Tuesday, 17 June 2014

REDANG ISLAND


ABOUT ISLAND

White sandy beaches, crystal clear blue sea, brilliant underwater world are what we can describe on the perfectness on Redang Island. Redang Island is located at 45km offshore of Terengganu. 


For the layman, Redang lies close to the equator, somewhere in the South China Sea off the northeast coast of Peninsular Malaysia. For GPS geeks, that's within 5°44' - 5°50' North latitude and 102°59' - 103°5' East longitude. Timezone is GMT+8. Geographically, it is located about 45km north-northeast of Kuala Terengganu, the state capital of Terengganu and gateway to Redang, with the closest point on the mainland 22km away at Tanjung Merang. Close enough that on a clear day, you should be able to see the mainland from Redang Island.

Redang archipelago comprises 9 islands; The Lima Island, Paku Besar Island, Paku Kecil Island, Kerengga Besar Island, Kerengga Kecil Island, Ekor Tebu Island, Ling Island, Pinang Island and Redang Island. This archipelago is abounds with marvelous marine fishes, turtles and coral reefs, ensuring a great snorkeling and scuba-driving experience. Redang Island which is approximately 7km in length 6km in width, is the largest of all other islands in Marine Park.



The Redang archipelago has been designated as Pulau Redang Marine Parks Malaysia as the conserve the island’s unique ecosystem. There are 500 species of live corals, more than a thousand species of invertebrates and almost 3000 species of fishes which includes manta rays, sting rays, sharks and whale sharks and whale sharks, all living in harmony in the reefs fringing the islands. It is a real heaven for divers.

Diving enthusiasts and underwater photographers will definitely be entranced by the sights of the islands, which are ranked among the best coral reef in the world. Among the attractions at the twenty over different diving spots, there are shipwrecks near Pinang Island, black coral garden as well as the mysterious submerged chamber, both located in the vicinity of Lima Island. And not forgetting is the Mini Mount situated between Kerengga Besar Island and Kerengga Kecil Island. Redang waters also contain two historic shipwrecks. The H.M.S Prince of Wales and H.M.S. Repulse were sunk here during the WWII, setting the stage for the Japanese occupation of Malaya.

ACCOMODATION

REDANG BAY RESORT

Location: Pasir Panjang Beach






Redang Bay Resorts is a 76 rooms resort. The resort consists of 1 blocks of 2 storey which is consist of 25 family and 27 standard rooms. There are 24 twin sharing room which is chalet type accommodation. Each room is provided with: standing shower, attached bathrooms, air-conditioning, safety Box deposit available at reception counter, 220 volt electric point.

All food prepared and served is Halal. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, tea time and dinner. This multipurpose premise is opened until midnight. The seats can accommodate about 300 guests.
There are two souvenir shops in the resort. Both are selling gift and souvenir items that are remarkably features more on Pulau Redang escapade. One can purchase for own memorable value or present to loved one, family, friends or colleagues. 

The Swimming Pool & Playground-Guests can spend their day lazing by the pool. Spacious area with colorful play station is being placed for children to play around. 

77A, Jalan Sultan Sulaiman, 
20000 Kuala Terengganu, 
Terengganu, Malaysia.
Tel: +609-626 2020  

Fax: +609-626 2022 / 622 8093
E-mail: info@redangisland.com
 
REDANG ISLAND RESORT

Location: Teluk Redang





Redang Island Resort is a 98 room. All rooms with individually controlled air-conditioning, television, telephone, safe deposit boxes (available at front desk), mini bar (self-stock), private unsuited bathroom with shower, hair-dryer, private balcony, 220 volt electrical points, tea and coffee making facilities. 46 units sea view chalet and 52 units rainforest chalet.

Provide laundry service, 24 hours security, Wi-Fi connection, meeting rooms, games room, sea and land recreation services, gym, and swimming pool with separate child pool. Santapan Cafe (a coffee house serving Malaysian and International cuisine) Santai Bar & Lounge (a bar and lounge serving scrumptious snacks and beverages. 


