Mabul Island travel guide

Located between Semporna and Sipadan, Mabul is considerably larger than Sipadan and is partly home to Bajau fishermen who live in traditional palm-thatched houses. In contrast to Sipadan’s untouched forest, the island is predominantly planted with coconut trees. It has already become known as the world’s best muck diving, so called because of the silt-filled waters and poor visibility (usually around 12 m). The island is surrounded by gentle sloping reefs with depths from 3-35 m and a wall housing numerous species of hard corals. Since the closure of Sipadan’s luxury resorts, several companies have moved their accommodation to Mabul, only 20 minutes away by fast boat. Affordable backpacker accommodation is also available. A return boat trip from Semporna costs from US$12.