B&J

Tioman Island, Malaysia

Stepping off the ferry at Tekek, you’ll likely see the B&J crew buzzing around, gear on trolleys, ready for the next dive. These guys are Tioman veterans. We love their energy, but what really sets them apart is their dedication to serious diver training, from your first fin kicks to instructor development. If you're looking to really level up your skills, or even go pro, this is the place. Their instructors have a knack for making even complex technical courses feel achievable, and always with a good dose of humour. We’d suggest asking for one of their early morning trips to Chebeh. The light filtering through the swim-throughs as the reef awakens is something special, often with schools of yellowback fusiliers swirling so thick you can barely see your buddy. Later in the day, their boats often hit Renggis or Sepoi, where we’ve had some cracking encounters with green turtles munching on corals. The rental gear is always well-maintained, a small detail that makes a big difference. And if you’re staying at their resort, the post-dive debriefs on the veranda with a cold drink are our favourite way to end the day. Just be prepared for a few friendly jabs about your air consumption.