Teluk Redang, Redang Island,
21090 Kuala Terengganu,
Terengganu, Malaysia.
Tel: + 609-630 8787
Fax: + 609-630 8788
Email: reservation@redangislandresort.com

REDANG REEF RESORT
Location: Pasir Panjang






Just 30 minutes from mainland Terengganu lays Redang Island, and perched atop a rocky ledge amidst its serene greenery is Redang Reef Resort. Redang Reef offers only 32 rooms in three blocks of double-storey wooden longhouses of authentically Malay architecture.

With basic modern amenities, the simplicity of the rooms emphasizes the laidback homely ambience that permeates the resort, providing guests a casual, relaxing and cozy holiday experience.
Nestled between Redang's loveliest stretch of beach and rich coral bay, Redang Reef is both a haven of tranquility and stunning landscapes, and a doorway to an exhilarating adventure.
Romantic moments are shared on its quiet, sun kissed beach fronting a clear, shallow, private lagoon. Stroll along the main beach accessible by a private bridge, or under the moonlight mesmerized by the sparkling blue sand - a feature unique to Redang Reef. Or take a dip into spectacular playgrounds of corals with abundant kaleidoscopes of astounding marine life.

Throw in a generous spread of sumptuous local cuisine under the stars and that all you need to call Redang Reef your home by the sea.


Redang Reef Resort Travel and Tours Sdn.Bhd.
167, Jalan Bandar,
20100 Kuala Terengganu.
Terengganu Darul Iman, Malaysia.

Tel: +609-622 6181
Fax: +609-622 4181
Email: contact@redangreefresort.com.my

FOOD AND BEVERAGE

Food and beverages usually will included to you accommodation package. Some hotel or resort will take an extra charge for BBQ near to the beach at night.


ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTION

GARDEN UNDER THE SEA

As the largest island among the Redang Archipelago, Pulau Redang is not only made famous by its white sandy beach but also the world lying beneath this crystal clear water which, is not only paradise for marine life but also for natural lovers. Snorkeling or diving in the sea around Pulau Redang is a breathtaking experience where, the water surrounding Pulau Redang is home to some 3,000 species of fish, 1.000 of species of bivalves and 500 species of reef-building coral. 

Coral reefs are found in the shallow as well as the deep water around the islands. They are formed by gradual accumulation and transformation of tiny soft-bodied animals, closely related to sea anemones. One of the very common coral found in the waters of Pulau Redang is Staghorn corals. This reef-building corals are often found in shallow areas. They are green, brown or yellowish in colour and they provide shelter for a variety of small fishes and other sea animals. 




In the deeper water there are sea fans, soft tree corals, cup coral and several species of nudibranch. Some deeper rocks are covered with leathery soft corals with some soft tree corals, cup corals, tunicates and sponges. Large giant clams are often found here.  

Then on the sand itself are larger soft corals and sea fans, whip corals, table corals, mushroom corals, boulder corals, nudibranch, sea stars, cushin stars and sea urchin.  

Perhaps you will agree that the glory of this underwater garden will eclipse if without the existence of fish. Fish chasing each other in the coral or swimming in groups in the dark blue sea like a group of patrolling soldiers, making this garden as fascinating and as colourful as the colour palette of an artist. 

Shoaling fish such as jacks and snappers and rabbitfish, or groupers silver barracudas, clownfish, triggerfish, parrotfish, stingrays, hammerheads and Green turtles etc. is always surprises the divers. There have been a few times when divers have spotted a whale shark at Big Mount, one of the popular dive sites in Pulau Redang. And if you are lucky, you might spot a cuttlefish, squid and/or Eagle ray while snorkeling.  






The best location for snorkeling on this island is found at the southern coast around the Pulau Pinang and Pulau Ekor Tebu. Below sea level, you will get to see some of the more beautiful sea creatures including the batfish, angelfish, boxfish and butterfly fish. There are also many multicolored creatures that eat off anemone, sponges and bivalves. For diving enthusiasts, there are about 18 dive sites around Pulau Redang, each has its own way to surprise the divers.  

Conservation has been taken place by gazetted this island as one of the marine park in Malaysia in order to protect the marine life in this marine paradise. Activities such as fishing, collecting corals and marine life, and anchoring boats directly on the reef are prohibited within two nautical miles of these islands. 


