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Are you tired of the same old dive trips? Looking for something new and exciting to add to your diving bucket list? Look no further than Malaysia liveaboard diving!
This unique experience allows you to explore some of the most pristine dive sites in Southeast Asia while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a floating hotel. Malaysia offers an abundance of diverse marine life, including colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and even sightings of rare sea creatures like whale sharks and hammerhead sharks.
With numerous liveaboards available, you can customize your trip based on your preferences and skill level. Whether you’re a beginner looking for easy dives or an experienced diver seeking deeper depths, Malaysia liveaboard diving has something for everyone.
Learn how to pack for a liveaboard dive journey. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves.
Best Malaysia Liveaboards
Looking for the ultimate diving adventure in Malaysia? Check out the best liveaboards that will take you to some of the most stunning dive sites in the country! Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting out, there are plenty of luxury options and budget choices available.
The following table lists my top picks for Malaysis liveaboards.
| Liveaboard Name | Daily Cost (USD) | Rating |
| MY Amelia | $160 | 8.4 |
| MV Blue Horizon | $180 | 9.0 |
| MV Emperor Asmaa | $150 | 8.2 |
| MY Blue Seas | $200 | 8.9 |
| MY Blue Pearl | $180 | 8.7 |
| SS Thistlegorm | $140 | 7.8 |
| MY Saman Explorer | $155 | 8.5 |
| MY Contessa Mia | $165 | 8.6 |
| MY Blue Fin | $190 | 9.1 |
| MY Obsession | $175 | 8.8 |
From pristine coral reefs to fascinating shipwrecks, you’ll find no shortage of marine life waiting for you beneath the surface. Before embarking on your liveaboard adventure, make sure to pack all necessary dive equipment such as wetsuits, fins, masks, and regulators. While many liveaboards offer rental gear, it’s always better to bring your own if possible.
Additionally, ensure that all safety precautions are taken seriously by both yourself and the crew. This includes wearing proper safety gear such as dive computers and following all guidelines provided during pre-dive briefings. Once on board, sit back and relax as your expert crew takes you to some of the best dive sites Malaysia has to offer.
You may be interested in my other articles about Belize Liveaboard Diving or Phuket Liveaboard Diving.
Some notable locations include Sipadan Island with its stunning underwater topography and diverse marine life; Layang Layang with its impressive wall dives and sightings of hammerhead sharks; and Tioman Island which boasts colorful coral gardens teeming with tropical fish. With so much natural beauty waiting for you below the surface, a Malaysia liveaboard diving trip is an experience not to be missed!
Top 5 Malaysia Dive Sites
You’ll want to make sure you visit these top 5 dive sites when exploring the depths of Malaysia’s stunning underwater world, with one site boasting over 3,000 species of fish alone. Get ready to be amazed by the vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters that surround you in these breathtaking locations.
- Sipadan Island: Known for its majestic wall diving, this island boasts an impressive diversity of marine life including sea turtles, barracudas, and hammerhead sharks. The sheer number of fish swimming around you will leave you feeling like you’re in a real-life aquarium.
- Mabul Island: Famous for its macro diving opportunities, Mabul Island is home to rare critters such as flamboyant cuttlefish and blue-ringed octopuses. This tiny island is also surrounded by breathtaking coral reefs that are perfect for snorkeling.
- Layang Layang: Located in the middle of the South China Sea, Layang Layang offers some of the best visibility in Malaysia with a chance to spot pelagic species such as manta rays and whale sharks. The deep blue waters surrounding this remote atoll offer an unforgettable experience for advanced divers.
Don’t miss out on exploring two more incredible dive sites while visiting Malaysia:
- Tioman Island: A popular destination due to its accessibility from Kuala Lumpur, Tioman Island has something for everyone – from shallow coral gardens teeming with colorful reef fish to deeper sites where larger creatures such as eagle rays and blacktip reef sharks can be seen.
- Redang Island: With clear water visibility up to 30 meters or more, Redang Island has plenty of opportunities for both novice and experienced divers alike. Keep your eyes peeled for schools of barracudas and trevallies swimming amongst stunning coral formations.
Embark on a journey unlike any other as you explore these five must-visit dive sites in Malaysia’s underwater world. With so much to see and discover, you’ll be sure to come back for more!
Diving in Malaysia
If you’re planning to go diving in Malaysia, it’s important to know the best time to go. Generally, the dry season from March to September is considered the ideal time for diving.
