RAID Try-Dive in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

If you’ve ever dreamed of breathing underwater but aren’t quite ready for a full certification, the RAID Try-Dive in Kota Kinabalu offers an excellent way to dip your toes into scuba diving. While I haven’t personally done this tour, the detailed reviews, comprehensive itinerary, and overall high ratings paint a clear picture of a memorable, safe, and well-managed introduction to the aquatic world of Sabah.

What truly catches our eye about this experience are three standout features: small-group personalized attention, expert guidance from friendly instructors, and stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life. The inclusion of two leisure dives along protected islands makes this not just an activity but a genuine adventure.

However, one consideration is that this experience is designed for absolute beginners and has a maximum depth of about 12 meters (roughly 40 feet). That means it’s not for experienced divers or those seeking extensive underwater exploration.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers, first-timers, or anyone wanting a safe, fun, and educational glimpse into the underwater world of Borneo. If you’re comfortable in water and eager to see the vibrant coral reefs, this could be a fantastic choice.

Good To Know

• Beginner-friendly: Designed for those new to scuba diving with a focus on safety and education.
• Two guided leisure dives: Dive in sheltered bays and coral reefs, with a maximum depth of around 12 meters.
• Small group size: Ensures personalized attention from friendly, professional instructors.
• Included amenities: High-quality gear, boat transfers, refreshments, and lunch in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.
• Ideal location: Located near Kota Kinabalu, within the stunning TARP — part of the Coral Triangle.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with options to reserve and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the RAID Try-Dive Experience in Kota Kinabalu

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off bright and early, with the tour beginning at 9:00 am at Jesselton Point Jetty in central Kota Kinabalu. This is a convenient starting point — most hotels are within walking distance or a quick taxi ride. Once you meet the friendly Borneo Dream team, they’ll escort you to the boat, which departs for the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The boat itself is described as one of the best in Kota Kinabalu, promising a smooth and comfortable ride to the islands.

Your morning includes a briefing and safety session—crucial for those new to scuba. The instructor will walk you through the basics and help you feel confident before getting into the water. Expect about 30 minutes for this, including completing some forms and a short skills session in a confined water area.

What to Expect in the Water

The first dive is typically in a protected bay, perfect for beginners. Here, you’ll practice basic skills like breathing with a regulator, clearing your mask, and controlling your buoyancy—all essentials to making your underwater experience safe and enjoyable. Reviewers have noted the instructors are knowledgeable and fun, which makes learning feel natural rather than intimidating.

After a break on land for lunch, you’ll gear up for the second leisure dive. This one takes you along coral reefs where you can expect to see a stunning display of tropical marine life. Reviewers have mentioned spotting clown fish—”Nemo”—and occasionally turtles, making the underwater adventure even more memorable.

The Lunch and Island Relaxation

Lunch is served on one of the islands, either Pulau Mamutik or Pulau Sapi. These islands are part of the Marine National Park and are perfect spots for relaxing after your morning activities. The lunch is included, giving you a chance to refuel and enjoy scenic island views, which are just as much a part of the experience as the underwater exploration.

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Return Journey and Reflection

By about 3:30 pm, the boat departs back to Jesselton Point, arriving around 4:00 pm. This gives you plenty of time to unwind, share stories, and reflect on your aquatic adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $112 per person, this experience packs in two guided dives, high-quality gear, boat transfers, lunch, and educational instruction—all with small group attention. Considering the inclusion of professional guides and safety equipment, many travelers find it offers excellent value for a memorable introduction to scuba diving.

The reviews reinforce this value. Amanda shared, “We saw a turtle twice in our diving session,” highlighting how even beginners can encounter wildlife that makes the experience special. Cynthia praised the professionalism of the guides and the amazing locations they took her to, emphasizing the quality of the overall experience.

Small Group and Personalized Attention

One of the highlights for many is the small group size, which ensures instructors can give each participant personalized guidance. This is critical for beginners, helping you feel secure and confident in the water. The friendly, multilingual instructors deliver short but thorough safety briefings, making sure you’re comfortable before plunging into the marine environment.

Safety and Comfort

The tour strictly adheres to PADI standards, with clear instructions and support at each step. All gear—fins, masks, wetsuits—is high quality, and the boat transfers are smooth and reliable. For non-swimmers or those concerned about water comfort, the shallow depths and sheltered bays provide a controlled environment to test out your new skills.

The Marine Environment

Located within the Coral Triangle, Sabah’s waters boast incredible marine biodiversity. Reviewers mention an awe-inspiring variety of corals, exotic fish, and the chance to see turtles if luck’s on your side. The reefs are easy to navigate, and the protected nature of the bays means calm waters with excellent visibility.

Implementation and Practical Tips

Timing is flexible but typically starts around 9:00 am. The tour lasts about 7 hours, giving ample time for instruction, two dives, lunch, and transfers. The early start helps avoid afternoon winds or weather changes that can affect visibility and boat rides.

Group size is small, meaning the instructor can focus on each diver, making it an ideal choice for nervous first-timers or those seeking a relaxed pace.

What’s not included? The tour doesn’t provide hotel pickup, but Jesselton Point is central and easily accessible. Optional private instruction is available at extra cost, though most reviews indicate the group setting is sufficient and enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is perfect for beginners, families, or anyone curious about exploring marine life without a full certification commitment. If you’re comfortable in water and eager to observe vibrant coral reefs, you’ll find this experience rewarding. It’s also well-suited for those who want a safe, guided introduction with a focus on fun and education.

While not suitable for people with respiratory issues or those who prefer deep-sea adventures, it’s excellent for anyone looking to gain confidence in the water, enjoy wildlife sightings, and learn the basics of scuba in a tropical paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior diving experience?
No, this is a beginner-friendly experience designed for those with no prior diving skills. You will receive instruction before your dives.

What is the maximum depth I will reach?
The second dive will go to a maximum of about 12 meters (roughly 40 feet), which is safe and manageable for beginners.

Are equipment and gear included?
Yes, high-quality gear including wetsuits, masks, fins, and regulators are provided as part of the tour.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a relaxed lunch on an island in the Marine National Park is included in the tour price.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 9:00 am and returning by mid-afternoon.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for travel plans.

What languages are available for instruction?
Guides speak Chinese, English, and Malay, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is this activity suitable for children or teenagers?
Yes, participants must be at least 10 years old and comfortable in water, making it accessible for older children and teens.

Is there a requirement to stay on the island afterward?
No, the tour concludes back at Jesselton Point Jetty, and you’re free to continue exploring Kota Kinabalu or relax afterward.

What if I want a private guide?
Private instruction is available at an extra charge, but most reviews indicate small-group tours offer ample personalized support.

Final Thoughts

The RAID Try-Dive experience in Kota Kinabalu offers a fantastic, safe, and engaging way to explore Sabah’s underwater treasures. With expert guides, a relaxed pace, and the chance to see vibrant coral reefs and marine life, it’s an adventure that suits curious travelers eager to sample scuba without diving certification.

The inclusion of all essential gear, boat transfers, lunch, and small-group attention means you’re getting excellent value. The tour’s flexibility and emphasis on safety make it a prime choice for first-time divers, families, or anyone wanting a fun, educational day in the sea.

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the magic beneath the waves of Borneo, this might just be the perfect starting point. Just remember to bring your sense of wonder and a readiness to get wet—your underwater adventure awaits.

Ready to explore the vibrant marine life of Sabah? This tour is a promising, well-organized introduction to scuba that balances fun, safety, and education. It’s a great choice for those who want to see the reefs without a long-term commitment, and reviews indicate it delivers on its promise of memorable, personalized experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby