Diving Sipadan Island, Staying at Mabul Water Bungalows
A look inside Mabul Water Bungalows, the overwater resort fifteen minutes from Sipadan by boat, from the Bougain Villa's private jacuzzi to its own fish sanctuary.
Sipadan is known to diving enthusiasts around the world as one of the most sought-after diving destinations. Home to thousands of species of fish and coral, it's a natural wonder on the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia.
In the waters around Sipadan you have the chance of encountering green and hawksbill turtles that use the area as a mating ground, along with bumphead parrotfish, Napoleon wrasse, eagle rays, reef sharks and dense schools of barracuda.
Sipadan itself is a small island, formed from living coral that capped itself over an extinct underwater volcano over thousands of years. Since the resorts relocated off the island in 2004 for conservation reasons, almost everyone stays on neighbouring Mabul or Kapalai instead.
Mabul Water Bungalows stands out among the resorts on Mabul Island. Built on stilts fifteen minutes from the main island's shore, it keeps a small number of bungalows and suites rather than a large room count, which makes for a quieter, more private stay. Rooms come with hot showers, air conditioning and the usual comforts you'd expect from a higher-end resort.
The resort also has two standout suites: the Bougain Villa and the Borneo Villa Suite.
The Bougain Villa comes with its own private jacuzzi and a balcony looking out over the ocean toward Mabul Island. It also has a small work area with internet access, for anyone who can't quite leave the office behind.
The Borneo Villa Suite gets similar treatment, with a living room, private balcony and outdoor jacuzzi where you can take in the sound of the surrounding ocean.
There's also a small shop on-site for souvenirs, and a dive school on the property that runs everything from beginner courses through Divemaster training, along with refresher courses for anyone who hasn't been underwater in a while.
The open-plan dining hall serves island cuisine prepared by Mr. Wong, a chef with a background in international hotel kitchens who pays close attention to dietary requirements and allergies.
On the diving side, staff help set up your gear and are on hand when you get back from a dive. Groups wanting more privacy can hire a boat with their own dedicated divemaster.
The resort has its own fish sanctuary just off the jetty, accessible even at night, which makes for an interesting change of pace from the reef dives.
And after a day in the water, the Ka'andaman Spa is there for anyone who wants to work the stiffness out before dinner.
