Join us for a RAID Try Dive in Kota Kinabalu

Experience the Underwater Magic of Kota Kinabalu with a RAID Try Dive

Imagine spending a day exploring the vibrant waters of Borneo’s Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, right off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. For $110 per person, this 6-hour beginner-friendly tour provides a safe, well-supported introduction to scuba diving with professional guides and all equipment provided. Starting at Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, you’ll gear up with your instructor, learn some basic skills in shallow water, then venture out for a reef exploration. After a delicious lunch, the adventure continues with a boat trip to a second, more substantial dive — always with your instructor nearby.

What we love most about this experience is how it prioritizes small group ratios—a maximum of 4 students per instructor—ensuring personalized attention and safety. Plus, all gear, permits, and water are included, so you won’t be caught off guard by hidden costs. We also appreciate the easy meeting point at Jesselton Point, making logistics straightforward. The only consideration? If you’re less comfortable on boats or in water, you’ll want to be prepared for a day that involves some physical activity.

This tour is perfect for beginners curious about what lies beneath the waves, or travelers looking for a memorable, guided introduction to scuba diving without committing to a full certification. It’s particularly suited to those who enjoy small, relaxed groups and want expert supervision throughout. If you’re after a safe, approachable way to dip your toes into the underwater world, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Small group ratio of 4:1 ensures personalized attention and a relaxed experience.
• All equipment and permits are included, simplifying planning.
• Two dives — one reef and one boat dive — offering a well-rounded introduction.
• Lunch is provided, making it a convenient full-day activity.
• Easy meeting point at Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal.
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and no prior diving experience.

A Deep Dive into the RAID Try Dive Experience

When contemplating a scuba experience in Kota Kinabalu, many travelers ask about safety, comfort, and value. This RAID Try Dive ticks all these boxes by combining professional instruction, manageable group sizes, and a focus on fun. Let’s explore what makes this trip worth considering, and what you might expect along the way.

The Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

This marine park is a popular spot for underwater adventurers, thanks to its calm, clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. It’s the perfect setting for beginners, offering shallow, protected areas ideal for learning. The Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal serves as the starting point, a hub easily accessible in downtown Kota Kinabalu, facilitating a smooth start to your day.

The Itinerary: How the Day Unfolds

Your day begins at 9:00 am, when you meet your instructor at Jesselton Point. You’re greeted with a quick verbal briefing: what to expect, safety protocols, and equipment overview. This is where the small group size makes a difference; with a maximum of 12 people, you don’t feel lost in a crowd.

First, you’ll don your gear — full dive equipment is provided — and head into shallow waters for skills introduction. Here, your instructor, such as Alex as mentioned in reviews, will guide you through basic breathing techniques, mask clearing, and buoyancy control. The calm, patient approach helps many beginners feel more at ease, even if it’s their first time in the water.

The next step is a reef dive, where you’ll see corals buzzing with marine life. Here, you can expect to spot various fish, and perhaps even some larger creatures like sea turtles, as noted by a recent reviewer. The reef is the highlight for many, offering a colorful, close-up view of marine biodiversity.

After lunch, included in the tour, you’ll head out for a second dive—this time a proper boat dive. The instructor remains by your side, ensuring safety and comfort. This part of the day is perfect for those who want to experience more of what the underwater environment offers without the commitment of a full certification.

The Experience: What Makes It Stand Out

The small group ratios truly shine here. As one review highlights, “The crew never gave any signs of dissatisfaction or impatience,” which is crucial when trying something new. You’re cared for every step of the way, whether it’s adjusting your buoyancy or calming nerves.

Another aspect that stands out is the professional, insured staff. The guide’s expertise reassures even the most anxious participants, and the inclusivity of all gear, permits, and water makes the logistics simple.

The Lunch and Logistics

The tour includes a hearty lunch, which adds to the value. Sitting on the boat or at a scenic spot, it’s an opportunity to relax and share stories with fellow travelers. The return to Jesselton Point around 4:00 pm wraps up a full, enriching day.

The meeting point at Jesselton Point is convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby or using public transportation. The tour also offers return collections, reducing stress on your end.

Reviews & Authentic Feedback

Travelers consistently rate this experience a perfect 5 out of 5. Liang_D shares, “It is a nice experience with Alex. My first time try diving and I feel safe under water with his help:),” emphasizing the safety and friendliness of the guides. Similarly, TamsKszegi notes, “The crew never gave any signs of dissatisfaction or impatience,” and mentions seeing five huge sea turtles, highlighting the potential for memorable wildlife encounters.

This consistent positive feedback underscores that, despite being a beginner-level experience, it offers authentic, rewarding dives that can spark a lifelong interest in marine exploration.

Pricing & Value

At $110 per person, the tour provides great value considering the inclusiveness of equipment, permits, lunch, and expert guidance. Small groups and personalized instruction mean you’re investing in safety and quality, not just a generic tour. For anyone curious about diving but hesitant to commit long-term, this is an excellent, low-pressure way to try it out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for beginners or those with moderate physical fitness looking for a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving. It’s perfect if you want a small-group atmosphere and personalized attention. Travelers eager for marine life sightings, like turtles and colorful reefs, will find this particularly appealing. It’s also well-suited for those traveling in Kota Kinabalu wanting a full-day, hassle-free underwater adventure with all logistics taken care of.

The Sum Up

If you’re considering a safe, well-organized, and authentic underwater experience in Kota Kinabalu, this RAID Try Dive is hard to beat. It offers a chance to see marine life, learn new skills, and share a memorable day with like-minded travelers—all in the relaxing setting of Borneo’s stunning waters. Whether you’re a complete newbie or someone who just wants an easy, guided introduction, this tour delivers value and genuine fun.

For those who want to explore beyond the typical sightseeing, it’s a wonderful way to connect with the sea and gain confidence in a controlled environment. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure and an open mind—you might find yourself hooked on the underwater world after just one day.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
All diving equipment, lunch, drinking water, park and permit fees, professional and insured staff, and return transportation from Jesselton Point are included.

Do I need prior experience to join?
No, this tour is designed for beginners and those with no previous diving experience. The instructor will teach you all the basic skills needed.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12, with a preferred ratio of 4:1 students to instructors, ensuring personalized attention.

When does the tour start and end?
It begins at 9:00 am and typically concludes around 4:00 pm, with all activities centered at Jesselton Point.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, a towel, sunscreen, and a moderate physical fitness level are recommended. All diving gear is provided, so no need to bring your own.

Is this suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While the experience is designed for beginners, a moderate level of physical fitness is suggested. It’s best to discuss individual concerns with the tour provider beforehand.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

If you’re eager to explore Kota Kinabalu’s underwater world without a long-term commitment, this RAID Try Dive offers a safe, fun, and professionally guided introduction that’s hard to match.