\n<\/p>\n
Enthusiasts say that the biodiversity-rich waters around the park is likely to rejuvenate the local diving scene for both Singaporeans and tourists alike.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe marine park will make diving more interesting. I believe there will be a growth for the number of people wanting to become divers in Singapore,\u201d said The Submersibles’ Mr Chua.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Mr Lim Teck Koon, an instructor at dive centre Blue Reef Scuba, agreed.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith the busy schedules of working Singaporeans, we don’t always have the ability to make a weekend trip,\u201d he said. \u201cDiving in Singapore offers us the opportunity to just make a day trip, or half a day trip. (Hence), more access to different locations will definitely help.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Despite the optimism, operators say key details have yet to be finalised, including the extent of accessible dive areas and logistical arrangements.\u00a0<\/p>\n
When diving at Sisters’ Islands was first permitted in 2015, six operators were given approval. It is unknown how many operators will be permitted this year.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Divers must also have certification beyond entry level from reputable international training organisations, and must have logged at least 20 dives, with one local dive within the past two years.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Blue Reef Scuba’s Mr Lim noted that previous diving access at the park was limited to the authorised underwater trail.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cWe were only allowed to dive in that designated area marked by underwater pickets. So we were not allowed to explore that far,\u201d he said.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cSo, our curiosity is \u2026 what is the extent of this reopening? Are there fixed sites that we go to, like a guided trail, or is the entire area around the island open to us?\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Operators also highlighted logistical considerations, including whether dives will be limited to boat access and how equipment and divers can be transported efficiently.<\/p>\n
They said these factors will ultimately determine how quickly they can roll out new trips and courses once diving restarts.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n