Diving Window Calculator
Sipadan, Mabul, Layang-Layang, Perhentian, Tioman, Redang — six Malaysian dive sites with six different windows. Pick your site and month to see vis, current, and the jellyfish truth.
Your dive trip
What this solves
"Best time to dive Malaysia" is the wrong question. The right question is "best time to dive this specific site." Peninsular east coast sites close in winter; Sabah sites run year-round but with vis swings; Layang-Layang has a tiny atoll reef window; Sipadan needs months-ahead permits. Generic advice loses on every dimension.
How to read results
- Vis: underwater visibility in metres. >20m excellent, 10-15m workable, <10m poor.
- Current: mild/medium/strong. Affects air consumption and which divers should skip.
- Status: open, peak, off-season (rough but diveable), closed.
Limitations
- Real vis changes daily. The table is monthly average.
- Sipadan permits are by lottery + operator allocation — months ahead of travel.
- Marine park fees (some RM40-100/day) on top of dive operator cost.
- Jellyfish blooms: harmless most days, occasional outbreaks. Full wetsuit minimises risk.
FAQ
How do I get a Sipadan permit?
Book through a Sabah Parks-licensed dive operator (Borneo Divers, Scuba Junkie, etc.). They allocate permits for you. Book 3-6 months ahead for peak months.
Is Layang-Layang accessible year-round?
No. The atoll resort closes Nov-Feb due to rough seas. Charter flights from KK also stop. Open Mar-Oct.
What's the cheapest dive site?
Perhentian and Tioman — fun dives from RM150-200. Sipadan: RM1500+ per day including permit.
Sources
- Sabah Parks — Sipadan permit rules
- Department of Marine Park Malaysia — Peninsular marine park fees
- Local dive operator reports (Borneo Divers, Scuba Junkie SEAsia)