Discover Sailing Experience in Tanjung Aru Beach

A Practical Look at the Discover Sailing Experience in Tanjung Aru Beach

If you’re dreaming of feeling the wind in your hair and the splash of sea water on your face, the Discover Sailing Experience at Tanjung Aru Beach offers a chance to try your hand at sailing in some of Malaysia’s most scenic waters. For $84.57 per person, you get about two hours of hands-on learning, with a focus on practical skills and enjoying the tropical South China Sea. The meeting point is Waterfly Borneo in Tanjung Aru, just outside Kota Kinabalu, making it easy to access after a day exploring the city or relaxing on the beach.

What we love about this experience is the personalized coaching and stunning views. You’ll get the chance to learn how to steer and maneuver a 470 class dinghy directly under the supervision of a skilled coach. Plus, the natural beauty of the coastline, with Kota Kinabalu’s skyline in the background, makes every moment memorable. Also, life jackets and bottled water are provided, which adds a layer of comfort and safety.

On the flip side, a notable consideration is the safety and suitability for beginners. According to one review, the experience may not be ideal if you don’t already have some sailing basics, as the safety briefing might not be thorough. It’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and some familiarity with sailing concepts or those eager to learn in a supportive environment.

This tour is perfect for small groups or individuals who appreciate scenic coastal views and want a hands-on introduction to sailing. If you’re looking for a relaxed, personalized activity that emphasizes practical learning and stunning scenery, this could be a good choice. However, if you’re a complete beginner seeking a highly structured safety orientation, you might want to consider your comfort level or look for additional instructions elsewhere.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Views: Enjoy stunning vistas of Tanjung Aru Beach and Kota Kinabalu’s skyline while sailing.
• Hands-On Learning: Get practical experience with steering, tacking, and gybing, guided by an experienced coach.
• Personalized Guidance: The experience caters to individual needs, with coaching and feedback.
• Limited for Complete Beginners: Some reviews suggest it’s not well-suited for those without basic sailing knowledge.
• Weather-Dependent: The activity relies on good weather; cancellations are possible if conditions are poor.
• Includes Essentials: Use of a sailboat, life jackets, and bottled water are included, making it straightforward and convenient.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

What’s Included and What’s Not

Starting with the basics, your ticket covers the use of the sailboat, life jackets, and bottled water, which means you won’t need to worry about renting equipment or bringing your own safety gear. Since this is a private tour for your group, the experience is tailored and intimate, allowing for more personalized coaching.

On the flip side, you’ll need to bring your own beach attire and sun protection, as these are not included. Given the tropical climate of Sabah, sunblock, a hat, and lightweight clothing are advisable, especially considering you’ll spend time on the water under the sun.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Waterfly Borneo, where you’ll receive a safety briefing and an introduction to the international 470 class dinghy. This part of the experience is crucial—learning about the boat’s controls and safety measures sets the stage for a safe and enjoyable time on the water.

Next, you’ll get on-water orientation, familiarizing yourself with the boat’s handling. The coach will guide you through fundamental sailing maneuvers—steering, tacking, and gybing—providing personalized feedback along the way. This practical component is where you’ll begin to feel confident handling the boat, albeit with close supervision.

Finally, the experience wraps up with a Q&A session and a brief debrief, giving you an opportunity to clarify any doubts and reflect on what you’ve learned. The entire activity is subject to weather conditions, and the itinerary may shift based on the day’s circumstances and your progression.

The Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on learning by doing. Instead of just watching others sail, you’re actively involved. The scenic backdrop of Kota Kinabalu’s coast and the South China Sea enhances the experience, making every maneuver more memorable.

However, a word of caution—reviewers have pointed out that it may not be the best choice for absolute beginners who haven’t had any sailing experience. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s not safe for beginners. They are not serious people,” emphasizing the importance of having some basic sailing knowledge beforehand. If you’re completely new to sailing, consider preparing yourself with some preliminary reading or skills.

Cost and Value

At roughly $85, the price is fairly typical for a semi-private, practical sailing session in a scenic location. The inclusion of the boat, safety gear, and water makes it straightforward, but the value hinges on your expectations. If you’re seeking a relaxed day with scenic photos and a gentle introduction, this is a good fit. For those wanting a comprehensive sailing course or more in-depth instruction, you might find this experience a bit limited.

Who Should Consider This?

This experience suits adventurous travelers eager to try sailing in a tropical setting, those with some sailing background, or individuals seeking a personalized outdoor activity. If you’re looking for a safe, beginner-friendly introduction with lots of safety instructions and structured lessons, this may not be the best choice. However, if you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and want to enjoy the coastal views while learning, it could be a highlight of your trip.

Final Thoughts

For travelers who enjoy authentic, scenic, and practical experiences, the Discover Sailing in Tanjung Aru offers an engaging way to connect with Malaysia’s beautiful waters. Its focus on hands-on learning and the chance to share the boat with a knowledgeable coach make it a memorable activity if your expectations are aligned.

Keep in mind the weather dependence and the limited scope for complete beginners. It’s best suited for those with some sailing familiarity looking to refine their skills or simply enjoy a unique coastal adventure. The experience’s focus on personalized coaching and breathtaking views makes it worth considering for an active day on the water.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
According to reviews, it may not be ideal for those without any sailing experience. The safety briefing might not be very comprehensive, so some basic knowledge or confidence on water is recommended.

What do I need to bring?
You should bring beach attire and sun protection, such as sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The tour provides life jackets and bottled water.

How long is the activity?
The sailing experience lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable activity that won’t take up your whole day.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If conditions are poor, the activity may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers use of the sailboat, life jackets, and bottled water. No extra equipment rentals are necessary.

Can I join this tour alone or only in a group?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Waterfly Borneo at Tanjung Aru, near Kota Kinabalu. The activity starts at 1:00 pm.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a curious traveler eager to learn a new skill amid stunning scenery, this Tanjung Aru sailing experience offers a unique taste of Malaysia’s maritime charm. Just remember to temper expectations if you’re new to sailing, and enjoy the chance to be out on the water in such a beautiful setting.