B&J Diving Centre, Tioman Island, Malaysia - Image 1
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B&J Diving Centre Tioman Island Malaysia

4.8
·696 reviews·Pulau Tioman, Malaysia

Learn to dive or advance your skills with B&J Diving Centre on Tioman Island, known for its patient instructors and vibrant marine life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dry Season (March - October)

Calm seas, best visibility for diving

CrowdMedium
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B&J Diving Centre, Tioman Island, Malaysia - Image 1

B&J Diving Centre Tioman Island Malaysia

Best Time

Dry Season (March - October)

Calm seas, best visibility for diving

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Learn to dive or advance your skills with B&J Diving Centre on Tioman Island, known for its patient instructors and vibrant marine life.

4.8
(696 reviews)

"Highly recommended for a great diving experience with patient and knowledgeable instructors."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Trust Your Instructors

Reviewers consistently praise instructors like Gabriel, Bong, Wiktor, Elina, and Sophia for their patience, expertise, and fun approach.

🛏️ Accommodation Check

Rooms are generally clean, but check for any minor maintenance issues upon arrival. Packages often include accommodation.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Open Water Certification

Open Water Certification

B&J Diving Centre

Perfect for beginners, learn to dive with patient and experienced instructors. Gain confidence and explore the underwater world.

Advanced Diving Courses

Advanced Diving Courses

B&J Diving Centre

Elevate your skills with advanced training, including night dives and boat dives. Boost your underwater confidence and explore more.

Local Dive Sites

Local Dive Sites

Tioman Island

Discover vibrant marine life and unique underwater topography at sites like Labas and Chebeh. Perfect for spotting juvenile fish and soft corals.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Dive Courses in Advance

Tioman Island is a popular dive destination, and B&J Diving Centre is highly recommended. To secure your spot, especially for popular courses or peak seasons, booking well in advance is crucial. This ensures you get your preferred dates and instructors, as many reviewers highlight the quality of their specific instructors.Reddit

Consider Accommodation Packages

B&J Diving Centre offers accommodation as part of their course packages. While some guests found the rooms clean and comfortable, a few noted minor issues like a faulty doorknob. Reviewing package options can simplify your trip planning and potentially offer a convenient base for your diving adventures.Reddit

Best Times

When
Dry Season (March - October)
Why
Calm seas, best visibility for diving
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more instructor attention
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Best Malaysia dive site from Singapore?

🎯 Trust Your Instructors

Reviewers consistently praise instructors like Gabriel, Bong, Wiktor, Elina, and Sophia for their patience, expertise, and fun approach. Reddit

🛏️ Accommodation Check

Rooms are generally clean, but check for any minor maintenance issues upon arrival. Packages often include accommodation. Reddit

reddit.com

Diving certification

reddit.com

Any good dive spots at Tioman, Malaysia?

🐠 Marine Life Spotting

Instructors are excellent at spotting diverse marine life, enhancing your dive experience. Keep an eye out for juvenile fish and soft corals. Reddit

🤝 Welcoming Community

The B&J team creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making you feel part of the diving community. Reddit

reddit.com

Just about to get PADI Open Water Diving Certification in Southeast Asia - what are the must-visit places to dive near Singapore/Malaysia/Indonesia?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Trust Your Instructors

Reviewers consistently praise instructors like Gabriel, Bong, Wiktor, Elina, and Sophia for their patience, expertise, and fun approach. Reddit

🛏️ Accommodation Check

Rooms are generally clean, but check for any minor maintenance issues upon arrival. Packages often include accommodation. Reddit

🐠 Marine Life Spotting

Instructors are excellent at spotting diverse marine life, enhancing your dive experience. Keep an eye out for juvenile fish and soft corals. Reddit

🤝 Welcoming Community

The B&J team creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making you feel part of the diving community. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(696 reviews)

Reviews Summary

B&J Diving Centre on Tioman Island is highly praised for its exceptional dive instructors, who are consistently described as patient, knowledgeable, and fun. Many guests rave about their certification courses, highlighting the welcoming community and the quality of the diving experience. While accommodation is generally good, minor maintenance issues have been noted by some visitors.

"Review

Recently completed our Open Water Course with instructor Gabriel at B&J Diving Centre, and it was a perfect introduction to diving. Instructor Gabriel was clear, attentive, and very committed to making sure we left the island with a good understanding of diving and a cert. He was also very good at spotting all sorts of marine life, which came in handy during our open water dives. Instructor Bong, who floated in the nearby water sometimes, was very humorous and fun to be around.

We stayed in the accommodations provided as part of our course and the room was clean and comfortable. Unfortunately, our door knob was botched and we had to ram our shoulders against the door to enter and exit the room.

Overall, would highly recommend B&J for anyone looking to enjoy a great diving experience."

X

"Recently completed my Advanced Diving Course at B&J Diving Centre with Instructor Bong, and it was an absolutely fantastic experience from start to finish. His clear instructions, attention to safety, and ability to explain complex skills in a simple way really boosted my confidence underwater.
The team at B&J Diving Centre is warm and welcoming, and the equipment was well maintained. I truly felt like I was in good hands the entire time. I would highly recommend B&J Diving Centre and especially Instructor Bong to anyone looking to advance their diving skills or simply enjoy a great diving experience. I’ll definitely be back for more fun dives."

BB

"I would like to share my experience from taking courses and staying with TDR.

Open Water Course - my instructor Wiktor Majczak, he is very experienced and has a lot of patience toward a slow learner like me. He quickly identifies my shortcomings and provides appropriate guidance and advice on how to enhance my breathing, buoyancy, and abilities.

Advanced Water Course - my instructor Elina Chappis, she is a very sweet and knowledgeable instructor. Very patience repeating the steps carefully and provide great guidance on my night diving and boat diving. Had a great learning from her.

Accomodation - TDR offer a very nice and clean accomodation. The only down side is the breakfast at Johan, their foods is not that great and taste just so so."

Sandy

What People Like

Outstanding instructors
Great dive courses
Welcoming community vibe

What People Dislike

Minor accommodation issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach Tioman Island, you'll typically fly into Kuala Lumpur (KUL) or Singapore (SIN) and then take a bus or taxi to Mersing or Tanjung Gemok ferry terminal. From there, a ferry will take you to Tioman. B&J Diving Centre is located on Tioman Island, and they can often assist with ferry arrangements or provide directions upon booking. Reddit

Once you arrive at Tioman Island via ferry, B&J Diving Centre is usually accessible by a short walk or a quick boat transfer depending on your arrival jetty. It's best to confirm your arrival jetty with B&J Diving Centre beforehand so they can guide you. Reddit

There are no direct international flights to Tioman Island. You'll need to fly into a major Malaysian or Singaporean airport and then take a ferry. Reddit

The main ferry operators are Bluewater Express and Cataferry, departing from Mersing and Tanjung Gemok. Schedules can vary, so it's advisable to check their websites or book through your dive center. Reddit

Tioman Island is relatively small. Getting around usually involves walking, especially if you're staying near the dive center, or using local water taxis for longer distances between villages. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can book your Open Water Course directly through the B&J Diving Centre website or by contacting them via email or phone. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Reddit

Pricing for courses like the Open Water and Advanced Open Water can vary. It's best to check the official B&J Diving Centre website for the most up-to-date pricing and package deals, which often include accommodation. Reddit

Yes, there is a marine park conservation fee and a Johor National Parks fee that are typically collected at the ferry terminal before boarding your ferry to Tioman Island. Reddit

B&J Diving Centre operates daily to accommodate dive courses and fun dives. It's best to check their specific operating hours for the dive shop and any administrative offices, especially if you plan to visit outside of scheduled course times. Reddit

Yes, B&J Diving Centre offers fun dives for certified divers. You can book these in advance or upon arrival, depending on availability. Reddit

🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience

Tioman's waters are rich with marine life. Expect to see colorful coral reefs, a variety of reef fish, turtles, moray eels, and sometimes even reef sharks. Instructors are skilled at spotting these creatures. Reddit

Absolutely! Reviewers consistently praise instructors like Sophia, Gabriel, and Wiktor for their patience, clear instruction, and ability to cater to slow learners, making them excellent for beginners. Reddit

The water temperature in Tioman is generally warm, typically ranging from 27-30°C (81-86°F) year-round, making it comfortable for diving. Reddit

Popular dive sites include Labas, known for its rock formations and penetration opportunities, and Chebeh, highly rated for its marine biodiversity. Magician Reef and a 'secret reef' in the south are also mentioned for soft corals and juvenile fish. Reddit

Yes, many solo travelers have had great experiences at B&J, often highlighting the welcoming community and the opportunity to meet other divers during courses. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

B&J Diving Centre is located in a village area, and there are usually local restaurants and cafes nearby offering Malaysian cuisine. Some accommodations may also have their own dining facilities. Reddit

Some accommodation packages may include breakfast. However, one reviewer mentioned that the breakfast at 'Johan' (likely a nearby eatery) was just 'so so'. It's best to confirm meal inclusions with your booking. Reddit

While specific options can vary, most Malaysian eateries can accommodate simple vegetarian requests. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when ordering. Reddit

