Downbelow Marine & Wildlife Adventures

Located in Kota Kinabalu, Downbelow Marine & Wildlife Adventures provides a gateway to the marine biodiversity of Sabah, Borneo. The operation is split between a travel centre in Kota Kinabalu and a dedicated dive centre on Gaya Island, allowing for seamless transitions between mainland accommodation and island-based diving.

With over 26 years of experience, the centre has established a reputation for responsible, small-group adventures. Their approach integrates marine protection and community connection into every trip, earning them the PADI Green Star Award for their environmental practices.

The centre was founded by British expatriates Richard, a PADI Platinum Course Director, and Joanne Swann, a PADI Master Scuba Diver Instructor. This leadership provides a high level of expertise for divers looking to progress through the professional ranks.

As a PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Centre (IDC), they are fully equipped to take students from their first breath underwater through to professional instructor qualifications. All instruction and guidance are conducted in English.

The training catalogue is extensive, covering the full spectrum of PADI certifications. Beginners can start with Discover Scuba Diving or the PADI Open Water Diver course, progressing through Advanced Open Water and Rescue Diver training.

For those pursuing a career in diving, the centre is a significant training hub. They offer the PADI Divemaster Course, Instructor Development Courses (IDC), and specialized training such as the PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and Assistant Instructor courses. They also facilitate the PADI Instructor Examination and EFR Instructor courses.

The centre's facilities include professional servicing for dive equipment, specifically offering maintenance and repair for cylinders and Suunto dive computers.

For those staying on the islands, they offer 'Stay & Scuba' packages on Manukan Island, providing a more direct connection to the dive sites.

The reefs of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park are characterised by healthy coral formations that host a variety of reef fish. You can expect to encounter snapper schools and various juvenile reef fish darting through the coral structures.

Macro enthusiasts will find plenty to observe, including several species of frogfish, such as the giant, painted, and clown varieties. The area is also a strong habitat for seahorses (Hippocampus kuda), pipefish, and various species of gobies, including spike-fin and fire gobies.

Other notable residents include the Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), ribbon rays, and various species of octopus. Keep a sharp eye on the reef for scorpionfish, leaf fish, and the occasional flamboyant cuttlefish or mimic octopus.