DIVE SITE - PULAU REDANG ARCHIPELAGO

Malaysia is renowned for its natural beauty but it is the coral reefs located primarily around these off -shore islands that will lure you to one of the best diving destinations in the world, the Redang archipelago. Suitable substrates, clear water with temperatures ranging from 27 ° to 31.5 ° C as well as salinity in range of 31 to 34 ppt are conducive to coral reef development and healthy growth of marine life. These conditions are just as suitable for you to explore the underwater realm of the following islands in comfort and ease.

Visibility generally depends on sea conditions but is excellent from the months of April till October. All dive spots are located within a 30 minute speedboat ride from the resort. 



A. PULAU REDANG

Dive Site # 1. Tanjung Lang
Located on the northern tip of Pulau Redang, this spot offers a variety of corals such as hydrozoans, siphonophorans and anthozoans which include sea fans and sea whips as well as crustaceans and fish of different colours for all to feast their eyes upon. With a maximum depth of 60 feet, it is accessible to any certified diver.

Dive Site # 2. Tanjung Tok Kong
Situated a short distance away, this dive location offers an amazing array of marine flora and fauna till a depth of 80 feet. Sea turtles are an almost site of green and hawksbill turtles. Sights include feather stars; tube worms, nudibranchs and schools of tuna forming a magnificent screen right before you.

Dive Site # 3. Tanjung Gua Kawah
At a maximum depth of 70 feet, this dive spot is a must for those who are willing to brave the currents and waves. Rest assured that your efforts will be rewarded handsomely in the from of the marvelous underwater realm before you.

Dive Site # 4. Pasir Panjang
Just a stone's throw away from the resort, one is able to see fascinating species of corals and sea life living in harmony. With a maximum depth of just 40 feet, this spot could very well be your first taste of Redang. Not to be missed is the sight of the resident grouper recently christened KAREN.

Dive Site # 5. Batu Mak Chantek
Situated near Pasir Panjang, this spot which reaches down to 60 feet, is bountiful with colourful reef fishes and invertebrates including echinoderms, moluscs are well as feather stars and hydrozoans. Night diving here features the nocturnal world at its best.

B. PULAU PAKU BESAR 
Dive Site # 6. Offering spectacular sights till a depth of 50 feet, this area is rather popular with local and foreign diving enthusiasts alike. This is no surprise as it is teeming with a diversity of marine organisms like Tubinaria, Tubastrea, mushroom and brain corals, staghorn coral plus giant clams, shrimps and crabs.

C. PULAU PAKU KECIL 
Dive Site # 7. This island, an extension of Tanjung Tengah in Pulau Redang, is commonly included in any diver's itinerary as it offers a mix of soft corals, invertebrates and fish until a depth of 60 feet. Sights include staghorn coral, tube worms and moluscs.

D. PULAU LING
Dive Site # 8. The Northern Side.
This relatively shallow dive spot where maximum depth is at 60 feet is teeming with Acropora sp. coral, also known as staghorn coral, providing a nutriently rich home for an array of marine organism including anemones and small wrasses, bottlebrush worms, plychaetes, crustaceans and moluscs.

Dive Side # 9. Batu Chipor
Standing independently like a minute island off the coast of Pulau Ling, this rock is constantly washed over by he waves. Rich with sea fans and soft corals as well as unique shaped fish which include pufferfish reaching all the way down to 80 feet, it is a must for all to see.

E. PULAU PINANG
Dive Site # 10. Submerged Wreck
Located 40 feet below surface, this wreck is carpeted with corals and sponges. Reef fish including groupers and snappers as well as a variety of moluscs including cowries, helmet shells and spider shells plus an array of hermit crabs live in the deeper areas of the ship.

Dive Site # 11. Terumbu Kili
Another popular location for divers where inhabitants include soldier fish, black tip sharks and the majestic lion ish. Maximum depth is at 70 feet. Do look out for the magnificent array of hard and soft coral, sea fans, and feather stars.

F. PULAU LIMA
In a class of its own, this island is renowned for its beauty, this making it a diver's paradise.

Dive Site # 12. Terumbu Putih
Offering a maximum depth of 120 feet, only those willing to accept the dare rewarded with unbelievable pristine beauty of the sea whips, barrel sponges and reef inhabitants which included soldier fish, cardinal fish, sea-squirts, bryozoans and squid living here.

