If you’ve ever dreamed of floating amidst colorful corals and curious fish without diving certification, the RAID Try-Dive here is a solid choice. For $112 per person, you get roughly seven hours of guided snorkeling and beginner-friendly scuba in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine National Park, just off Kota Kinabalu’s coast. The experience involves two leisurely dives (max depth about 40 feet or 12 meters), boat transfers on top-notch vessels, and a relaxed island lunch.

What we really love about this experience is the small group setting and the friendly instructor who makes beginners feel safe and confident. Plus, the chance to see exotic marine life—like clown fish (the famous Nemo)—and perhaps a turtle or two makes it worthwhile. The only caveat? You’ll need to arrive prepared for a full morning and early afternoon commitment, and if you’re not comfortable swimming, this may not be the best fit.

This tour is ideal for first-time divers or travelers who want a taste of the underwater world without committing to a full certification course. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate professional guidance and want to keep things simple yet memorable.

Key Points

Beginner-friendly with two shallow dives, max 12 meters
Small group size ensures personalized attention
Includes boat transfers and lunch on an island
Marine diversity with coral reefs, clown fish, and possibly turtles
No prior experience needed, but basic swimming skills are required
Affordable value for an authentic underwater adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Underwater Introduction in Kota Kinabalu

Exploring the marine life off Sabah’s coast doesn’t always require advanced certification or deep-water expertise. This RAID Try-Dive experience strikes a balance between safety and adventure, offering a guided introduction to the underwater world that feels both manageable and exciting.

The itinerary begins early at Jesselton Point Jetty, where your guides will meet you with a “Borneo Dream” sign, ready to take you on a boat to the marine park. The boats are described as some of the best in Kota Kinabalu, which matters because comfortable and reliable transport can turn a good outing into a great one.

Once aboard, you’ll get a brief educational session that covers basic diving skills—crucial for first-timers—making sure everyone feels prepared. This practical, hands-on instruction is delivered by knowledgeable guides who are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, as one reviewer noted. Afterward, it’s time to put those skills into practice in a calm, protected bay, where you’ll enjoy your first shallow dive, observing coral formations and tropical fish.

The second dive is similar but in a different part of the reef, offering new sights and experiences. Expect to see vibrant corals, busy fish, and maybe a turtle if luck is on your side. The marine environment in this part of Sabah is part of the Coral Triangle, renowned for its diverse and healthy reefs.

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The Lunch and Island Experience

Following your dives, you’ll have a well-earned break on Pulau Sapi or Pulau Mamutik—two of the five islands within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The included lunch is described as relaxed, with the option to enjoy local flavors or just unwind with ocean views. This downtime is a highlight, giving you time to reflect on your underwater glimpses and soak up the island atmosphere.

The boat transfers are described as comfortable, and the entire day flows at a relaxed pace, making it suitable even for those new to water sports or with limited stamina. The tour concludes back at Jesselton Point around mid-afternoon, leaving plenty of time to explore Kota Kinabalu afterward.

The Value and What It Means for You

At $112, this experience offers excellent value for the quality of instruction, boat transportation, and access to pristine reefs. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a guided, safe introduction to scuba diving without a full certification. Since gear is included and the group sizes are small, you’ll get enough personal attention to build confidence and enjoy the activity.

The fact that all safety standards are adhered to and that the tour is suitable for those aged 10 and older makes it accessible for families or solo travelers alike. However, participants should be comfortable in water and in good health, as they will need to self-certify and avoid flying for at least 18 hours after the experience.

Who Will Really Enjoy This?

If you’re a first-timer curious about underwater exploration, this is a perfect introduction. If you value small groups and professional guides, you’ll find the experience both reassuring and fun. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see clown fish, corals, and maybe a turtle in their natural environment.

It’s also ideal for travelers who want to combine a day on the water with island relaxation and good local food. While it’s not the cheapest activity in Kota Kinabalu, the quality of instruction, safety measures, and marine encounters make it a worthy investment.

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Final Thoughts

The RAID Try-Dive in Kota Kinabalu offers a well-organized, authentic opportunity to experience Borneo’s stunning coral reefs without the need for certification. The tailored small-group approach and friendly guides help make the day both safe and memorable. You’ll love the expert guidance and the chance to see marine life up close in a protected park setting.

For those who want a low-pressure, guided introduction to scuba, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s suitable for families, first-timers, and anyone eager to tick off a bucket-list underwater adventure while enjoying Sabah’s natural beauty.

For travelers seeking a fun, educational, and scenic day that’s packed with genuine marine encounters, this RAID Try-Dive is a smart choice. Just remember to bring your swimming confidence, and be ready to get wet and marvel at the underwater world.

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FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes. The tour is open to anyone 10 years or older, provided they are comfortable in the water and have basic swimming skills.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
While you don’t need to be an expert swimmer, you should be comfortable swimming and in good overall health, as you’ll self-certify before participating.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the educational session, two shallow dives (up to 12 meters), high-quality gear, boat transfers, a professional instructor, refreshments, lunch, and fees related to conservation and jetty access.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes. You might need to pay for a Sabah Parks diving permit (RM 125 for non-Malaysians, RM 58 for Malaysians). Hotel pickup and private instruction are available at extra cost.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 7 hours, starting around 9:00 am and returning mid-afternoon, though check actual availability for exact starting times.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and a sense of adventure. All gear and refreshments are provided.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the activity includes conservation fees, and guides emphasize respecting marine environments. Notably, the reefs here are part of a protected national park, emphasizing sustainable tourism.

To sum it up, whether you’re a curious first-timer or someone eager to dip your toes into the underwater world, the RAID Try-Dive in Kota Kinabalu offers a practical, well-supported, and genuinely enjoyable introduction to marine exploration. It combines safety, learning, and fun—all set against the stunning backdrop of Sabah’s vibrant coral reefs.

You can check availability for your dates here: