Maratua-Sangalaki

Hi.

We are planning to dive Maratua and Sangalaki this summer. Could someone please tell us how good or bad is the diving there, Does it worth the jorney to dive there? Better to stay in Sangalaki or in Maratua, we know that we can dive both places where ever we stay but for beaches and resort which one would you choose?

We have done Sipadan 2 years ago and it was amazing...

Thanks for your information.

I' ve spent 2 weeks in Sangalaki in June 2004 and had a great time. Manta rays are the main attraction at Sangalaki, with dozens coming near the surface every afternoon, but macro and reef dives were good too. Samama is a fantastic site for macros, and only 15mins away. Kakaban has amazing walls, and an even more amazing jellyfish lake, like that of Palau. And Maratua is great for larger subjects, but 1h away, and requires additional price to get to.

I've heard recent reports that the resort at Sangalaki had dropped in quality. If this is confirmed, one alternative is to stay at Derawan Dive Resort, which has an incredible jetty dive.

Thanks Mattdiver. Have you heard about Maratua Paradise Resort? it's a new one in Maratua and it's the one my Travel Agency recomend us (They tolds us that Sangalaki resort is not in his best time right now) they sell dive tryps to Sangalaki and Kakaban too.

Your travel agent confirms the reports I've heard about the Sangalaki resort...

I haven't been to Maratua Paradise Resort, but I think Derawan is much nearer to Sangalaki, Samama and Kakaban as compared to Maratua, which would save a lot of commuting time...

We went to Sangalaki in August 2005. The diving was very good with encounters with multiple Mantas on 16 of the 22 dives we did. The resort was another story. The whole operation was up for sale we were told, and the operations manager very demotivated due to the uncertainty of his future. The resort staff tried their best, but halfway through our stay the chefs did a bunk and the reception staff mucked in with the cooking with predictable results. The bar was poorly stocked and the price of a beer started at 6$US!!!

This is all a great pity as the island has huge potential. The trip to the jellyfish lake on KAKABAN island was also a highlight. Lets hope that someone with a bit of vision buys the place. If so, I will be back