Semporna : Pandanan, Mataking & Pom Pom Island Hopping Tour

This island-hopping experience in Sabah offers a chance to see some of Malaysia’s most picturesque islands—all in a single day. While it’s popular among travelers seeking a mix of snorkeling, scenic beaches, and laid-back island vibes, it comes with a few considerations. With reviews highlighting both the beauty and organizational hiccups, it’s clear this tour can be a highlight or a bit of a challenge, depending on expectations.

What we like about this tour are the stunning views from each island—particularly the turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs. The opportunity to snorkel in clear waters teeming with marine life is definitely a plus. Also, having a simple beachside lunch adds to the relaxed vibe. Lastly, the chance to visit multiple islands in one day means you get varied scenery without needing multiple trips. However, some travelers mentioned that the organization and timing could be better, which is worth keeping in mind when booking.

This tour is best suited for those who love snorkeling, enjoy scenic beaches, and don’t mind a busy schedule or some logistical quirks. It’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring Sabah’s islands but are prepared for some unpredictability around the details.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and clear waters make for excellent photo opportunities.
• Multiple islands in one trip offer variety without multiple bookings.
• Snorkeling is a highlight, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.
• Organizational issues like timing and guide communication have been noted.
• Limited beach access on some islands may restrict swimming or sunbathing.
• Suitable for active travelers who enjoy snorkeling and island exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Early Departure

The tour begins at Seafest Jetty in Semporna, a convenient spot next to Seafest Hotel and Starbucks. Expect to arrive at least 15-20 minutes early, as the boat departs sharply at 9:00 AM. The trip involves a 30-minute speedboat ride to Pandanan Island, which sets the tone for a day of island discovery. Keep in mind, this is a shared tour, so group sizes can vary and the guide’s English may be basic, according to some reviews.

Pandanan Island: Snorkeling and Sightseeing

Your first stop, Arcadia Beach Resort on Pandanan Island, is perfect for snorkeling, with two hours allocated for exploration. Here, you’ll get your first glimpse of the underwater world—bright corals and a multitude of colorful fish. The water is clear, making this an ideal spot for underwater photos. However, some reviews note restrictions on beachwear; it’s not allowed to swim in bikinis or costumes at Pandanan, and even men are asked to keep shirts on, which might surprise those expecting more freedom.

Mataking Island: Lunch and More Underwater Fun

Next up is Mataking Island, where you’ll stop for a one-hour beachside lunch. The setting is lovely, with a long sandbar and turquoise sea views. The food is simple but satisfying, served right on the beach, providing a relaxed atmosphere. After lunch, you’ll head back into the water for another hour of snorkeling, exploring vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life.

Some travelers have expressed disappointment that they only had 45 minutes on the island, as one reviewer mentioned, “we were there just to eat and then had to leave immediately.” It’s a reminder to manage expectations—this is a quick trip, not a full day on each island.

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Pom Pom Island: The Quiet Finale

Your final stop is Pom Pom Island, described as a “quiet paradise” with calm waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. You’ll get around an hour here for sightseeing, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the sands. The reviews indicate it’s a peaceful spot with beautiful scenery, although some mention that there are restrictions on entering private or restricted areas, which can limit your exploration.

Return Journey

The boat ride back involves a one-hour cruise to Semporna, with the entire trip wrapping up around 5:00 PM. Some reviews note that the return can be delayed by up to two hours, especially if the boat has to pick up additional guests or wait for weather conditions. This can make the day feel longer than expected, so packing snacks and patience is advised.

What You Can Expect During the Day

Transport and Group Sizes

The shared speedboat is the main transportation mode. It’s relatively quick and offers good views during the ride. The group size varies depending on the day, which can influence the experience—larger groups might feel crowded, while smaller groups could feel more intimate. The guide, according to reviews, speaks both English and Malay, but some travelers experienced communication issues, especially when asking for information or clarifications.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Snorkeling is the core activity, with reviewers praising the vibrant coral reefs and diverse fish populations. The reefs are well-loved by snorkelers for their visual appeal, although a reviewer pointed out that some areas might have plastic pollution, which detracts from the experience. Still, the underwater scenery is generally considered worthwhile.

