CE9 Sipadan Liveaboard

MV Celebes Explorer: Sabah’s Premier PADI Liveaboard Experience

Introduction

The MV Celebes Explorer offers an unparalleled diving experience in one of the world’s most renowned marine ecosystems, Sipadan Island, located off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia. As the only authorized PADI Liveaboard in Sabah, the Celebes Explorer provides divers with a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking underwater world of this protected marine sanctuary. This dive resort profile will give an in-depth overview of the MV Celebes Explorer, including its features, diving packages, facilities, and what makes it stand out as a top-tier choice for divers seeking an unforgettable adventure.

Overview of MV Celebes Explorer

The MV Celebes Explorer is a purpose-built, mid-sized liveaboard that accommodates up to 16 divers at a time, ensuring an intimate and personalized diving experience. Operating in the rich waters of the Celebes Sea, this liveaboard provides access to the famed dive sites of Sipadan, Mabul, Kapalai, and other surrounding islands.

With its comfortable amenities, spacious dive deck, and a well-organized crew of experienced dive professionals, the Celebes Explorer caters to divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. As an authorized PADI liveaboard, it offers comprehensive diving courses, including the PADI Open Water certification, Advanced Open Water, and various specialty courses, allowing guests to advance their skills while exploring the pristine waters around Sipadan.

The Dive Experience

Sipadan is often ranked among the top dive destinations in the world, primarily due to its spectacular biodiversity and thriving coral reefs. The island itself is a marine paradise, home to a stunning array of marine life such as schools of barracudas, green and hawksbill turtles, whitetip and grey reef sharks, manta rays, and countless species of tropical fish. The underwater scenery ranges from towering coral walls to deep blue drop-offs and fascinating macro life, offering something for every diver.

The MV Celebes Explorer is perfectly positioned to take full advantage of this rich marine environment. With daily access to Sipadan (subject to permit availability), guests can enjoy up to four dives per day, including night dives at nearby Mabul or Kapalai. The diving schedule is designed to maximize time spent at Sipadan’s prime dive sites like Barracuda Point, South Point, Turtle Cavern, and Hanging Gardens.

PADI Courses Onboard

As a PADI-authorized liveaboard, the MV Celebes Explorer offers a variety of PADI courses that allow divers to expand their skills while exploring Sipadan’s rich underwater landscapes. Courses are conducted by certified PADI instructors and can be tailored to individual needs. Whether you're a novice diver looking to complete your Open Water certification or an advanced diver seeking to specialize in areas like deep diving or underwater photography, the liveaboard provides a conducive learning environment.

Accommodations and Amenities

While the MV Celebes Explorer is designed with diving at its core, it doesn’t compromise on comfort. The liveaboard features a range of accommodation options, all designed to provide a relaxing retreat after a day of exhilarating dives. There are twin and double cabins, each equipped with air-conditioning and ensuite bathrooms with hot water showers. Cabins are cozy yet practical, offering ample storage space for personal belongings.

Guests can unwind in the communal lounge area, which is equipped with entertainment facilities such as a TV, DVD player, and a selection of marine life books and diving guides. The dining area serves as a social hub where divers can share stories over delicious meals. The chef on board prepares a variety of Western and Asian dishes, catering to various dietary requirements with prior notice. Fresh fruits, snacks, tea, and coffee are available throughout the day.

There is also a sundeck where guests can relax between dives, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding islands and the crystal-clear waters of the Celebes Sea. For those who prefer a more active break between dives, kayaks are available for use, allowing guests to explore the islands at their own pace.