Borneo Speedy Dive & Tour Sdn Bhd

Located in Semporna, Sabah, Borneo Speedy Dive operates in one of the most significant marine regions on the planet. The coral reefs surrounding the Semporna archipelago are recognised globally for their biodiversity, offering everything from deep walls to intricate macro habitats.

The centre has been operating since 2009, providing a gateway to the waters of the Celebes Sea. Whether you are looking to complete your initial certification or are pursuing a professional career as a Divemaster or Instructor, the facility is positioned to handle the logistical requirements of the region.

As a PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Center (IDC), the facility is equipped to train the next generation of divers and professionals. The team includes multilingual instructors and Divemasters capable of guiding you through the diverse underwater landscapes of the Semporna Marine Park.

Instruction is available in English, Malay, Chinese, Tagalog, Bajau, and Suluk. This multilingual approach ensures clear communication during both classroom sessions and on-site briefings, which is essential when navigating the currents of the local drift dives.

The course catalogue is extensive, covering the entire PADI progression. Beginners can start with Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) or the Open Water Diver course, with Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver following as the next logical steps.

For those looking to specialise, the centre offers numerous PADI specialties including Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, Drift Diver, and Peak Performance Buoyancy. They also provide training in Underwater Navigator, Underwater Photographer, and Search & Recovery Diver.

As an IDC, the centre is a professional training hub, offering Divemaster, Assistant Instructor, and Instructor courses. Specialist training is also available through the Equipment Specialist and Emergency First Response (EFR) programmes.

The centre utilises fibre speedboats for island transfers and dive trips. These vessels are equipped with twin engines, ranging from 80 hp to 500 hp configurations, ensuring reliable transit to the various islands and reefs.

Daily departures are scheduled for 8:00 am, with a return from the islands around 4:00 pm. For those joining a full-day trip, a packed lunch and drinking water are provided on board, and all passengers are covered by boat passenger transit insurance.

For divers preferring to bring their own kit, the centre offers full equipment hire. This includes fins, masks, snorkels, and wetsuits, with both half-suits and full-suits available.

Nitrox is available for divers looking to extend their bottom time. The centre also provides the option to hire dive computers and power masks for those who do not wish to carry their own.

The marine life in this region is defined by its incredible variety. On the deeper walls and reefs, you will encounter large pelagics and schooling fish, including barracuda, trevally, tuna, and rainbow runners. Whitetip reef sharks and bamboo sharks are frequently seen patrolling the reefs, while turtles and stingrays are common residents of the sandy patches.

Macro life is a significant draw, particularly around Mabul and Kapalai. Divers can find a vast array of rare creatures such as flamboyant cuttlefish, mimic octopus, blue-ringed octopus, and bobtail squids. The reefs are also home to various species of frogfish, including clown and painted varieties, as well as harlequin shrimp, boxer crabs, and pygmy seahorses.

The seafloor is a vibrant tapestry of hard and soft corals, including gorgonians and large coral trout. You will also find a high concentration of nudibranchs, mantis shrimp, and various species of gobies and scorpionfish hiding within the reef structure.

Diving in the Semporna Marine Park is possible year-round. The region is known for its diverse habitats, ranging from shallow reef flats to steep walls that descend into the deep channel.

Local sites vary in character; some offer sheltered reef environments, while others, particularly around Sipadan, are known for drift diving where you may encounter currents. Divers should always check with their guide regarding the specific conditions for the day's chosen sites.