Beaches and Relaxation

While the beaches are beautiful, access and allowed activities can vary. Pandanan has restrictions on swimwear, which might limit some swimmers. Pom Pom Island offers more privacy and tranquility, perfect for relaxing if you prefer calm waters and less crowded sands.

Food and Refreshments

The included lunch is straightforward—sandwiches, local dishes, or simple snacks—served beachside at Mataking. If you’re a foodie expecting gourmet fare, this might feel a bit basic, but it’s enough to keep you fueled for the day.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Arrive early: The boat departs promptly at 9:00 AM, and check-in begins 15-20 minutes beforehand.
• Bring essential items: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, waterproof camera, and cash for tips or souvenirs.
• Prepare for restrictions: Swimwear policies may limit time on some beaches or in certain areas.
• Snorkel gear: While some tours provide gear, bringing your own mask and snorkel can improve comfort and hygiene.
• Expect some delays: Weather or logistical issues might extend the day, so bring snacks and patience.
• Group sizes vary: If you prefer a more intimate experience, inquire about the group size beforehand.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This island-hopping trip is great for adventurous travelers who love snorkeling and stunning scenery. If you’re eager to see multiple islands in one day and don’t mind a somewhat rushed schedule, this tour offers a cost-effective way to tick off several must-see spots.

However, if you’re a traveler who values more relaxed exploration, private beaches, or full-day stays on each island, you might find this experience a little too quick or organizationally inconsistent. It’s perfectly suited for those OK with some unpredictability, as long as the beautiful underwater and shoreline sights remain the focus.

Final Thoughts

The Semporna island-hopping tour to Pandanan, Mataking, and Pom Pom offers a visual feast of Malaysia’s marine environment and beaches. While it excels in delivering picturesque views, vibrant snorkeling, and a taste of island life—all in a compact package—the experience can sometimes be marred by logistical hiccups and restrictions.

If you’re looking for a value-packed day of underwater adventure and scenic vistas, this tour can be a memorable highlight of your Sabah trip. Just remember to go with flexible expectations, arrive prepared, and focus on the stunning landscapes and marine encounters waiting beneath the surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at Seafest Jetty in Semporna, located in front of Starbucks Semporna next to Seafest Hotel. Be there at least 15-20 minutes early.

How long is the boat ride between islands?
The ride from Semporna to Pandanan is about 30 minutes, then approximately 15 minutes to Mataking, and around an hour to Pom Pom. The return trip also takes about an hour.

What activities are included?
Snorkeling at each island, sightseeing, and relaxing on beaches are the main activities. Lunch is included on Mataking Island.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s not ideal for babies under 1 year or seniors over 95, mainly due to boat rides and activity pace. Always check with the provider for specific needs.

Are there any restrictions on beachwear?
Yes, at Pandanan Island, swimming in bikinis or costumes is not allowed, and even men are asked to keep shirts on.

How much time do we get at each island?
You’ll have about 2 hours at Pandanan, 1 hour for lunch and snorkeling at Mataking, and around 1 hour at Pom Pom. Keep in mind some reviews mention limited time on islands.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, waterproof camera, beachwear, cash, and possibly snorkeling gear if you prefer your own.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, if sea conditions are unsafe, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled. Always check weather forecasts.

Does the tour include a guide?
Yes, a shared guide who speaks English and Malay will accompany the tour, but communication may vary.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, some reviews mention pollution issues around certain islands. Responsible snorkeling and waste disposal are encouraged.

This comprehensive review should help you decide whether this island-hopping day trip aligns with your travel style and expectations. It’s a balance of breathtaking scenery, lively underwater life, and some logistical quirks—definitely worth considering if you’re ready for a busy but rewarding day in Sabah.

You can check availability for your dates here: