Tucked away in the heart of Semporna, this exhilarating day trip offers travelers a chance to explore the stunning marine wonders of Mabul and Kapalai. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a snorkeling enthusiast, this flexible excursion promises an unforgettable adventure, with a seamless booking process and a generous cancellation policy to ensure a hassle-free experience. From the scenic speedboat transfer to the guided activities and the diverse array of marine life, this excursion invites you to learn about the breathtaking beauty of this tropical paradise. But what lies beneath the surface is where the true magic begins.
Key Points
- Comprehensive day excursion from Semporna to Mabul and Kapalai islands, known for vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Tour duration of approximately 6.5 hours, including sightseeing, snorkeling, and optional diving activities.
- Flexible booking with "reserve now & pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Speedboat transfers and all necessary snorkeling and diving gear provided, with multilingual instructors for guidance and safety.
- Suitable for both snorkelers and divers, offering opportunities to observe turtles, butterflyfish, and other colorful marine species.
Trip Overview
The Mabul and Kapalai trip offers a comprehensive day excursion from Semporna, transporting participants via speedboat to explore the vibrant coral reefs and picturesque scenery of these two renowned destinations.
Priced reasonably from $59.37 to $55.80 per person, the 6.5-hour tour includes a mix of sightseeing, snorkeling, and optional diving at both islands. Guests can enjoy swimming, observing marine life, and indulging in a provided lunch box.
With options to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this excursion provides an accessible and flexible way to experience the natural wonders of Mabul and Kapalai.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Semporna.
Destination and Duration
This Mabul and Kapalai trip originates from the town of Semporna, located in the easternmost state of Sabah, Malaysia.
The destination is the islands of Mabul and Kapalai, known for their vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
The full-day excursion lasts approximately 6.5 hours, with round-trip boat transfers taking 80 minutes to reach Mabul and 15 minutes to reach Kapalai.
The itinerary includes sightseeing, snorkeling, and diving activities at both islands, providing ample opportunities to explore the underwater wonders of this stunning region.
Booking and Cancellation
Customers can reserve this Mabul and Kapalai trip with a "reserve now & pay later" option. This provides the flexibility to secure the booking without immediate payment.
What’s more, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows travelers to change their plans without penalty should unexpected events arise.
The overall pricing for the 6.5-hour tour ranges from $59.37 to $55.80 per person, making it a cost-effective way to explore these stunning islands.
With a convenient booking process and flexible cancellation policy, this trip offers a hassle-free experience for those seeking to discover the natural beauty of Mabul and Kapalai.
Boat Transfer and Activities
The tour begins with a speedboat transfer from the Dragon Inn floating hotel to the island of Mabul, which takes approximately 80 minutes.
Once on Mabul, guests enjoy sightseeing with breaks for 1.5 hours.
Then, they’ve the opportunity to go snorkeling or diving around Mabul for 40 minutes.
Next, the speedboat takes them to Kapalai, where they can snorkel or dive for another 40 minutes.
Finally, the tour returns to the Dragon Inn, which takes about an hour.
Throughout the journey, participants can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, and lunch.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyNatural Beauty and Landscape
Vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and colorful fish await visitors to Mabul and Kapalai. The unique landscape of these islands offers a stunning backdrop for your adventure.
Among the highlights are:
- Mabul’s resort coastline, featuring a picturesque blend of land and sea.
- Kapalai’s remote and pristine environment, free from development.
- The opportunity to marvel at the scenic beauty and tranquility of these tropical islands.
- The close proximity to the renowned Sipadan, a world-class diving destination, making Mabul and Kapalai a popular choice among divers.
These natural wonders create a truly memorable experience for visitors seeking to enjoy the beauty of Sabah’s marine environment.
Marine Life and Diving
One of the main draws of this trip is the opportunity to witness the diverse marine life that thrives in the waters around Mabul and Kapalai. Snorkelers and divers can expect to see a variety of colorful fish, including turtles, butterflyfish, and other captivating species. The close proximity to the renowned Sipadan diving site also makes this trip a popular choice among experienced divers. To enhance the experience, the tour provides all necessary snorkeling and diving gear, along with the guidance of multilingual instructors.
| Marine Species | Mabul | Kapalai |
|---|---|---|
| Turtles | ✓ | ✓ |
| Butterflyfish | ✓ | ✓ |
| Coral Reefs | ✓ | ✓ |
Included Equipment and Gear
The tour provides all the necessary snorkeling and diving gear, including masks, snorkels, fins, BCDs, regulators, and oxygen tanks. These items are included in the tour package, ensuring participants have access to high-quality equipment for their underwater adventures.
The included gear consists of:
- Snorkeling equipment: mask, snorkel, and fins.
- Scuba diving gear: BCD, regulator, and oxygen tank.
- Multilingual instructors to provide guidance and safety briefings.
- Lunch box and bottled water to keep participants fueled and hydrated during the day.
With all the necessary equipment and support provided, guests can focus on enjoying the stunning marine life and beautiful scenery of Mabul and Kapalai without worrying about gear logistics.
Participant Requirements and Safety
Participants must meet certain requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the Mabul and Kapalai trip.
No scuba diving certificate is needed for the Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) option, but the activity isn’t suitable for individuals with respiratory issues.
Safety is paramount, and participants must follow the safety briefings provided by the instructors.
It’s also crucial to respect the marine environment by not removing or damaging any wildlife.
While the itinerary is carefully planned, weather and sea conditions may occasionally affect the schedule.
Participants should register with their full name and nationality as per their passport at least 24 hours before the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling/Diving Equipment?
Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling or diving equipment. However, the package includes the necessary gear, so using the provided equipment is recommended to ensure compatibility and safety during the activities.
Is Transportation From My Hotel to the Starting Point Included?
The trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so transportation from your hotel to the starting point at Dragon Inn (Floating Hotel) is included. This convenient service is part of the tour package.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Trip?
The trip does not have a minimum number of participants required. The booking can be made for a solo traveler or a group, and the tour will operate regardless of the group size.
Can the Trip Be Customized to Suit My Preferences?
The trip can be customized to suit the traveler’s preferences. While there’s no minimum participant requirement, the tour operator may be able to accommodate special requests, such as additional activities or modified itineraries, depending on availability and feasibility.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges During the Trip?
There are a few additional fees or charges during the trip. Participants must pay the Mabul Island Resort entrance fee (50 MYR per person, cash only) separately. Any personal expenses, such as extra meals or rentals, would also incur additional costs.
Recap
This day trip from Semporna offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the stunning marine landscapes of Mabul and Kapalai. With flexible booking, snorkeling and diving options, and all necessary equipment provided, it’s an ideal excursion for nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable tropical adventure. The tour’s generous cancellation policy and focus on safety ensure a worry-free experience amid the vibrant coral reefs and diverse underwater wildlife.
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