The jungle-meets-river setting of Sandakan offers Malaysia’s most rewarding boat excursions. Top experiences include the evening Mangrove-Firefly cruise, where countless fireflies create nature’s light show, and the wildlife-rich Kinabatangan River cruises, where you’ll likely spot proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and possibly wild orangutans.
I especially love the 2D1N private tours combining river cruises with the Sepilok Orangutan Centre – they provide the best value and most intimate wildlife encounters. Smart travelers book directly with local operators to save money and get more authentic experiences.
Let’s explore the best boat tours Sandakan has to offer.
Good To Know
- The Mangrove Cruise with Fireflies Tour is a popular shared excursion from Sandakan, offering a chance to witness the stunning firefly phenomenon.
- The Kinabatangan River Cruise provides a personalized wildlife-focused experience, with a maximum group size of 15 and local dinner included.
- The Borneo Kinabatangan River Cruise Day Trip offers an evening river cruise and shared transportation, but may have mixed reviews on wildlife sightings and communication.
- The 2D1N Sandakan Private Tour provides a customizable experience, including visits to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Kinabatangan River, with roundtrip transportation and diverse meal options.
- Local operators generally offer better value and personalized experiences for boat tours and cruises in Sandakan, with wildlife encounters often a key attraction.
Mangrove Cruise With Fireflies Tour Including Dinner From Sandakan
The Mangrove Cruise with Fireflies Tour Including Dinner is a popular excursion that whisks visitors away from the bustling town of Sandakan to experience the serene beauty of the mangrove forests.
Offered by MAM Holidays Malaysia, the tour takes guests on a sharing basis mangrove cruise where they can witness the stunning natural phenomenon of fireflies lighting up the night sky.
The tour package includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking driver, and a buffet dinner featuring local cuisine.
While the cruise itself is the highlight, travelers are also treated to an initial snack before setting out on the water.
According to reviews, the mangrove cruise and firefly viewing are beautiful experiences, though the tour has received some criticism for an unnecessary island visit and occasional lack of fireflies.
Read our full review: Mangrove Cruise With Fireflies Tour Including Dinner From Sandakan Review
Book now: Check availability
Kinabatangan River Cruise From Sandakan
MAM Holidays Malaysia’s Kinabatangan River Cruise from Sandakan offers visitors a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of one of Malaysia’s most renowned river ecosystems.
The tour, priced from $89.75 per person, takes guests on a seat-in-coach journey to experience the Kinabatangan River’s rich wildlife and diverse habitats. With a maximum group size of 15 travelers, the cruise promises an intimate and personalized experience.
The inclusion of a local dinner, an afternoon river cruise, and an in-house guide ensures a comprehensive and enjoyable tour.
However, the tour has received mixed reviews, with some travelers praising the wildlife sightings while others expressing dissatisfaction with the transport quality and tour company reliability.
Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Read our full review: Kinabatangan River Cruise From Sandakan Review
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Borneo Kinabatangan River Cruise Day Trip
Exploring the winding waterways of the Kinabatangan River in Borneo, the Borneo Kinabatangan River Cruise Day Trip from Sandakan offers visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s lush natural landscapes and diverse wildlife. Priced at SEK 879.57 per person, the tour includes return shared transportation, an evening river cruise, dinner, and an English-speaking coordinator.
The pickup locations are conveniently situated across Sandakan, with the tour starting at 12:00 PM. While the tour can accommodate up to 20 travelers, it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for those with back problems, heart issues, or serious medical conditions, nor for pregnant women or those in wheelchairs.
Reviews for the tour are mixed, with some travelers reporting excellent wildlife sightings and praising the staff, while others complain about long wait times, poor communication, and high prices compared to local booking options.
Many suggest booking directly with local operators for better value and more personalized experiences, especially for overnight stays that may offer greater wildlife encounters.
Read our full review: Borneo Kinabatangan River Cruise Day Trip Review
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2D1N Sandakan Private Tour With Kinabatangan River Cruise
Embarking on a private tour of Sandakan, this 2-day 1-night experience immerses travelers in the heart of Borneo’s natural wonders.
The 4.5/5 rated “2D1N Sandakan Private Tour with Kinabatangan River Cruise” offers an immersive journey, from the iconic Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to the serene Kinabatangan River.
Priced from $290 per person, the tour includes roundtrip transportation, overnight accommodation, and a mouthwatering selection of meals.
Activities span a boat ride and sightseeing, allowing visitors to spot an abundance of wildlife in their natural habitats.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour caters to dietary needs and recommends strong physical fitness.
With a badge of excellence and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this private tour provides a seamless and customizable experience for groups.
As highlighted by positive reviews, the tour packs a punch, delivering an unforgettable Bornean adventure.
Read our full review: 2D1N Sandakan Private Tour With Kinabatangan River Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Life Jackets Provided During the Boat Tours?
Life jackets are typically provided for all passengers during boat tours. This is a standard safety measure to ensure the well-being of guests and comply with regulations. Participants can expect life jackets to be available throughout the duration of the tour.
Is There a Weight Limit for Passengers on the Boats?
Most boat tours have a weight limit for passengers, typically ranging from 80 to 120 kilograms. Operators require this for safety reasons and to ensure the boat’s stability. Passengers should check with the tour provider for specific weight restrictions before booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Passengers can generally bring their own food and drinks on boat tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Are the Boats Wheelchair Accessible?
The boats typically offer wheelchair accessibility, allowing passengers with mobility challenges to participate in the tours. Passengers should check with the tour operator to confirm accessibility and make any necessary arrangements prior to the scheduled departure.
Are the Tours Suitable for Young Children?
The tours are generally suitable for young children, though parents should check with the tour operators for specific details on child-friendly features and policies. Many operators offer discounts or special accommodations for families with young kids.
The Sum Up
Sandakan offers an array of captivating boat tours and cruises. The Mangrove Cruise with Fireflies Tour, the Kinabatangan River Cruise, and the Borneo Kinabatangan River Cruise Day Trip provide unique opportunities to explore the region’s rich natural wonders. For a more comprehensive experience, the 2D1N Sandakan Private Tour with Kinabatangan River Cruise offers an immersive journey through the area’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.