Contrary to popular belief, Singapore - despite being a small country, holds some of the greatest spots to scuba dive. Amidst the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, though safety restrictions have clamped down on the diving community, Singaporean divers can still engage in safe scuba diving activities in various spots located around the island. Local dive shops and dive groups are opening up to organise more diving trips whilst practicing the necessary safety measures. Today, we will share some of the best scuba diving spots in Singapore where you can continue to dive recreationally and safely in 2021!
1. Pulau Hantu
Only 30 minutes away by boat, Pulau Hantu is considered one of the most famous local scuba diving spots in Singapore. Joint with two islands - Hantu Kecil and Hantu Basar, the waters surrounding the site is home to some of the most vibrant and diverse marine life around. Divers adore the spot for the plethora of luscious coral reefs with rare glimpses of sea turtles, sharks, and tons of unique nudibranchs. Recently, divers have also reported sights of the Black Frogfish!
How to get there: With the recent surge in demand, Dive Box now provides scuba diving trips to the island, working with a few major operators that are well versed with the place. Given the new COVID-19 restrictions, capacities for passengers allowed on dive vessels have been reduced greatly - and is changing constantly. We therefore suggest planning your trip way in advance with us to secure a slot for your scuba diving adventure! (Do expect to wait up till a couple of months at the present moment)
2. Pulau Jong
The small, triangular island of Pulau Jong is located 8km away from the main island of Singapore. Hidden from tourists, this spot is perfect for advanced divers who are looking for a casual dive. It is also a common place for divers looking to complete their PADI or SSI Advance Diver courses. The abundance of coral reefs around the island is also home to many species of fish such as parrotfish with the occasional meetings of nurse sharks. However, do be informed that sea current can be strong here during high tide, and hence this spot is only recommended for those who are advanced scuba divers.
How to get there: At the moment there is no public transport that will take you there. You will have to charter your own private boat, or join dive groups that organise trips to the island. Check in with us over at Dive Box for more details on how you can get there.
3. Sister’s Island Marine Park
Located at Pulau Subar Laut or the Big Sister’s Island, the recently made public Marine Park holds waters teeming with diverse varieties of fish such as harlequin fish, eels and turtles. Many advanced divers come here to spot the haunting wreckage of MV Iran Sarai, a steel vessel of Indonesian origin measuring over 50 metres long!
How to get there: The National Parks Board often organises diving trips here. You may find more details on the schedule via their website and updates on any Covid-19 measures.
4. Sudong Wreck
Sudong Wreck is the name given to a steel vessel that has been believed to be sunk by the Japanese during World War 2. Over 50 metres long and well preserved, the wreckage is home to many marine life such as turtles and sharks, making it one of the best spots in Singapore to scuba dive. This dive is recommended only during slack tides as the currents can be strong at higher tides.
How to get there: The wreck is located next to the hazard marker buoy right off the coast of Sudong Island aka Pulau Sudong. Various dive groups offer dive trips to Sudong Wreck, do check in with your local dive groups around for more details.
Already planning your next scuba diving trip? Be sure to check in on the Covid-19 restrictions first before proceeding. If all is good, pack your dive bags and we will see you in the waters soon!