You can expect a variety of local Malaysian dishes, including fresh seafood, nasi lemak, satay, and various noodle dishes. Reddit

While Tioman is more about casual island life, some resorts might offer slightly more upscale dining experiences. For most visitors, the focus is on enjoying local, fresh food. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life at sites like Magician Reef and the southern 'secret reef' offer excellent opportunities for underwater photography. The clear waters also help. Reddit

It's best to inquire directly with B&J Diving Centre about underwater camera rental options. Some dive centers offer this service, especially for those taking advanced courses. Reddit

Look for colorful reef fish, sea turtles, nudibranchs, and the intricate patterns of soft corals. Instructors can often guide you to areas with good photo opportunities. Reddit

Be patient and respectful of the marine life. Use a wide-angle lens for larger subjects and a macro lens for smaller creatures. Good lighting is key, so consider a dive light. Reddit

Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are popular for sharing diving photos. Using relevant hashtags like #TiomanDiving, #BJDiving, and #MalaysiaDiving can increase visibility. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

B&J Diving Centre offers a fantastic introduction to the underwater world for families. The Open Water Course is ideal for older children and adults looking to get certified. Instructors are known for their patience and ability to make learning fun and engaging, which is crucial when introducing new skills to younger family members. The welcoming community atmosphere ensures everyone feels comfortable and supported.

While the accommodation is generally clean, it's worth noting that minor maintenance issues can occur, so managing expectations is key. For families, focusing on the learning experience and the incredible marine life encounters will likely outweigh any small inconveniences. The dive sites offer a chance to see colorful fish and potentially turtles, making it an educational and exciting adventure for all ages. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

B&J Diving Centre provides good value, especially when considering their accommodation packages. While Tioman is not the cheapest destination in Malaysia, booking a course that includes lodging can help manage costs. The quality of instruction is consistently praised, meaning you're getting excellent training for your money. Reddit

For dining, exploring local eateries away from the most tourist-centric spots can offer more affordable meals. Bringing some snacks and water from the mainland can also help reduce daily expenses. The overall experience of learning to dive in a beautiful island setting is a significant part of the value proposition.

💑 Couples

B&J Diving Centre offers a memorable experience for couples looking for an adventurous getaway. Taking a diving course together, like the Open Water or Advanced Open Water, can be a fantastic shared activity. The patient and friendly instructors create a relaxed learning environment, allowing couples to bond over new skills and discoveries.

Opting for an accommodation package can provide a convenient and comfortable base for your stay. After diving, you can enjoy the island's natural beauty, explore local food spots, and relax together. The shared experience of exploring the underwater world is sure to create lasting memories. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Choosing Your Dive Instructor

B&J Diving Centre is renowned for its exceptional instructors, many of whom receive specific praise from students. Reviewers frequently mention instructors like Gabriel, Bong, Wiktor Majczak, Elina Chappis, and Sophia for their unique teaching styles and dedication. Gabriel is noted for his attentiveness and skill in spotting marine life, while Bong is highlighted for his humor and fun approach. Wiktor is praised for his patience with slower learners, and Elina for her sweetness and thorough guidance on night and boat dives. Sophia is described as a humble, patient, and down-to-earth instructor who tailors lessons to individual strengths and weaknesses.

When booking your course, consider reading instructor profiles if available or asking the dive center for recommendations based on your learning style. The positive experiences shared by past students underscore the importance of a good instructor in making your diving journey both safe and enjoyable. Many reviewers express a strong desire to return and dive with the same instructors again, emphasizing the lasting impact they have on the diving experience. Reddit

The community aspect is also a significant draw. Other instructors often pop by to check on students, creating a supportive and friendly environment. This camaraderie among the B&J team contributes to the overall positive vibe and makes divers feel truly welcome.

Tioman's Underwater Wonders

Tioman Island boasts a diverse range of dive sites, each offering unique underwater landscapes and marine encounters. Labas is a popular spot, particularly for those interested in sidemount diving, offering opportunities to penetrate rock formations. Chebeh is another highly-rated site, celebrated for its rich biodiversity and vibrant marine life. For those seeking specific underwater features, Magician Reef is a notable location.

In the southern part of the island, a lesser-known 'secret reef' is described as being full of soft corals and teeming with juvenile fish, making it a fantastic spot for macro photography and observing young marine life. These sites cater to various diving interests, from exploring intricate rock structures to observing bustling fish populations and colorful coral gardens. The variety ensures that both novice and experienced divers can find something captivating.

The clarity of the water in Tioman, especially during the dry season, further enhances the diving experience, allowing for better visibility and more immersive exploration of these underwater treasures. The presence of instructors skilled in spotting marine life means you're likely to see more than you might on your own. Reddit