

Best for beginner divers, 2-25m, boat entry, mild current.
Mandarin House at Mataking Island offers a diverse underwater environment featuring a mix of reef, artificial reef, and muck diving. The site ranges from 2 to 25 metres in depth, making it suitable for beginners. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life, including common Chromodoris and Nembrotha nudibranchs. Less frequently, divers may spot Peacock Mantis Shrimp, Blue-ringed Octopus, Ornate Ghostpipefish, Emperor Angelfish, Yellow-edged Moray, Day Octopus, Trance Wrinkle Dorid, Indian Lionfish, Leaf Scorpionfish, Giant Moray, Bluespotted Fantail Ray, and Spotfin Lionfish. Access is by boat, and the site experiences mild currents with visibility ranging from 5 to 40 metres. Night diving is available. Be aware of sharp coral hazards.
4.59007, 118.86447
The mandarinfish emerge at dusk for their mating dance, requiring patience and careful positioning in dim light.
Accessed from dive resorts on Mabul Island via boat.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 25m
Visibility
5-40m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
28-30°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Mar, Oct
Divers regularly encounter common nudibranchs like Chromodoris and Nembrotha. Other species recorded include Peacock Mantis Shrimp, Blue-ringed Octopus, Ornate Ghostpipefish, Emperor Angelfish, various moray eels, lionfish, and the Bluespotted Fantail Ray.
Yes, Mandarin House is suitable for beginner divers, with depths ranging from 2 to 25 metres and mild currents.
Access to Mandarin House is by boat only.
While the site is primarily a dive location with depths up to 25 metres, the shallow sections may be accessible for snorkelling depending on conditions.
The best months to visit Mandarin House are March and October.
Diving at Mandarin House in Semporna requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Mandarin House in Semporna. Water temperatures range from 28°C to 30°C.
Divers at Mandarin House in Semporna should be aware of blue ringed octopus. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Mandarin House in Semporna typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Mandarin House in Semporna typically ranges from 5 metres to 40 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.