Dive Site # 13. Black Coral Garden
Venture to the depth between 90 to 110 feet and an underwater Garden of Eden filled with Antipathes sp. corals or more commonly referred to as black corals, will unfold before your very eyes. Also interesting are the sights along the way, which include sea fans, sea fans, sea whips, harp corals and a kaleidoscope of fish.

Dive Site # 14. "Mysterious Submerged Chamber"
A newly discovered dive spot with spectacular sights and sounds providing a serene surrounding to soothe all ills. Come and experience it for yourselves. Be seen until a depth of 70 feet.

Dive Site # 15. The Southeastern Side
Pocked surface underwater housing minutes and colorful reef fish including pipefish and wrasses and bottom feeders such as schools of fusiliers and crustaceans can be seen until a depth of 70 feet.

Dive Site # 16. The Northeastern Side
Another area common among divers with the sea floor located 100 feet below the surface. Colors and shapes in the form of corals, sponges, sea-squirts, feather stars and fish will put a smile on any diver's face.

G. PULAU KERENGGA KECIL
Dive Site # 17. Feast your eyes on the Mini Mount at depth of 60 feet off the waters of this island featuring a unique blend of sponges, shrimps, mollusks, echinoderms and soft corals.

H. PULAU KERENGGA BESAR
Dive Site # 18. Uneven terrain offering caves and other crevices make this island popular among all divers. Maximum depth is at 60 feet. Marine life includes rainbow-like wrasses, clown fish, coral trout and delight looking nudibranches.

I. PULAU EKOR TEBU
Dive Site # 19. Divers will enjoy the sights along the steep walls located on the eastern side of the island. Corals found here include stag horns, vase corals, dead man’s finger and daisy corals. Not to be missed are the reptiles and rays roaming around freely in the sea. Located almost 100 meters off the coast of this island is a submerged reef with the maximum depth of 60 feet. It is abundant with fish of various size, shape and color. An irresistible dive site!

Dive Sites of Lang Tengah Island:
1.   Goby Garden
2.   Blue Coral
3.   Batu Banyak Keras
4.   Batu June
5.   Terumbu Kuning
6.   Karang Bahar
7.   Tanjung Telunjuk
8.   Batu Kuching
9.   Batu Kapal
10. Terumbu Putih
11. Batu Bulan
12. Batu Broler
13. Tanjung Nibong
14. Karang Nibong
15. Karang Nibong Laut



TURTLE


Turtles has appeared on earth for more than 100 million years, to the age of dinosaurs, with the different that these living dinosaurs are still surviving through the decades, despite that environment on earth has been changing throughout the this period. Studies reports show that it is possible for a turtle to live for hundreds years of time, and this explains why the Chinese society treats turtles as a symbol of longevity. 

Turtles are categorised according to its physical appearance, behavior and nesting site. To your surprise, sex of hatchings is determined by the temperature of the surrounding sand, which a female turtle lays its eggs. A warm nest will result in mostly female hatchings while males are mostly come from a cooler nest. 



There are seven recognized species of sea turtle in the world, which are divided into two families, Dermochelydae and Cheloniidae.  The only species that is categorized in the Dermochelydae family is the Leatherback turtle The rest six species, i.e. Green turtle, Olive Ridley turtle, Hawksbill turtle, Loggerhead, Kemp’s Ridley turtle and Flatback turtle are all belong to the Cheloniidae family. Among these seven species, four choose to nest in Malaysia beaches.
 
 

GETTING THERE


Getting To Kuala Terengganu:

Kuala Terengganu is the East Coast Corridor for Peninsular Malaysia. Kuala Terengganu is the centre for Malay culture and Heritage. Kuala Terengganu is the gateway to the gorgeous Marine Park islands like Perhentian , Redang , Lang Tengah, Bidong, Kapas, Gemia and Tenggol Island. Beside the island Terengganu also offer the world oldest rainforest jungle, Tasik Kenyir (Lake Kenyir) and Tasik Kenyir National Park.



By Air


·    From Kuala Lumpur :
Malaysia Airlines and Air Asia offer daily flights from KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport) to Kuala Terengganu Airport. Journey by air takes approximately 45 minutes. Berjaya Air operates flight from Subang Airport (Kuala Lumpur) to Redang Island (flight journey 1 hour).


