may share the same policy about single accomodation ...

Whatever, agree with WeirdunderWaterWorld : Seaventures is a great place + very friendly & pro staff + a lot of fun

 

[instructorinasia]

Hi, I learnt to dive with Scuba Junkie quite a few years ago and they were great! Their managers on Mabul - Rohan and Carys - are lovely people and they offer good rates for single travelers and you also get to dive Mabul as well which is an awesome dive spot! I have heard great things about Seaventures as well and the experience is a little different as well!

 

[DevonDiver]

Seaventures is a level higher in terms of budget, compared to SJ. The dive site under the rig is fantastic, but it is a relatively deep site if you want to really make the most of unlimited diving. I prefered the shallow sites around Mabul Island itself... where you make the most of the shore diving, with shallow (<10m) dives, and critter hunt with your camera.