Borneo is renowned globally as a biodiversity hotspot, yet few locations illustrate the delicate balance of marine life quite like Turtle Island Park. Located approximately 40 kilometres north of Sandakan in the Sulu Sea, this protected area consists of three islands: Selingan, Bakungan Kecil, and Gulisan. Of these, Selingan—commonly referred to as Turtle Island—is the primary destination for visitors. It serves as a vital sanctuary for endangered Green and Hawksbill turtles, offering them a safe haven to lay their eggs away from the threats of development and predation.
For travellers interested in wildlife, a visit to Turtle Island Borneo provides a rare opportunity to observe one of nature’s most ancient rituals. However, this is far from a typical island getaway. The park exists primarily for conservation rather than recreation. Understanding the rules, the history, and the reality of the experience is essential before you book your boat transfer. This guide outlines what happens on the island and how visitors can support these critical preservation efforts.
The Conservation Mandate
Turtle Island Park holds significant historical value as the first transboundary protected area for sea turtles in the world. Since its gazettement in 1977, the park has operated with a singular focus: the survival of sea turtle populations. The beaches here are monitored every night by dedicated rangers who patrol the shoreline to locate nesting mothers.
The conservation work involves a rigorous routine. Rangers wait for a female turtle to finish laying her eggs before approaching. They measure the turtle, check for existing tags or apply a new one if she is a first-time visitor. This data helps researchers track population trends and migration patterns. Perhaps most importantly, the eggs are collected immediately and transferred to a central hatchery. This manual relocation is necessary to protect the clutch from natural predators like monitor lizards, birds, and snakes, as well as from soil erosion and tidal inundation.
Despite these efforts, the challenges remain substantial. Marine pollution, including discarded fishing nets and plastic waste, poses a constant threat to adult turtles. Rising sea levels and changing global temperatures also impact the gender of the hatchlings, as the sex of sea turtles is determined by the temperature of the sand incubation. The park authority works tirelessly to mitigate these risks, maintaining a safe environment where thousands of hatchlings are released back into the ocean annually.
Planning Your Logistics
Reaching Turtle Island requires some forward planning. The park limits the number of daily visitors to protect the ecosystem, meaning permits and accommodation often sell out months in advance. You must book through a licensed tour operator, as independent travel to the island is not permitted. The journey begins at the jetty in Sandakan, with a speedboat ride taking approximately one hour.
While turtles nest year-round, the peak season runs from July to October when the seas are calmer and turtle landings are more frequent. Visiting during these months increases your chances of seeing multiple landings and hatchling releases. However, even in the off-peak season, the dedication of the rangers guarantees that the conservation work continues regardless of visitor numbers.
Preserving A Natural Legacy
Turtle Island Borneo offers more than just a sightseeing trip; it provides an education in environmental stewardship. The survival of the Green and Hawksbill turtles depends heavily on the protected status of islands like Selingan. By visiting, you contribute financially to these operations, but your responsibility extends beyond the price of the ticket. Adhering to strict guidelines and respecting the habitat is crucial. Seeing a wild sea turtle nest is a privilege that stays with you long after you leave the island, reinforcing the urgent need to protect our oceans for future generations.