Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant city in Malaysian Borneo, offers an unforgettable adventure with the "Snorkeling & Island Hopping Sapi & Manukan" tour. Explore the crystal-clear waters, indulge in a delicious buffet, and bask on stunning beaches – all while enjoying the guidance of a knowledgeable local. This seven-hour excursion promises to immerse you in the breathtaking beauty of Sabah’s marine life and scenic landscapes. But the real question is, are you ready to embark on this island-hopping escapade?
Key Points
- This 7-hour tour offers snorkeling, beach time, and water sports activities on the islands of Sapi and Manukan near Kota Kinabalu.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, boat transfers, a buffet lunch, and the use of snorkeling gear and life jackets.
- Guests can choose between English or Malay-speaking guides and have the option to book private guides in additional languages.
- Customers have provided positive feedback on the tour, highlighting the friendly guides, good visibility for snorkeling, and the relaxing atmosphere.
- Additional activities like scuba diving, banana boat rides, and parasailing are available for an extra fee.
Activity Overview
The activity titled "Kota Kinabalu: Snorkeling & Island Hopping Sapi & Manukan" offers visitors a 7-hour tour priced from $68.09 per person.
A 7-hour Kota Kinabalu snorkeling and island-hopping tour to Sapi and Manukan Islands, priced from $68.09 per person.
Guests can opt for hotel pickup and enjoy the tour in English or Malay. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
The day begins with a boat ride to Sapi Island for snorkeling, beach time, and water sports, followed by a picnic lunch.
Next, guests depart for Manukan Island to explore the snorkeling, beaches, and trails.
The tour concludes with a scenic boat ride back, catching the sunset.
Included are boat transfers, lunch, gear, and a guide.
Into underwater exploring? These other snorkeling spots in Kota Kinabalu might work for you
Itinerary Details
Departing at 8:00 AM from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal after optional hotel pick-up, the tour begins its journey.
Upon arrival at Sapi Island around 8:30 AM, guests can enjoy snorkeling, beach relaxation, and water sports.
At noon, a picnic lunch or café visit is provided.
At 1:00 PM, the group departs for Manukan Island, where they’ll explore the island through snorkeling, beach activities, and nature trails.
The tour returns to Jesselton Point around 3:15 PM, just in time to catch the sunset on the boat ride back.
Included Services
The tour’s Included Services cover the essentials for an enjoyable island-hopping and snorkeling experience.
These services include:
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Boat transfers to and from the islands, ensuring a seamless journey.
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A buffet lunch, providing a delightful midday meal to refuel.
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Life jackets and snorkeling gear, allowing you to explore the underwater world with ease.
Plus, the tour includes a beachside picnic, a knowledgeable guide, and complimentary use of the islands’ facilities.
Personal expenses and tips aren’t covered, allowing you to customize your experience as desired.
Optional Activities
Along With the included services, the tour offers several optional activities for those seeking a more adventurous experience. Thrill-seekers can choose from scuba diving, banana boat rides, and parasailing, with additional fees applying. For those interested in a more personalized experience, private guides are available in various languages, including Mandarin, English, Japanese, and Korean.
| Activity | Price (RM) |
| — | — |
| Scuba Diving | N/A |
| Banana Boat Ride | N/A |
| Parasailing | N/A |
| Private Guide (Mandarin) | 200 |
| Private Guide (English) | 200 |
| Private Guide (Japanese) | 300 |
| Private Guide (Korean) | 300 |
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
Travelers offer an overall positive assessment of the Kota Kinabalu snorkeling and island hopping experience, rating it 4.1 out of 5 stars based on 51 reviews.
Highlights include:
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Friendly and organized guides.
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Beautiful islands with great visibility for snorkeling (up to 15 meters noted).
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Relaxing atmosphere with opportunities for sunbathing and exploring.
Reviewers such as Pranav from Malaysia described it as a "magnificent experience", while David from the United States found the "great activity" to be "very relaxing".
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Important Information
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, waterproof camera, cash, and a waterproof bag are recommended items to bring for the Kota Kinabalu snorkeling and island hopping tour.
The weather can be unpredictable, so the tour may be canceled due to severe weather or unsafe sea conditions. Guests will receive a full refund in such cases.
Departure times are estimated, so participants should check with the tour provider if transportation is delayed. The itinerary is subject to change based on weather and sea conditions.
Getting to Kota Kinabalu
Getting to Kota Kinabalu is straightforward, with several transportation options available.
Visitors can:
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Fly into Kota Kinabalu International Airport, which serves domestic and international routes.
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Take a bus from nearby cities like Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru. The journey typically takes 6-8 hours.
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Arrive by train, with connections from major Malaysian cities to Kota Kinabalu’s train station.
Once in the city, it’s easy to access the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, the departure point for the snorkeling and island hopping adventure.
What to Expect on the Tour
The [CURRENT SUBTOPIC] tour begins with a prompt departure from the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, where guests can expect to embark on a scenic boat ride to the first island destination, Sapi Island.
Upon arrival, the group will have the opportunity to snorkel, relax on the beach, and participate in various water sports. After a picnic lunch or café visit, the tour will continue to Manukan Island, where guests can explore the island through snorkeling, beach activities, and nature trails.
The day concludes with a boat trip back to Jesselton Point, timed to capture the stunning sunset.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Know How to Swim for This Activity?
For this snorkeling and island hopping activity, swimmers and non-swimmers can both participate. Life jackets are provided, allowing everyone to safely explore the underwater world and enjoy the islands’ beaches and amenities.
Is the Snorkeling Equipment Provided Suitable for Children?
The snorkeling equipment provided is suitable for children. It includes life jackets and properly fitted snorkel masks, ensuring safety and comfort for all participants, regardless of age or swimming ability.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, a buffet lunch is already included in the tour package, so bringing additional items is optional. Snacks and water are recommended to have on hand during the day.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Water Sports Allowed?
The activity allows various water sports, though some may have additional fees. Guests can expect to enjoy snorkeling, beach activities, and nature trails during the island visits. Specific restrictions on water sports are not mentioned in the details provided.
How Difficult Is the Nature Trail on Manukan Island?
The nature trail on Manukan Island is relatively easy, with well-maintained pathways suitable for most visitors. It offers scenic views and opportunities to explore the island’s natural surroundings at a leisurely pace.
The Sum Up
The "Snorkeling & Island Hopping Sapi & Manukan" tour is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu. With its stunning natural beauty, abundant marine life, and delightful activities, it’s the perfect way to take in the region’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or seeking a relaxing day in the sun, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse of Sabah’s breathtaking coastal wonders.
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