Semporna : Mataking Island Hopping with snorkel shared tour

Experience the Beauty of Semporna: Mataking Island Hopping with Snorkel

If you’re looking for a day packed with stunning coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and vibrant underwater wildlife, the Mataking Island Hopping tour offers all that and more. For $69 per person, you’ll join a well-organized day trip from Semporna that takes you to three beautiful islands—Timba Timba, Pom Pom, and Mataking—all within a single day. The tour begins early, around 8:00 AM, with a friendly guide leading you through a packed itinerary designed for travelers eager to experience Sabah’s best marine scenery.

What we love about this tour is how it combines various activities—from exploring coral reefs and taking photos to relaxing on pristine beaches. The second thing that stands out is the opportunity to witness turtle conservation efforts on Mataking, which adds a meaningful touch to the adventure. That said, a potential consideration is the long boat transfers—roughly 45 minutes at a stretch—that could be tiring for some. Still, if you’re looking for a comprehensive island-hopping experience packed with snorkeling and sightseeing, this tour hits the right notes, especially for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation.

This tour suits travelers who want an affordable, all-in-one day of island exploration with plenty of water activities. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but eager to see Sabah’s underwater wonders and relax on stunning beaches. However, those with mobility issues or expecting a very leisurely pace might want to consider the physical demands of boat transfers and snorkeling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Marine Diversity: Coral reefs teeming with marine life make this a snorkeler’s paradise.
• Unique Tidal Feature: During low tide, you can walk between two islands—an unusual and fun experience.
• Beautiful Beaches: Excellent spots for sunbathing and relaxing between activities.
• All-Inclusive Package: Includes boat transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, and park entry fees, offering good value.
• Early Start & Long Transfers: Prepare for an early day with boat rides of up to 45 minutes each way.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for active travelers, but less so for those with mobility concerns or very young children.

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Semporna to the Islands

The adventure kicks off at the Infinity Scuba Dive Centre in Semporna, with a meeting around 8:00 AM. The process is straightforward, and the staff are friendly, providing a briefing along with your snorkeling equipment and life jackets. The early start means you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler morning air as you set off on a speedboat ride of approximately 45 minutes to your first stop, Timba Timba Island.

The boat rides are part of the charm, offering scenic views of the bay and the chance to glimpse local fishing boats and floating villages. The boat is generally comfortable, with enough space for your gear and a friendly crew ready to assist throughout the day. As one traveler noted, “The boat felt secure, and I appreciated the smooth ride despite some choppiness.”

Timba Timba Island: First Impressions and Sightseeing

Arriving at Timba Timba Island around 9:30 AM, you’ll have about two hours to explore. This island is known for its bright coral reefs visible just offshore, perfect for snorkeling if you want to get an early start. The shallow waters and clear visibility make it accessible for beginners, and you might find yourself swimming alongside schools of colorful fish and curious sea turtles—if you’re lucky.

Many visitors comment on the tranquil atmosphere and photogenic views, especially during the low tide when you can walk across the sandbar to another small island. It’s a special moment to stand on the connecting sand, feeling like you’re part of a natural bridge. The island itself boasts white sandy beaches that invite stretching out on a towel or taking a quick stroll.

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Continuing to Pom Pom Island: Lunch and Leisure

At around 11:30 AM, the tour continues with a short boat ride of 30 minutes to Pom Pom Island, where a packed lunch awaits at the resort around noon. The lunch is simple but satisfying—think sandwiches, fruits, and drinks—offering fuel for the afternoon activities. The resort area provides a relaxing setting with views of the water, perfect for some downtime after the morning’s snorkeling.

Post-lunch, you’ll have about an hour for snorkeling again, with the chance to see more marine life in the coral gardens. Many reviews appreciate the well-organized schedule, which balances sightseeing with enough leisure time to enjoy the surroundings.

The Highlight: Mataking Island and its Marine Life

At around 2:30 PM, the boat heads to Mataking Island, famous for its coral reefs and turtle conservation efforts. Here, a dedicated snorkeling session of about an hour allows you to witness vibrant marine ecosystems. Sometimes you might even spot a turtle or two—an unmissable experience for lovers of marine life.

Travelers often praise Mataking for its crystal-clear waters and healthy coral. One reviewer shared, “It felt like swimming in an aquarium. The variety of fish and coral was astonishing.” The island also offers the chance to walk across during low tide, providing a fun, almost surreal walk between islands.

Returning to Semporna

After the afternoon snorkeling on Mataking, the group boards the boat for the final 45-minute ride back to Semporna, arriving around 5:00 PM. The day’s journey wraps up with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights and plan your evening in Semporna.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The diversity of stops packs a lot into a single day: from coral reefs and snorkeling to relaxing on white beaches and walking across sandbars. The inclusion of park entry fees and snorkeling equipment makes it a good value, as you won’t need to worry about extra costs. The friendly guides and organized schedule ensure that the experience feels smooth and enjoyable, even for first-timers.

We also love the fact that the tour actively involves conservation efforts—a rare and meaningful aspect that adds depth beyond just sightseeing. Seeing turtles and understanding efforts to protect them adds an ethical dimension to your fun-filled day.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the boat rides—up to 45 minutes each way—which can be tiring, especially in choppier waters. Also, the schedule is quite packed, leaving little time for extended relaxation or exploring the islands on your own. If you prefer a very leisurely pace, you might find this tour a bit full-on.

Ideal for Who?

This tour suits active travelers who enjoy snorkeling, island scenery, and a structured day of exploration. It’s perfect for those on a budget wanting an all-in-one experience or travelers who want to see Sabah’s marine wonders without committing to multiple days or diving courses.

The Sum Up

The Semporna Mataking Island Hopping tour offers a well-rounded taste of Sabah’s aquatic and island paradise. It’s especially appealing to snorkelers and beach lovers who want to spend a full day exploring diverse environments—coral reefs, sandbars, and beaches—without breaking the bank. The inclusion of park entry fees, snorkeling gear, and lunch makes it a straightforward, value-packed option.

While the boat rides can be a bit long, the chance to see vivid marine life and walk across sandbars makes up for it. The tour captures the essence of Sabah’s coastal beauty and offers enough variety to keep even the most enthusiastic travelers engaged.

If you’re looking for a practical, enjoyable, and reasonably priced way to explore Sabah’s islands—especially if you love snorkeling and scenic beaches—this tour is worth considering. Just pack your water gear, sun protection, and a spirit of adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour involves boat rides of up to 45 minutes and snorkeling, so it might not be ideal for very young children, elderly travelers, or those with mobility issues. It’s best suited for active, adventurous families or adults comfortable with water activities.

What should I bring for the tour?
You should bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, sandals, drinks, sunscreen, a waterproof camera, beachwear, a swimming cap, toiletries, a waterproof bag, and quick-dry clothing. Remember, alcohol and drugs are not allowed.

Are the snorkeling equipment and life jackets provided?
Yes, the tour includes snorkeling gear and life jackets, so you can enjoy the underwater sights safely.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with food allergies?
The lunch is a standard packed lunch, typically including sandwiches and fruits. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to contact the tour provider beforehand.

Can I buy souvenirs or additional food on the islands?
The tour includes a packed lunch and drinks, but there may be opportunities to buy snacks or souvenirs if you explore the island areas during free time.

Is there a possibility to see turtles during the tour?
Yes, you might be lucky to see turtles on Mataking, as the island is involved in turtle conservation efforts.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through the provided booking platform, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Payment can be made later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This comprehensive review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect and help you decide if this island-hopping tour aligns with your Sabah adventure. With its blend of underwater beauty, scenic walks, and relaxing beaches, it’s a day that many travelers cherish as a highlight of their Malaysian trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: