Relax and Unwind with a Free & Easy Package Starting from:-
3 days, 2 nights designed for maximum relaxation and enjoyment. Priced at RM1,780 per person for twin sharing room, this package includes:
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Accommodation: Stay in one of our Luxury Villa or Beach Chalet.
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Meals: Enjoy full-board meals at the resort, featuring a variety of delicious local and international cuisines.
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Transfers: Seamless 2-way transfers from Tawau Airport or town, including both land and sea transport.
Family-Friendly and Group Incentives
Traveling with family or friends? Take advantage of the special offers:
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Children: 50% off the package rate for children aged 3 to below 12 years.
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Room Sharing Discount: 5% off the package rate for 3 or 4 adults sharing a chalet.
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Single Occupancy: Solo travelers can enjoy the comfort of their own chalet with an additional 50% surcharge.
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Group Offer: 1 free-of-charge for every 10 paying adults, total 11 pax.
Discover the Underwater Treasures of Reef Dive, Mataking
Mataking Island, located in the Celebes Sea off the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia, is a hidden gem for scuba diving enthusiasts. Known for its pristine waters and rich marine life, Mataking offers an exceptional reef diving experience that captivates both novice and seasoned divers. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes reef diving at Mataking Island a must-visit for divers.
Key Features of Reef Diving at Mataking
1. Vibrant Coral Gardens
Mataking is renowned for its stunning coral gardens. The reefs here are teeming with a variety of hard and soft corals, creating an underwater tapestry of colors and textures. Divers can explore extensive coral formations that serve as habitats for myriad marine species. The health and diversity of the corals are a testament to the island’s well-preserved marine environment.
2. Rich Marine Biodiversity
The waters around Mataking Island are home to an impressive array of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter:
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Tropical Fish: Schools of colorful reef fish such as butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish add to the visual spectacle. The diversity of fish species provides endless fascination for underwater photographers and marine biologists alike.
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Macro Life: Mataking is a paradise for macro enthusiasts. The reef is a haven for smaller, more elusive creatures such as nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, and ghost pipefish. Careful observers can also spot rare critters like the flamboyant cuttlefish and blue-ringed octopus.
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Larger Marine Species: While exploring the reefs, divers may encounter larger species such as green sea turtles, reef sharks, and occasionally, eagle rays gliding gracefully through the water.
3. Clear, Warm Waters
Diving conditions around Mataking are ideal, with water temperatures ranging between 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F). The visibility is typically excellent, often exceeding 30 meters, which allows divers to fully appreciate the beauty of the reefs and the marine life that inhabits them.
4. Diverse Dive Sites
Mataking offers a variety of dive sites that cater to different skill levels. Some of the notable sites include:
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The House Reef: Located just off the shore, this site is perfect for both beginners and night dives. It features a gently sloping reef with abundant marine life and is easily accessible from the beach.
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The Eel Garden: This site is famous for its colonies of garden eels swaying with the current. It’s a fascinating spot for observing these unique creatures in their natural habitat.
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The Turtle Playground: As the name suggests, this site is frequented by sea turtles. Divers can enjoy close encounters with these gentle giants as they feed and rest among the corals.
5. Professional Dive Operators and Facilities
Mataking Island is home to several well-established dive resorts and operators that provide comprehensive services, including guided dives, PADI certification courses, and equipment rental. These operators are known for their professionalism and commitment to safety, ensuring that divers have a memorable and secure experience.
6. Conservation Efforts
Mataking Island is actively involved in marine conservation efforts. The Mataking Island Resort, for instance, has implemented various initiatives to protect the marine environment, such as coral transplantation projects and regular beach clean-ups. These efforts help preserve the island’s natural beauty and biodiversity for future generations.
Tips for Diving at Mataking
- Book Early: Given its popularity, it’s advisable to book your diving trips and accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Respect the Environment: Practice responsible diving by not touching or disturbing marine life and corals. Follow the guidelines provided by your dive operator to minimize your impact on the ecosystem.
- Prepare for Adventure: Bring your underwater camera to capture the stunning marine life. Most dive operators offer equipment rentals, but having your own gear can enhance your diving experience.
Conclusion
Reef diving at Mataking Island, Sabah, is an experience that should be on every diver’s bucket list. The vibrant coral gardens, diverse marine life, and excellent diving conditions make it a top destination for underwater exploration. Whether you are a macro photography enthusiast or simply love the thrill of encountering majestic sea creatures, Mataking’s underwater world offers something for everyone. Dive into the clear, warm waters of Mataking and discover the underwater treasures that await beneath the surface
IMPORTANT
The Reef Dive Resort, Mataking Island, SABAH
Ex-Tawau
Valid Until 31 March 2025