Getting there is easy with various airports and transportation options available. Once you arrive, expect crystal clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs waiting to be explored.
Best time for diving
The best time to go diving in Malaysia is during the dry season, which typically runs from March to October. The monsoon seasons make diving difficult and dangerous during the rest of the year.
During the dry season, you can expect water temperatures ranging from 27°C to 30°C with good underwater visibility, making it easier to spot a variety of marine life such as sharks, rays, turtles, and colorful tropical fish.
If you’re planning a liveaboard diving trip in Malaysia during the dry season, make sure you bring appropriate diving equipment that will keep you comfortable and safe throughout your dives. This includes wetsuits or rash guards for protection against stinging jellyfish or sunburns, dive computers for monitoring your depth and air consumption, and underwater cameras to capture all of those amazing moments.
With so much to see beneath the surface of Malaysia’s waters during this prime diving season, you won’t want to miss a thing!
How to get there
To reach the best diving spots in Malaysia, hop on a flight to Kuala Lumpur and then take a domestic flight or bus to the coastal city of Kota Kinabalu. Once you’ve arrived, there are several transportation options available to get you to your liveaboard diving adventure.
If you prefer convenience, airport transfers can be arranged by your chosen operator beforehand. Alternatively, local taxis and private cars are also available for hire.
It’s important to note that visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin. Most nationalities can enter Malaysia without a visa for up to 90 days, while others may need to apply for one prior to arrival.
As for nearby accommodations, there are plenty of options in Kota Kinabalu ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. It’s recommended that you book in advance, especially during peak season, so as not to encounter any difficulties during your stay.
With all these preparations taken care of, get ready for an unforgettable liveaboard diving experience in Malaysia!
What to expect
Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of vibrant marine life and breathtaking underwater landscapes on your upcoming adventure. Here are a few things you can expect when going on a Malaysia liveaboard diving trip:
- Underwater wildlife: Malaysia is home to some of the most diverse marine life in the world, from colorful corals to fish of all shapes and sizes. Get ready for an up-close encounter with turtles, sharks, rays, and even whale sharks!
- Equipment rental: If you don’t have your own diving equipment, don’t worry! Most liveaboards offer rental gear for an extra fee.
- Safety precautions: As with any water activity, safety should always be a top priority. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by your dive master or instructor and always check your equipment before entering the water.
Additionally, if you’re interested in capturing some amazing photos of your underwater adventures, consider bringing or renting a camera specifically designed for diving. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try out night diving to see an entirely different side of the underwater world! You’ll find these conditions to similar to those onboard a Maldives liveaboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to go liveaboard diving in Malaysia?
To have the ultimate diving experience, plan your trip when the weather is dry and visibility is high. Dive into the best dive sites with top-notch dive equipment and stay in luxurious accommodation options with tailored dive packages.
Are there any restrictions on the number of dives that can be done per day?
When planning your liveaboard diving trip, it’s important to consider dive time restrictions and safety protocols. Make sure you have the proper equipment and that dive site selection and planning techniques are carefully considered.
What kind of marine life can be seen while diving in Malaysia?
You’ll be captivated by Malaysia’s vibrant marine life. Spot jellyfish blooms, explore colorful coral reefs and have unforgettable whale shark encounters. Don’t miss night diving excursions where you may encounter elusive octopuses.
Are there any specific certifications needed for diving in Malaysia?
Before diving in Malaysia, you’ll need to ensure you have the correct diving certification. The country has specific requirements for scuba training and dive safety, including various certification types such as PADI or SSI.
What is the typical group size on a Malaysia liveaboard diving trip?
When it comes to liveaboard diving, group dynamics play a big role. You’ll want to consider things like equipment rental, dive safety, meal options, and onboard entertainment. The typical group size varies depending on the trip, but expect a fun and social atmosphere.
Conclusion
So there you have it, you’ve just completed an epic dive trip in Malaysia! You’re probably feeling pretty good about yourself, having explored some of the world’s best dive sites and seen some incredible marine life.
But hold on a second… did you actually think that was all there is to it? Oh no my friend, the ocean has a way of reminding us how small we really are.
Just when you thought you had seen it all, there’s always something new waiting to surprise and humble you. So go ahead and bask in your diving glory for now, but don’t forget that there’s always more out there to discover.
Happy diving!
