OASIS MAIDEN - Mabul & Kapalai

The Oasis Maiden isn't just another wreck dive; it's a journey back to a different era, and we absolutely love it for that. She went down in 1980, and time has been kind, covering her in soft corals and sponges. Dropping down, you feel the sheer scale of this 98-metre cargo vessel. We often spend the entire dive exploring her hold, which is now home to schools of batfish, their silver scales glinting in the shafts of light that pierce through the deck. Look closely at the deck plating, especially around the stern, where we’ve spotted ornate ghost pipefish camouflaged against the encrusting growth. The bridge area is a particular highlight; it’s largely intact, and you can still make out the outline of the helm. The feeling of swimming through what was once a working ship, now a vibrant artificial reef, is something special. The depth here, around 15 metres, means good bottom time, making it suitable for divers looking for a relaxed wreck exploration with plenty to see without needing deep diving certifications.

Location
Mabul & Kapalai, Malaysia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
4.968333, 118.238335
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
15m

Marine Protected Area: Pulau Saga, Pulau Saddle & Pulau Laila Protection Forest

Nearby Dive Sites in Mabul & Kapalai

Nearest Dive Centres to OASIS MAIDEN

Marine Life in Mabul & Kapalai

Home to 127 recorded species including 77 reef fish, 28 hard corals, 8 seagrass & algae, 3 sharks & rays, 3 clams & mussels, 2 other.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical depths for diving at the Oasis Maiden dive site?
The Oasis Maiden dive site offers diving opportunities at a typical depth of 15 meters. This makes it accessible for many certified divers looking to explore a fascinating wreck in Mabul & Kapalai, Malaysia.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to encounter at Oasis Maiden?
Divers at Oasis Maiden can expect to explore the fascinating underwater topography of a sunken motor vessel, measuring 98.5m x 14.9m. As a wreck site, it typically attracts various reef fish and smaller marine creatures that find shelter and food within its structure, though specific species are not detailed in our current data. You can learn more about general marine life in our wildlife database.
How challenging is the Oasis Maiden dive site, and is it suitable for divers of all experience levels?
The Oasis Maiden dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. Given its classification as a Dangerous wreck, it is best suited for divers with some prior experience and comfort in wreck diving environments, rather than divers of all experience levels.
What is the best time of year to dive at Oasis Maiden for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Our current data for the Oasis Maiden dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on diving seasons in the Mabul & Kapalai region, we recommend consulting our When to Dive section.
What diving certifications are necessary or recommended for diving at Oasis Maiden, especially for specific features like caves or deeper areas?
For diving at the Oasis Maiden, an intermediate difficulty wreck site at 15 meters, a standard Open Water Diver certification is generally sufficient. While there are no specific mentions of caves or deeper areas beyond 15m, a Wreck Diver specialty certification is highly recommended due to its classification as a Dangerous wreck, ensuring divers have the necessary skills for safe exploration.
What are the typical current conditions, visibility, and water temperatures at the Oasis Maiden dive site?
Our current data for the Oasis Maiden dive site does not include specific details regarding typical current conditions, visibility, or water temperatures. Divers planning a trip to Mabul & Kapalai should consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date information on these environmental factors.