MANOKWARI - Sipadan

Manokwari isn’t what most people picture when they hear "Sipadan wreck." Forget deep walls and pelagics for a moment. This is something else entirely. She's a motor vessel, built in '72, resting in the shallows right off the island’s north shore. We’re talking barely a metre deep. We love Manokwari for a snorkel, or better yet, a freedive. You can spend an hour just finning over her, spotting the ghost nets that still cling to the superstructure. The hull is a nursery for juvenile reef fish. Tiny parrotfish nibble on algae, and we've seen baby blacktip reef sharks cruise right over the deck. It’s an eerie, beautiful contrast – this hulking steel vessel slowly being reclaimed by the reef. Look for the way the light refracts through the surface, dappling the deck plates. It’s surprisingly peaceful, a different side to Sipadan’s usual high-octane dives. Our pick? Go at slack tide, early morning, before the dive boats stir up the sand. You’ll have her mostly to yourself.

Location
Sipadan, Malaysia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
6.737333, 117.619330
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
1m

Marine Protected Area: Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area

Best Time to Dive in Sipadan

The warmest water temperatures in Sipadan occur in August, averaging 30.6°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 28.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.5°C
  • February: 28.3°C
  • March: 28.9°C
  • April: 29.7°C
  • May: 30.3°C
  • June: 30.3°C
  • July: 30.2°C
  • August: 30.6°C
  • September: 30.5°C
  • October: 30.4°C
  • November: 30.0°C
  • December: 29.3°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Sipadan

Nearest Dive Centres to MANOKWARI

Marine Life in Sipadan

Home to 147 recorded species including 111 reef fish, 11 sea snails & nudibranchs, 9 sharks & rays, 5 seagrass & algae, 4 other, 4 hard corals.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for MANOKWARI

Based on average water temperature of 29.7°C, currents 12 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 30°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths for sites around Manokwari, especially for the WWII wrecks?
The Manokwari wreck itself is found at a shallow depth of 1m. The provided data does not specify typical diving depths for other sites around Manokwari or information about WWII wrecks in the immediate area, as this vessel was sunk in 1991.
What kind of marine life and underwater attractions can divers expect to see when diving in Manokwari?
The primary underwater attraction at Manokwari is the impressive wreck of a motor vessel, measuring 106.1m in length and 14.9m in width, which sank on December 2, 1991. The provided data does not specify details about marine life encounters at this particular site.
How challenging are the dive sites in Manokwari for different skill levels, particularly regarding currents?
The Manokwari dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level, making it suitable for divers with some experience. The provided data does not offer specific details regarding currents or how they might affect different skill levels at this location.
What is the best time of year to go diving in Manokwari for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data for the Manokwari dive site does not include information regarding the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on seasonal conditions in the region, you might consult our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required for diving in Manokwari, especially for wreck or deeper dives?
Given that Manokwari is an intermediate level wreck dive at a shallow depth of 1m, a basic open water certification would likely suffice for general exploration. However, as it is classified as a "Dangerous wreck," additional training such as a wreck diving specialty certification is highly recommended for any penetration or more advanced exploration of this site.
What are the typical water conditions, visibility, and currents like at Manokwari dive sites?
The provided data for the Manokwari dive site does not include specific details regarding typical water conditions, visibility, or currents. Divers should always check local conditions with dive operators before planning their dive to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.