·    From Singapore :
There is no direct flight to Kuala Terengganu from Singapore. Travelers must fly via KLIA. If flying via KLIA from Singapore too costly, consider flying from Senai Airport in Johor with Malaysia Airlines or Air Asia, This is cheaper option but takes much longer time due to land transfer from Singapore to Senai. Malaysia Airlines passengers can catch the SPS coach from Singapore to Senai which departs from:


By Coach

Express coaches depart daily from Kuala Lumpur (7 hours), Singapore (9.5 hours), Johor Bharu (9 hours) and Penang (9 hours). The journey includes 2 rest stops or more along the journey for foods, refreshments and toilet stops. The most comfortable coaches (VIP) have 24-32 seats in a 2-1 seating arrangement. The seats are spacious with plenty of leg room. There are also 36-40 seats coaches 4 seats abreast that would as well get you to Terengganu in best comfort. If you are travelling overnight, bring some warn clothing (Jacket/ Sweater). It can be quite cool. Soft or inflatable pillow can help you sleep more comfortably.  Most of the ticket counter only sell one way ticket, passengers may book return ticket plus tour through our company. Night coaches arrive Kuala Terengganu Tanjung Bus Terminal around 5.30am - 6.00am.We also provide free daily pickup 5.30am in the morning from Kuala Terengganu express bus terminal to Travelers center for rest and wash up.


·    Kuala Lumpur (Putra (PWTC) Station)
Journey around 7 hours, ticket can be purchase at Putra bus terminal. Company operate to Kuala Terengganu : TransNasional Tel: +603-4256 8218, Damai Ria, Plusliner, Rangkaian Mewah, Mutiara, Tourworld, SE warisan and Sutra Express. Muatiara and Damai Express offer comfortable 2-1(VIP) seating arrangement.
  •  Kuala Lumpur to K.Terengganu (RM25.10-RM25.70 adult/child)
  • Depart : 9:00am/09:30am/10:00am/21:00pm/21:30pm/22:00pm
  • K.Terengganu to Kuala Lumpur (RM25.10-RM25.70 adult/child) 
  •  Depart : 09:00am/09:30am/10:00am/21:00pm/21:30/22:00pm



By Land (Driving)

Driving by car with friends or loved ones can be pretty much an interesting trip. Aside from the greeneries that can be seen throughout your journey, the fresh air and unpolluted countryside can offer a soughtful experience. Once you get to Terengganu road. The beautiful beaches and blue waters welcome you. Driving travellers are advice to get a map from Tourism Malaysia or any bookstore. (Car Park available at Merang Jetty (Redang Island/Lang Tengah Island), Marang Jetty (Kapas Island), Kuala Besut Jetty (Perhentian Island), Gawi Jetty (Kenyir Lake) and Kenyir Dam (Kenyir Houseboat). Approximate RM5.00 per car per night.)


·   KL to K. Trg (approx. 455 km): 2 option the coastal road or Jerangau Jabor: Highway 2 KL    (Gombak Toll) on Karak Highway and continue with ECE (East Coast Expressway) to Kuantan exit.

·   Highway 3 Kuantan exit to Kuala Terengganu (Coastal road to Kemaman, Dungun and Kuala Terengganu)(223km)



·  Highway 2 KL (Gombak Toll) on Karak Highway and continue with ECE (East Coast Expressway) to Kuantan exit.

·    Highway 3 Kuantan exit to Bukit Besi (20+km) - turn left

·    Highway 14 Bukit Besi turn off to Dungun/Ajil (114km) - turn left

·    Highway 14 Dungun/Ajil to Ajil/Kuala Berang (42km) - turn right

·    Highway 14 Ajil to Kuala Terengganu (35km)



By Train

No Train service available to Kuala Terengganu but if passengers travel to north part of Terengganu like Perhentian Island. Keretapi Tanah Melayu train (KTM) service is available from economy class to comfortable sleeping berth from Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru/ Singapore to Tanah Merah, Wakaf Bahru and Tumpat in Kelantan region. Passengers can stop at Tanah Merah station which is the nearest point to Kuala Besut jetty, about 45 minutes by taxi and 90 minutes to Merang jetty.


·    KERETAPI TANAH MELAYU (KTM):
Call Center (Malaysia-Booking) Tel: +603-2267 1200


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