Kota Kinabalu Leisure Scuba Diving Trip (3 Dives)

This comprehensive review takes an honest look at the highly-rated Kota Kinabalu Leisure Scuba Diving Trip, a popular option for certified divers eager to explore Malaysia’s vibrant marine life. We’ll walk you through what makes this tour stand out, the practical details you need to know, and what travelers like yourself can expect from start to finish.

What we love about this experience:

• The expert guidance from seasoned PADI instructors who have over a decade of local experience, making safety and education a top priority.
• Multiple dive sites in just one day, providing variety and the chance to see different underwater landscapes.
• All-inclusive pricing that covers equipment, permits, lunch, and park fees, offering great value without hidden costs.

A possible consideration:

• The tour is only available to certified divers, so if you’re a beginner or considering getting certified, this might not be the right fit.

Who will love this?
This trip is perfect for seasoned divers looking for a hassle-free, well-guided day out in Sabah’s marine park, or anyone wanting a reliable introduction to diving in a beautiful, safe environment.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Equipment, permits, lunch, and park fees are included, making it straightforward to join.
• Expert Guides: Guides with over 10 years of local diving experience ensure safety and enhance your underwater adventure.
• Diverse Dive Sites: Three unique sites guarantee variety and the chance to see different marine life, including turtles and squids.
• Convenient Location: Departure from Jesselton Point, just 15 minutes from city center, simplifies logistics.
• Ideal for Certified Divers: Only suitable for those already licensed, focusing on a safe, professional experience.
• Limited Group Size: Max 16 travelers, fostering a more personalized, less crowded environment.

An In-Depth Look at the Kota Kinabalu Scuba Tour

Starting Point: Jesselton Point and Morning Logistics

The tour kicks off at Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, a straightforward meeting point in downtown Kota Kinabalu. You’re asked to arrive by 8:45 am for registration, with departure around 9 am. The short 15-minute boat ride takes you directly to the marine park, keeping travel time minimal and maximizing your diving time.

The small group size—up to 16 participants—means more personalized attention, especially important when it comes to safety and instructions. The mobile ticket system adds convenience, letting you skip lines and streamline your check-in.

The Boat and Dive Setup

The use of their own dive boat is a notable plus; it means better control over safety standards and boat logistics. The boat is equipped with full scuba gear, including tanks filled to 200 bar (around 3000 psi), ensuring plenty of air for each dive. Having your equipment ready and provided removes the stress of packing or renting gear elsewhere.

Dive Sites and Experience

The main highlight of this trip is the three dives at three different sites within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. These sites are just 15 minutes from the pier, making the journey quick and comfortable—especially important for those eager to spend more time underwater.

The guide, with over 10 years of local knowledge, will help you navigate each site. According to reviews, guides like “she pointed out a lot of different things in the water, turtles, squid, etc,” which suggests a focus on education and spotting interesting marine life. Divers have enjoyed the experience of deeper reef exploration than they might get from a beach-based snorkel or land-based dive.

Marine Life and What You Might See

Expect to encounter a variety of marine creatures, depending on the site you visit. Reports mention sightings of turtles and squids, and the reef environments tend to be vibrant. The guides’ expertise helps ensure you don’t miss these highlights.

Lunch and Rest at Island Facilities

After your morning dives, you’ll enjoy a la carte lunch at the island’s restaurant. Reviewers note the Malaysian/Asian menu as fulfilling and delicious, with some mentioning the shower, toilet, and prayer room facilities—important amenities for comfort and cultural needs.

The midday break also provides a chance to relax, take in the views, and prepare for the last two dives.

End of the Day: Return and Wrap-up

Diving wraps up around 3:30 pm or 4 pm, with the boat returning to Jesselton Point. The overall tour duration of about 8 hours ensures a full day of underwater exploration without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour offers an impressive all-in-one package. Included are:

• Full scuba gear and tanks (with ample air for each dive)
• Three guided dives
• Bottled drinking water available freely on the boat
• Permits, park and conservation fees
• A la carte lunch

Additional costs are minimal—personal toiletries, towels, insurance, or optional water sports are not included but are typical for this type of tour.

The Experience from a Review Perspective

Reviewers consistently rate this tour a perfect 5.0/5, with 38 out of 39 reviews praising its professionalism and value. One reviewer called it a “great day of diving” with a guide who “gave us a lot of help,” highlighting the importance of knowledgeable guides in making the experience memorable.

Another comment pointed out that “the diving is better off the boat than off the beach,” emphasizing the advantage of traveling to different sites rather than relying solely on shore dives.

Many appreciated the diversity of underwater environments, and the fact that the trip included marine conservation fees shows a commitment to protecting these beautiful ecosystems.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is often booked about 15 days ahead, so plan early.
• Certified divers only: Ensure your certification is valid; this trip isn’t suitable for beginners.
• Prepare for a full day: Arrive early and expect a long, rewarding day.
• Bring personal toiletries: Towels and personal items are not included.
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen and comfortable clothing for the boat ride.
• Hydrate well: Bottled water is provided, but bring extra if you’re particular.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $121.19 per person, the tour packs a lot into a single day—three guided dives, all gear, lunch, and park fees. Given the quality of guides and the variety of sites, it’s a solid investment for seasoned divers wanting a straightforward, professional experience with minimal logistical fuss.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for certified divers seeking a reliable, safe, and well-organized marine adventure. It’s perfect for those who value professional guidance, want to explore multiple dive sites in one day, and appreciate inclusive pricing. If you’re looking for a trip that combines convenience with authentic marine encounters in a beautiful setting, this is a strong contender.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, it’s designed exclusively for certified divers, as it involves multiple dives that require proper certification and experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers full diving equipment, tanks, permits, entrance and conservation fees, boat transfer, and a la carte lunch.

How long is the entire trip?
The whole experience lasts about 8 hours, from departure at Jesselton Point to return, with plenty of time allocated for diving, lunch, and rest.

Where do the dives take place?
Within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, just 15 minutes away from the pier, on three different dive sites.

Can I expect to see marine animals?
Yes, reviews mention sightings of turtles, squids, and various reef fish, with guides pointing out marine life throughout the day.

Do I need to bring anything besides my certification?
Bring personal toiletries, towels, sunscreen, and possibly a waterproof camera if you want to capture underwater moments. All diving gear is provided.

In summary, the Kota Kinabalu Leisure Scuba Diving Trip is a well-rounded, professional, and value-packed adventure that showcases the bay’s underwater beauty through three carefully guided dives. Its focus on safety, convenience, and authentic marine sights makes it an excellent choice for experienced divers eager to explore Sabah’s colorful reefs without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves.

Whether you’re after vibrant coral reefs, encounters with sea turtles, or simply want to enjoy a full day on the water with expert guidance, this tour has the ingredients to make your Sabah trip truly memorable.