PULAU HANTU
GETTING THERE Since there are no regular ferries from the main island to Pulau Hantu, you may have to arrange a private dive charter from one of the dive centres. The most common pickup venue is from the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club off West Coast Ferry Road.
MARINE LIFE Turtles, marigold dragons, nudibranchs, slugs, clownfish, various corals, seahorses, batfish and even sharks Translating from the Malay as “Ghost Island” or “Island of the Ghosts”, Pulau Hantu is located just off the southern shores of Singapore, a 30-to-45-minute boat ride from the city. Pulau Hantu is actually two islets – Pulau Hantu Kecil (Little Ghost Island) and Pulau Hantu Besar (Big Ghost Island) – and at low tide, you can sometimes wade across the shallow lagoon between them.
According to local legend, two fierce warriors were locked in a violent battle at sea and awoke a sleeping jinn (sea spirit). Angered by the fighting, the jinn cast a spell that sucked the warriors into the depths of the ocean. Undeterred, they continued their battle, eventually killing each other. The gods decided that the jinn should not have interfered in earthly matters, and the warriors were transformed into two islets for their spirits to inhabit. To this day, many believe that their ghosts still wander the islands.
Boasting abundant hard and soft corals, sheltered beaches and beautiful lagoons, diving and snorkelling at Pulau Hantu is popular, especially among
“Divers can expect various reef fish species, a wide variety of nudibranchs, shrimps, and even an occasional seahorse.”
macro photographers and muck enthusiasts, given the comparatively poor visibility. Divers can expect various reef fish species, a wide variety of nudibranchs, shrimps, and even an occasional seahorse.
The dives at Pulau Hantu are shallow, and visibility can be very good, especially during the cooler months. Visibility is generally extremely limited, however, and Pulau Hantu isn’t necessarily the place to go to learn how to dive. For those who are unable to go overseas for long periods of time to complete courses, it is still an option.