Kota Kinabalu: Party Boat Day Tour – A Complete Guide

If you’re looking to combine lively watersports with relaxing island time, the Kota Kinabalu: Party Boat Day Tour promises just that. This six-hour adventure offers an energetic mix of fun activities, scenic cruising, and island exploration, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of everything the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park has to offer.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the unique Floating Clubhouse on Gaya Island where you can slide, kayak, or just soak up the vibe. Second, the buffet lunch with ocean views is surprisingly tasty for a boat meal, offering a break from the sun and sea. And third, the visit to Sapi Island provides a laid-back spot for photos and relaxing on soft sands.

However, a possible consideration is that the tour involves a good amount of water-based activity, which may not suit those with mobility issues or who prefer a more static experience. Still, it’s a fantastic choice for those craving an active, fun-packed day with plenty of opportunities to cool down and unwind. This tour is best suited for energetic travelers, families, or groups eager to enjoy both land and sea in one day.

Key Points

  • Diverse Activities: Kayaking, water slides, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and relaxing on the deck.
  • Unique Features: The Floating Clubhouse offers an unusual experience with music, sea slides, and water sports.
  • Scenic Cruising: Enjoy beautiful boat rides between Gaya Island and Sapi Island with excellent photo opportunities.
  • Delicious Buffet: Onboard lunch with ocean views provides a satisfying break.
  • Flexible Schedule: Free time at Sapi Island to explore or relax as you wish.
  • Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Party Boat Tour

Kota Kinabalu: Party Boat Day Tour - The Experience: What to Expect on the Party Boat Tour

Setting off from DBKK Jetty, the tour begins early at 9:00 AM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a full day of island fun. The first highlight is the Floating Clubhouse at Gaya Island, which is a real treat. You’ll find sea slides, paddle boards, and snorkel gear ready for use. The reviews note that the sea slide is a favorite, with travelers raving about how exhilarating it is, especially when combined with the live music ambiance on deck. The floating platform is a clever way to add a sense of adventure and novelty to your day.

The water sports are optional but well worth trying, especially since the kayaking and paddle boarding are included in the package. Expect to spend around 2 hours here, with plenty of opportunities to cool off and get active. The snorkeling gear is available, and reviewers mention spotting marine life, enhancing the feeling of being part of an aquatic playground.

The Buffet Lunch and Continued Fun

At noon, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch on board while soaking in the panoramic views. This meal is described as tasty and filling, with enough variety to satisfy different tastes. The cruise crew ensures everyone is well-fed before diving back into the water activities or relaxing on the deck with music.

Post-lunch, the water sports continue, so if you’re still feeling energetic, more kayaking, paddleboarding, or snorkeling awaits. This flexibility helps cater to varying energy levels across the group.

Visiting Sapi Island

Around 2:00 PM, the boat heads towards Sapi Island, a highlight for many travelers. The island’s reputation as a scenic yet laid-back destination means you can spend your time unwinding on the soft sands, snapping photos, or swimming in the clear waters. The “free and easy” time at Sapi Island, as stated in the itinerary, is perfect for exploring at your own pace or just lounging under the sun.

Reviewers mention that the photo opportunities are plentiful, with the island’s stunning backdrop providing excellent shots. The 1 hour here feels just enough to relax without feeling rushed, especially since the boat departs back at 3:10 PM.

The Return Journey

The cruise back to DBKK Jetty offers a chance to reflect on a day filled with sun, sea, and activities. The entire experience wraps up around 3:10 PM, leaving plenty of time afterward to explore Kota Kinabalu further or relax after a busy day.

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What We Love About the Tour

Kota Kinabalu: Party Boat Day Tour - What We Love About the Tour

The Floating Clubhouse is a real standout, giving a sense of novelty with its sea slides and vibrant atmosphere. The combination of water sports and relaxing island time offers a balanced day, appealing to both adventure seekers and those who prefer lounging. The scenic boat rides between stops add to the overall experience, with reviewers noting the beautiful views and smooth cruising.

The buffet lunch is surprisingly good for a boat meal, with many mentioning the generous portions and fresh flavors. Plus, the flexibility during the free time on Sapi Island means you can tailor your experience—whether you want to snorkel, take photos, or just soak up the sun.

Practical Details and Tips

Kota Kinabalu: Party Boat Day Tour - Practical Details and Tips

  • The tour lasts 6 hours, beginning at 9:00 AM, so plan your day accordingly.
  • Meeting at DBKK Jetty requires arriving at least 30 minutes early, so factor in transport time.
  • Remember to bring your passport, sunscreen, a sun hat, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture the moments.
  • Water activities are optional but highly recommended if you’re eager to make the most of the water sports gear provided.
  • The tour is conducted in English, and the provider has a decent rating of 3.9, indicating reliable service.
  • The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, due to the water-based nature.

Is It Worth the Price?

Kota Kinabalu: Party Boat Day Tour - Is It Worth the Price?

Compared to other island excursions, this tour offers good value for a full day of activities, especially considering the all-included water sports, lunch, and transportation. The opportunity to try multiple water sports with minimal hassle, combined with the unique floating clubhouse experience, makes it appealing for those looking for an active yet relaxing day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy water sports and a lively atmosphere. Families with children who are comfortable with water activities could also enjoy it, provided they meet the age and mobility requirements. It’s a great option for groups looking for a balanced mix of fun and relaxation in a tropical setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum age for the water activities?
The tour information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it involves water sports, younger children or those uncomfortable with water might need supervision or might prefer to relax on the boat.

What should I bring on the tour?
You should bring your passport, sunscreen, a sun hat, comfortable shoes, a camera, and swimwear or comfortable clothes suitable for water activities.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

How long is the free time at Sapi Island?
You’ll have about an hour for photo-taking, relaxing, or exploring at Sapi Island before the boat departs.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is served onboard with ocean views, giving you a chance to recharge after water activities.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While non-swimmers can enjoy relaxing on the deck or on the island, participating in water sports like kayaking or snorkeling might be limited unless they are comfortable being in shallow water with supervision.

To sum it up, this Kota Kinabalu Party Boat Day Tour combines lively water activities, scenic cruising, and island leisure into a well-rounded day. It offers good value with plenty of options to stay active or simply unwind. If you’re after a day filled with fun, sun, and a splash of adventure, this tour is likely to tick many boxes. Just remember to pack sunscreen, your camera, and your sense of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: