Kota Kinabalu: CALRO Catamaran Yacht & Island-Hopping

Planning a day out on the water in Kota Kinabalu? The CALRO Catamaran Yacht offers a balanced blend of island fun, water activities, and scenic sunset sailing. Whether you’re craving a relaxing day with island swims or some excitement with water slides and paddleboarding, this tour covers all bases.

Three things we love about this experience include the luxury of sailing in style, the variety of water activities, and the chance to capture breathtaking sunset views. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that it might not be suitable for those prone to seasickness or who require wheelchair accessibility.

This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging day on the water, especially if you enjoy both active and chill moments. It’s also well-suited for groups or families wanting a comprehensive island-hopping experience with the bonus of onboard meals and drinks.

Good To Know

• Comfortable sailing aboard a modern catamaran with plenty of space.
• Diverse water activities like snorkeling, sea slides, and paddleboarding.
• Scenic sunset cruise that highlights Kota Kinabalu’s natural beauty.
• All-in-one experience with meals, drinks, and water fun included.
• Departure point at Magellan Jetty, with a clear schedule.
• Limited suitability for wheelchair users or those with seasickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the CALRO Catamaran Island-Hopping Experience

Setting Sail from Magellan Jetty
The adventure begins in the early afternoon with guests meeting at Magellan Jetty—an easily accessible spot in Kota Kinabalu. Arriving around 30 minutes early helps ensure a smooth check-in process, especially since guests need to register, present a valid photo ID, and send over personal details. The boat, a spacious CALRO Catamaran Yacht, is modern and designed for maximum comfort, making the 5.5-hour journey feel relaxed rather than rushed.

What’s on the Itinerary
The tour departs at 14:00, immediately setting a leisurely tone for the day. The first stop, around 16:20, is at a beautiful island where you can snorkel, swim, or simply unwind on the shore. Reviewers highlight the clarity of the water and the abundance of marine life, making snorkeling a highlight. One guest mentioned, “The snorkeling was surprisingly good, with lots of colorful fish and coral just off the shore.”

Back on the yacht, you can enjoy an onboard meal—often described as hearty and satisfying—with options like local dishes, plus drinks such as mineral water, soft drinks, and beer. This all-in-one approach means you don’t need to worry about packing snacks or hunting for food during the day. Many appreciate the convenience and the quality of the included refreshments, saying it keeps them energized for more water fun.

Water Activities Galore
The tour’s standout feature is its variety of water-based entertainment. Water slides and a pool onboard are popular for families and kids, while paddleboards and fun fishing cater to a broader audience. There’s even a sea slide that guests say “adds a playful twist to the day,” and a sea pool for relaxing while taking in the scenery.

Other activities include flying fish, banana boat rides, and paddleboarding—offering an active side for those who want it. Reviewers often mention how these options give everyone a chance to try something new, whether it’s gliding on a paddleboard or just floating around in the pool.

Sunset Sailing and Scenic Views
As the day winds down, around 18:50, the boat sets up for the sunset cruise. Guests are encouraged to take in the stunning views of Kota Kinabalu’s skyline, with the sky transforming into a palette of oranges and pinks. One reviewer noted, “The sunset was absolutely breathtaking, a perfect end to a beautiful day on the water.” It’s a quiet, reflective time that offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to unwind after a busy day.

Return to the Jetty
The journey concludes around 19:00 back at Magellan Jetty, leaving you with lasting memories of a well-rounded day of island exploration, water fun, and scenic cruising.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfort and Convenience
The CALRO Catamaran is praised for its spaciousness and onboard facilities, making the experience comfortable for all ages. Many reviews mention the yacht’s stability, which reduces seasickness risk, though it may still be unsuitable for those highly prone to it.

Variety of Water Activities
The tour’s flexibility allows you to choose your preferred water activities—from snorkeling in clear waters teeming with marine life to trying out paddleboards or simply relaxing in the onboard pool. This variety ensures no two trips are alike, and everyone finds their favorite way to enjoy the sea.

Stunning Sunset Views
Few experiences compare to the sight of Kota Kinabalu’s sun setting behind the islands. Guests often find this to be the highlight of the trip, with many capturing memorable photos of the sky’s changing colors.

All-Inclusive Experience
The tour’s inclusive meals and drinks help streamline the day, removing the hassle of bringing your own food or worrying about extra costs. The quality of the provided fare, combined with the variety of beverages, is often appreciated.

Practicalities and Considerations

Duration and Schedule
At just over five hours, the tour offers a good balance of activity and relaxation. The schedule is well-structured, with designated times for each activity, allowing guests to plan their day accordingly. Arrivals are recommended 30 minutes early to handle check-in smoothly.

Price and Value
While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the tour’s all-in-one offering—water activities, meals, drinks, and scenic cruising—makes it a reasonable choice considering the inclusions. The value is especially apparent when you factor in the variety of activities and the convenience of a guided experience.

Group Size and Atmosphere
The tour typically hosts a modest group size, fostering a friendly and intimate atmosphere. Group interactions often enhance the experience, making it easier to share fun moments and capture photos.

Accessibility and Suitability
The experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those prone to seasickness, so it’s best for travelers in good health and with no mobility constraints. If you’re sensitive to motion, consider taking precautions before joining.

Final Thoughts

Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re after a lively day on the water with plenty of options for water activities, a scenic sunset, and onboard meals, this tour delivers. It suits families, couples, and groups looking for a balanced mix of fun and relaxation.

The Experience of a Lifetime
The calm waters, the chance to snorkel alongside colorful marine life, and the spectacular sunset views make this a memorable outing for anyone wanting to see more of Kota Kinabalu’s coastal beauty. The onboard facilities and variety of activities ensure there’s something for all to enjoy.

Worth Considering
While it offers fantastic value, it’s important to note the restrictions for those with mobility issues or seasickness. Also, if you prefer a more secluded or less structured experience, you might find this tour a bit busy or scheduled.

To sum it up, the CALRO Catamaran Yacht tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable adventure that combines water fun, scenic vistas, and convenient amenities. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want to make the most of their time on the water and create lasting memories in Kota Kinabalu.

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FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Guests should meet at Magellan Jetty at 13:30, with departure at 14:00.

What do I need to bring?
Bring your passport, swimwear, a change of clothes, and sunscreen.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy water activities and are comfortable on boats will find it fun, but always check if they can handle the water-based components.

Can I join if I’m prone to seasickness?
The tour may not be ideal for those sensitive to seasickness, as it involves sailing, though the yacht’s stability helps.

What’s included in the price?
Water activities, onboard meals, drinks such as mineral water, soft drinks, and beer are included.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, from 13:30 to around 19:00.

Is transportation provided from hotels?
No, the meeting point is at Magellan Jetty; transportation arrangements need to be made separately.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is hosted in English.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, all major costs are included in the tour price. Extra purchases are optional.

In summary, the CALRO Catamaran Yacht & Island-Hopping tour in Kota Kinabalu offers a fantastic combination of water fun, scenic views, and onboard amenities. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a full day of adventure with all the essentials covered, making for a memorable and enjoyable experience in Malaysia’s Sabah region.