Boat tours in Kota Kinabalu deliver real bang for your buck, with options that fit any traveler’s style. The Klias Wetlands tour stands out as my favorite – you’ll spot bizarre-looking proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat, followed by an enchanting firefly display at dusk. I’m also impressed by the snorkeling excursions to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, where crystal-clear waters reveal an underwater paradise.
For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, the evening dinner cruise hits all the right notes: good food, live music, and spectacular sunset views of the city skyline. The practical perks – hotel pickups and flexible booking policies – make these outings hassle-free.
Let’s explore the best boat tours worth your time and money in Kota Kinabalu.
Key Points
- Klias River Cruise offers diverse wildlife sightings, including proboscis monkeys and crocodiles, as well as stunning firefly displays at night.
- Proboscis Monkey and Fireflies River Cruise provides a 2.5-hour tour with wildlife viewing, local snacks, and dinner, accommodating up to 20 travelers.
- Klias Wildlife Safari River Cruise combines afternoon wildlife cruises and evening firefly viewing, offering a comprehensive nature experience with amenities.
- Sky-Mirror Photographing Tour allows for proboscis monkey and firefly spotting, with professional assistance in capturing the best shots.
- Fun Boat Snorkeling Tour provides a full-day experience with snorkeling, lunch, and wheelchair accessibility, catering to various traveler needs.
Borneo (Klias) River Cruise & Fireflies Tour
A popular eco-tourism activity in Kota Kinabalu, the Borneo (Klias) River Cruise & Fireflies Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the region’s diverse wildlife and natural wonders.
During the daytime river cruise, guests can spot proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, and silver langurs, as well as hornbills and crocodiles.
The evening firefly viewing experience is described as “like Christmas trees,” with bioluminescent water and clear night skies enhancing the experience.
The tour includes a Malaysian buffet dinner, with generally positive reviews from travelers. However, some have noted logistics issues and mixed opinions on the dinner quality.
Read our full review: Borneo (Klias) River Cruise & Fireflies Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sky-Mirror Photographing and Proboscis Monkey & Fireflies Watching River-Cruise
For those seeking a unique wildlife and photography experience, the Sky-Mirror Photographing and Proboscis Monkey & Fireflies Watching River-Cruise in Kota Kinabalu offers a captivating adventure.
With a 4.0 average rating from 93 reviews, this 8-hour tour provides the opportunity to spot proboscis monkeys and witness the enchanting glow of fireflies.
While sightings can vary, guides assist in attracting the fireflies to the boat. The tour includes a basic buffet dinner, hotel transfers, and a beach photographer to capture the memorable moments.
However, some travelers have critiqued the organization and communication, as well as the quality of the dining experience.
Read our full review: Sky-Mirror Photographing and Proboscis Monkey & Fireflies Watching River-Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Fun Boat Snorkeling and Island Visit From Kota Kinabalu
Visitors seeking a dynamic water-based adventure can embark on the Fun Boat Snorkeling and Island Visit from Kota Kinabalu. This 7-hour tour includes snorkeling at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park‘s islands, led by PADI-certified instructors.
Travelers will also enjoy a delicious lunch on a nearby island. The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, boat transfers, and necessary fees.
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it’s not recommended for those with certain medical conditions. With a maximum of 40 travelers, this excursion offers an opportunity to explore Sabah’s stunning marine life and islands.
Prices start from $87.95 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Fun Boat Snorkeling and Island Visit From Kota Kinabalu Review
Book now: Check availability
Proboscis Monkey and Fireflies River Cruise
Embarking on an evening cruise through the mangrove forests near Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, provides visitors with the opportunity to search for a variety of wildlife, including the captivating proboscis monkey, silver leaf monkeys, macaque long tail monkeys, monitor lizards, and native birds.
As the sun sets, the cruise will also offer stunning views of fireflies blinking at twilight.
The 2.5-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, local snacks, coffee, tea, and dinner.
With a maximum capacity of 20 travelers and an overall rating of 4.0 from 39 reviews, this cruise offers an immersive and affordable wildlife experience.
Pickup charges apply for hotels outside the Kota Kinabalu city area.
Read our full review: Proboscis Monkey and Fireflies River Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Klias Wildlife Safari River Cruise From Kota Kinabalu
The Klias Wildlife Safari River Cruise offers an immersive adventure into Malaysia’s Klias Wetlands near Kota Kinabalu.
Participants can observe diverse wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, macaques, crocodiles, and monitor lizards during the afternoon cruise.
After sunset, the tour continues with a unique after-dark cruise to witness fireflies illuminating the riverside.
The package includes round-trip transfers, a high tea, and a buffet dinner.
Activities at the jetty, such as fishing and blow-pipe practice, are also included.
The tour accommodates up to 45 travelers and has received positive reviews, indicating an enjoyable experience.
While the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, strollers are allowed, and children are welcome at a discounted rate.
Read our full review: Klias Wildlife Safari River Cruise From Kota Kinabalu Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day Bongawan River Cruise With Proboscis Monkey Sightseeing
Escape the city hustle for a serene day on the Bongawan River near Kota Kinabalu. This full-day cruise offers the chance to spot rare proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat.
Rated 4.5/5 from 15 reviews, with 100% of travelers recommending the experience, it’s an excellent value at $42.92 per person. Highlights include coffee/tea, a local Malaysian buffet dinner, and attentive guides.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates infants. With a maximum of 30 travelers, you’ll enjoy an intimate, scenic cruise featuring stunning sunset views.
Pickup is available from select Kota Kinabalu hotels, though outskirt locations incur an extra fee. This river cruise provides a unique opportunity to witness Borneo’s captivating wildlife and natural beauty.
Read our full review: Full Day Bongawan River Cruise With Proboscis Monkey Sightseeing Review
Book now: Check availability
Klias Wildlife Safari River Cruise – Proboscis Monkey & Fireflies
Aboard the Klias Wildlife Safari River Cruise, travelers will have the chance to observe the captivating proboscis monkeys in their natural riverside habitat.
The cruise provides an afternoon tea and a buffet dinner, along with hotel pickup and drop-off for selected hotels. With a maximum of 40 participants, the tour offers an intimate wildlife experience guided by English-speaking experts.
Travelers can also witness the enchanting firefly show after dark. Priced from $84.13 per person, the cruise isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart conditions.
Read our full review: Klias Wildlife Safari River Cruise – Proboscis Monkey & Fireflies Review
Book now: Check availability
Kota Kinabalu K2 Fireflies Sunset River Cruise Tour With Dinner
What better way to experience the serene natural beauty of Kota Kinabalu than on the K2 Fireflies Sunset River Cruise Tour with Dinner?
This 5-hour excursion takes you on a river cruise to witness the mesmerizing fireflies, followed by a buffet dinner at a local restaurant. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, life jackets, and an English-speaking guide.
While the river cruise is enjoyable, some past travelers noted issues with the dinner quality. Plus, the tour has a minimum of 2 participants required, and pickup is available from hotels in Kota Kinabalu.
Considering the mixed reviews, this tour may be worth exploring further to ensure it meets your expectations.
Read our full review: Kota Kinabalu K2 Fireflies Sunset River Cruise Tour With Dinner Review
Book now: Check availability
Discover Sailing Experience in Tanjung Aru Beach
Located along the picturesque Tanjung Aru Beach in Kota Kinabalu, the Discover Sailing Experience invites visitors to embark on a serene journey across the tranquil waters.
The tour includes the use of a sailboat, life jackets, and bottled water, and participants are required to meet at the Waterfly Borneo STAR Marina 10 minutes before the 1:00 PM start time.
While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, it’s suitable for those with a moderate fitness level.
Priced starting at $81.20 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to secure your spot with a reservation.
Read our full review: Discover Sailing Experience in Tanjung Aru Beach Review
Book now: Check availability
Morning Charter Cruise Experience in Kota Kinabalu
Visitors to Kota Kinabalu can embark on a Morning Charter Cruise that showcases the city’s picturesque coastline and nearby islands.
The 4-hour excursion starts at 8:45 am and can accommodate up to 20 travelers. Priced from $104.40 per person, the cruise includes lunch, snorkeling equipment, and coffee/tea.
The meeting point is at the Sutera Harbour Resort, where guests board the yacht. The cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Infants must sit on laps.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and guests can reserve now and pay later. The experience ends back at the starting point.
Read our full review: Morning Charter Cruise Experience in Kota Kinabalu Review
Book now: Check availability
Kota Kinabalu Sunset Cruise With Dinner, Live Band & Hotel Pickup
For those seeking a memorable evening in Kota Kinabalu, the Sunset Cruise with Dinner, Live Band & Hotel Pickup offers a captivating experience.
The 2-hour cruise accommodates up to 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere. Guests can relax and socialize while enjoying a buffet dinner and live music.
The experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off within a 1km radius of Kota Kinabalu City Centre, with additional charges for pickups outside this area.
Priced at €152.09 per person, the cruise is subject to a 30% surcharge during super peak or festive seasons.
Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Kota Kinabalu Sunset Cruise With Dinner, Live Band & Hotel Pickup Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on boat tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may have restrictions or offer on-board catering services.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Boat Tours?
Most boat tour companies don’t have age restrictions, but they may require children to be accompanied by an adult. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator to understand their policies before booking.
Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Boat Tours?
Visitors generally can take photos and videos during boat tours. However, it’s important to be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines set by the tour operator. Photography and filming may be limited in certain areas or activities for safety or privacy reasons.
Do the Boat Tours Have Wheelchair Accessibility?
Most boat tours and cruises offer wheelchair accessibility, allowing passengers with mobility challenges to enjoy the scenic views and activities. However, it’s best to inquire about specific accessibility features when booking your tour.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for the Boat Tours?
Many boat tour operators offer discounts and package deals, such as bundling tours or providing reduced rates for seniors, children, or groups. Customers should check with individual companies to inquire about any available promotions or special offers.
The Sum Up
Kota Kinabalu offers a variety of captivating boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural wonders. From wildlife-spotting excursions to sunset cruises with dinner, there’s something to suit every interest and budget. Travelers can enjoy unique experiences like photographing the sky mirror, watching fireflies, and discovering the city’s sailing scene, making Kota Kinabalu an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and scenic beauty.