3 Semporna Islands Tour with Snorkel or Diving Experience
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8h
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About this experience
Explore Timba-timba, Mataking, and Pandanan's stunning coastline and islets. Discover the island's secret marine life in gorgeous blue seas by swimming, snorkeling, or DSD diving.
A speedboat will take the group from the Semporna jetty to Timba Timba site. Ideal for exploration with calm waters that everyone can enjoy, explore the many nearby reefs. Before entering the water, you'll get safety instructions. Put on your gear and practise in shallow water to gain confidence. Swimming with rare tropical fish is also possible.
After that, have a lovely home-cooked lunch. Take it easy and enjoy the trip. Mataking Island is the second stop. It has a lovely beach where you can swim or dive into the clear blue water. Pandanan Bay is the third and last destination. Enjoy a swim or unwind in the beautiful blue sea, and take some time to explore the beach. The boat journey and free time may last longer depending on weather and sea currents. We'll return to the dock after the third island.
Available options
2 Diving + 1 Snorkeling Trip
2 DSD Diving + 1 Snorkelling: DSD diving does not require an advanced license or experience; our diver will guide you<br/>Duration: 7 hours: The tour will have a duration of 7-8 hours, but the end time may vary depending on the sea conditions.<br/>Lunch and drinks ONLY: Lunch, 1 bottle of 1.5 litre of mineral water without extra cost<br/>Speedboat
3 Snorkeling Trip
3 Snorkelling: Three snorkelling for full duration stop.<br/>Duration: 8 hours: The tour will have a duration of 7-8 hours, but the end time may vary depending on the sea conditions.<br/>Lunch and drinks ONLY: Lunch, 1 bottle of 1.5 litre of mineral water without extra cost<br/>Speedboat
What's included
Dock Taxes
1 Bottled water (1.5 litre)
1 Lunch box
Multilingual instructors on how to snorkel or dive
Life jacket
Jetty Fee
Scuba diving gears, Fins, BCD regulator, Gauge and Oxygen Tank or Cylinder (for diver only)
2 DSD diving for 20 minute each and 1 snorkelling for whole stop duration (if selected only)
3 Snorkelling trip for whole stop duration (if selected only)
Mask, Snorkel, Towel (both snorkelling and diving)
Taxes
Swim stops all along the day
Day boat tour
Instructor
Detailed itinerary
1
Explore the rich variety and awe-inspiring coral formations present on the islands of Mataking, Timba Timba, and Pandanan with three snorkeling or two DSD dive plus one snorkeling activity.
A speedboat will depart from the Semporna jetty to the first island, Timba Timba Island which should be taking approximately one hour or more. Arrival time may be affected by weather conditions, currents, and the number of guests. We will notify if the starting time change due to weather condition so please take note on your WhatsApp.
2
Timba-Timba Island is a popular destination for island hoppers who anticipate idyllic beach vacations due to its long, white powdery beach and picturesque location. We will remain on the island for approximately 30 minutes. Guests may choose to embark on a brief walk without a guide.
Upon boarding the boat, we will proceed with our first snorkeling or DSD diving around the island. Prior to entering the water, you will receive a safety briefing and instructions on how to operate the snorkeling or diving equipment, if required.. As always, our guide will aid you.
3
After that, spend about one hour savoring a great local homemade lunch in the distinctive scenery or islands. All you have to do is unwind and enjoy the trip; stroll around the beach for a little break.
The second stop is Mataking Island, where you can snorkel or DSD dive with guide into the blue waters of this secluded coral island, which is known for being home to Malaysia's first 'Underwater Post Office' and is connected to Pulau Mataking Kecil (Small Mataking Island) by a narrow sand bank.
4
The third stop is Pandanan Bay, located in the Celebes Sea, relatively undeveloped and primitive, providing a tranquil experience for visitors. The island is entirely surrounded by a coral reef where you can snorkel or relax in the blue waters of these remote locations.
Once this is concludes, we will return back to jetty. Depending on sea currents and the weather, a boat trip and leisure time may last longer depending on the sea conditions.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Personal expense
Pandanan Island conservation and entry fee
Mataking entry fee
Available languages
Guide guide
MS
EN
ZH-CN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
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3 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The itinerary may be modified at the discretion of the weather, government and sea condition.
Timba timba island beach has been closed by government instructions until further notice.
Seeing sea turtles is possible by luck, but by no means guaranteed, as it is wild environment.
No scuba diving certificate is required (for DSD diving)
We dive in shallow water with an average depth of 2,5 meters, max 6meters only.
Please advise the weather, sea & government approval may hinder the tour starting and ending time, the sea current is something we cant control.
Please wear wetsuit if you have it.
The tour run in rain or shine unless government instructions.
Meeting point
Your crew will meet at the Jetty Pelancongan Semporna and search for Sea Gypsies Travel shop. Kindly head to this maps before the tour commencement time, from there, we will notify you via whatsApp or reservation message a day before arrival. A valid reservation is required, not possible walk in.
About Semporna
Semporna is a coastal town in Sabah, Malaysia, known as the gateway to the stunning islands of the Celebes Sea. It's a haven for divers and nature enthusiasts, offering some of the best diving spots in the world, including the world-famous Tun Sakaran Marine Park and the famed Mabul Island. The town itself is a vibrant mix of cultures, with a rich history and a laid-back atmosphere.
Top Attractions
Tun Sakaran Marine Park
A protected marine park featuring stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and pristine beaches. It's a paradise for divers and snorkelers.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive (depending on tour packages)
Mabul Island
A small island known for its shallow reefs, muck diving, and the famous Mabul Water Bungalows. It's a popular spot for divers and those looking for a relaxing island getaway.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive (depending on tour packages)
Mataking Island
A beautiful island with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. It's known for its luxury resorts and tranquil atmosphere.
Nature
Half day to full day
Expensive (due to luxury resorts and exclusive tours)
Sipadan Island
One of the world's top diving destinations, Sipadan Island is famous for its incredible marine biodiversity, including large schools of barracuda, turtles, and sharks. It's a must-visit for serious divers.
Nature
Full day
Expensive (due to limited permits and exclusive tours)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ikan Bakar
Grilled fish, often served with spicy sambal sauce, rice, and vegetables. The fish is usually fresh and locally caught.
Main Course
Contains fish, gluten-free if no soy sauce is used
Laksa
A spicy noodle soup with a rich, flavorful broth, typically made with seafood or chicken. It's a popular dish in Sabah and a must-try for visitors.
Main Course
Contains seafood or chicken, gluten-free if noodles are rice-based
Nasi Lemak
Coconut milk-infused rice served with spicy sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and boiled eggs. It's a popular breakfast dish but can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Main Course
Contains fish, gluten-free if no soy sauce is used
Satay
Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with peanut sauce. Common meats include chicken, beef, and pork, but seafood versions are also available.
Snack
Contains meat or seafood, gluten-free if no soy sauce is used
Popular Activities
Diving
Snorkeling
Island hopping
Kayaking
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Resort hopping
Visiting local markets
Best Time to Visit
March to October (Dry season)
This is the best time to visit Semporna for diving and island hopping. The weather is dry, and the seas are calm, making it ideal for water activities.
24°C to 32°C
75°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Malay
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese dialects (e.g., Hokkien, Cantonese), Local indigenous languages
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Semporna is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local community. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and transport services
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Tawau Airport • 100 km (62 miles) from Semporna
By bus
Semporna Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are available but not very extensive. They are affordable and connect the town to some of the surrounding areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Jetty Area
Beachfront
Day trips
Tun Sakaran Marine Park
Boat ride from Semporna • Half day to full day
A protected marine park featuring stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and pristine beaches. It's a paradise for divers and snorkelers.
Mabul Island
Boat ride from Semporna • Half day to full day
A small island known for its shallow reefs, muck diving, and the famous Mabul Water Bungalows. It's a popular spot for divers and those looking for a relaxing island getaway.
Mataking Island
Boat ride from Semporna • Half day to full day
A beautiful island with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. It's known for its luxury resorts and tranquil atmosphere.
Festivals
Kaamatan Harvest Festival • May to June (dates vary each year)
Hari Raya Aidilfitri • Varies each year (depends on the lunar calendar)
Chinese New Year • January or February (dates vary each year)
Pro tips
- Book your diving and island hopping tours well in advance, especially during peak season, as they can fill up quickly
- Bring your own snorkeling gear if you have specific preferences, as rental equipment may be limited or of lower quality
- Pack light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen, as the tropical climate can be hot and humid
- Learn some basic Malay phrases to enhance your cultural experience and interact with locals
- Respect the marine environment by following responsible diving and snorkeling practices, and avoid touching or damaging coral reefs
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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