Kota Kinabalu: Snorkle from Catamaran with Meal & Activities

Imagine a day where you’re sailing along turquoise waters, stopping at uncrowded snorkeling spots, and enjoying a delicious meal with scenic views—sounds fantastic, right? This Kota Kinabalu catamaran tour offers just that, combining adventure, relaxation, and a touch of luxury in a way that feels authentic yet indulgent.

While the trip is packed with highlights and is notably well-reviewed for its friendly guides and stunning scenery, it’s worth considering that weather can influence the experience, especially if strong winds or red flags are in place. Designed for those who love active days out on the water but also want the convenience and comfort of guided excursions, this tour suits travelers eager to explore Sabah’s beautiful islands without the hassle of crowded or complicated arrangements.

Here’s what we love most: the opportunity to snorkel at private spots straight from the boat, the inclusive paddleboarding and kayaking, and the scenic views of Kota Kinabalu’s skyline and lush islands. One minor point to keep in mind is the need to bring your own toiletries and change of clothes, which adds a touch of practicality but also requires a little planning.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation perfect for those wanting to see Sabah’s waters in a fun, straightforward way.

Good To Know

• Uncrowded Snorkeling: Dive into pristine coral reefs directly from the boat, avoiding crowds and dock stops.
• All-Inclusive Water Activities: Paddleboarding and kayaking are included, offering different ways to enjoy the calm waters.
• Scenic Sailing: Enjoy views of Kota Kinabalu, lush islands, and greenery from the comfort of a spacious catamaran.
• Delicious Meals: A well-prepared onboard meal provides a satisfying break amid the day’s activities.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a morning or afternoon session, depending on your preferred schedule.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides like Timmy enhance the trip with insights into the local environment and safety monitoring.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting with Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Kota Kinabalu, which is a big plus—no need to worry about arranging transport to the jetty. The transfer takes about 30 minutes to Sutera Harbour Marina, where you’ll board the captivating catamaran. The vessel itself is described as a good size, with plenty of comfortable spaces to lounge in, including a shaded air-conditioned section—perfect for relaxing between activities.

We noticed from reviews that the crew, notably guides like Timmy, are praised for their friendly and knowledgeable approach. They keep a close eye on water conditions to ensure snorkel spots stay optimal, which adds a layer of safety and care that’s appreciated on day trips like this.

Sailing with Scenic Views

Once on board, the journey begins with a cruise along the coast, offering breathtaking vistas of Kota Kinabalu’s skyline, nearby islands, and tropical greenery. The route includes stops near Sepanggar Island and Gaya Island—both known for their clear waters and healthy coral reefs.

The highlight here is the no-docking aspect, which means you can hop right into the water from the boat—no crowds, no fuss. The reviews confirm that the snorkel spots are uncrowded and private, a big advantage for those who dislike busy tourist areas. A reviewer from Australia, Miranda, highlighted that the crew “constantly monitored the water conditions to ensure we could snorkel in the best possible spot for the day.” This level of attentiveness makes a noticeable difference in the quality of the experience.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Once in the water, expect to see vibrant coral gardens, schools of colorful tropical fish, and perhaps even gentle sea turtles. The coral reefs are lively and healthy, making for excellent photo opportunities and a true sense of underwater wonder. Reviewers praised the clarity of the water, describing it as “sparkling” and “crystal clear,” which makes the snorkeling even more enjoyable.

For those who aren’t confident swimmers, the crew’s support and the availability of life jackets (noted by a reviewer who appreciated being provided one after a long absence from swimming) make the experience accessible for a wider range of participants.

Paddleboarding & Kayaking

After exploring the reefs, the tour seamlessly shifts to paddleboarding and kayaking, which are included in the package. These activities allow you to glide leisurely across calm waters while soaking in the scenery. Reviewers liked this part for its relaxed pace and the chance to take in the lush backdrop of Gaya Island or nearby islands.

It’s worth bringing your own towels, change of clothes, and toiletries to freshen up after the water activities, as the boat only provides an open shower at the back—an efficient but simple way to rinse off.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Relaxation

The onboard meal is a highlight for many. It’s described as a “delicious lunch” that helps recharge after the active parts of the trip. The reviews mention that the meal is good, with some noting it’s not five-star gourmet but satisfying and well-prepared, with plenty of options for different tastes.

The combination of eating on a boat surrounded by islands, feeling the sea breeze, makes lunch feel like a special moment rather than just a break. After lunch, there’s time to relax, swim, or sunbathe before heading back to the jetty.

Sunset & Night Cruise

The afternoon session switches gears with a scenic sail to Gaya Island, followed by more private snorkeling spots. As the sun begins to set, the sky paints itself in stunning shades of orange and pink, creating a magical backdrop for the dinner on board. The reviews mention that the sunset views are magnificent, and the ocean’s glow adds an extra layer of beauty to the experience.

The tour concludes with a leisurely night cruise along Kota Kinabalu’s waterfront, where the city lights reflect off the water, wrapping up a day of natural beauty and peaceful cruising. It’s a perfect way to wind down and take in the city’s vibrant night scene from a different perspective.

Practical Aspects

The entire experience lasts around 5.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on whether you choose the morning or afternoon session. The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions (like red flags) threaten safety, but light rain won’t stop the fun.

You’ll want to bring your own toiletries, towels, and clothes changes, as these aren’t provided, but the open shower on the boat helps you rinse off afterward. The group size appears manageable, with most reviews mentioning a friendly and attentive crew, led by guides like Timmy, who are known for their good English and knowledge of local sites.

Pricing & Value

Considering the inclusion of meals, multiple water activities, scenic sailing, and the personalized feel of the small-group experience, the price offers good value for those seeking a comprehensive day out. It’s not a rushed, crowded tour, but one that emphasizes comfort, safety, and authentic natural encounters.

This snorkeling and sailing experience is perfect for travelers who want to explore Sabah’s waters without the hassle of island-hopping packages. It suits those looking for a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, especially if you enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer guided tours with good local insights, friendly crews, and uncrowded spots. If you’re after a scenic, peaceful day on the water with opportunities for underwater photography and a satisfying meal, this tour ticks many boxes.

However, keep in mind that weather plays a key role, and flexibility is necessary if conditions turn unfavorable. Also, bring your own toiletries and clothes, and prepare for a day that’s active but comfortably paced.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, including pickup, sailing, water activities, and return.

What should I bring with me?
It’s best to bring towels, change of clothes, toiletries, and sunscreen. Towels and toiletries are not provided, but there is an open shower on the boat for rinsing.

Are meals included?
Yes, a well-prepared meal is included during the day, offering a good variety of food to recharge after activities.

Is the snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, with the crew monitoring water conditions and providing life jackets, snorkeling is accessible even for those not confident swimmers.

Can I choose between a morning or afternoon session?
Yes, you can opt for either a 9:00 AM morning session or a 3:00 PM afternoon one, depending on your schedule.

What happens in bad weather?
If red flags are issued, the trip may be rescheduled or canceled. In cases of lightning or severe weather, the boat will return to shore, and refunds are generally not issued for weather-related cancellations.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves water activities, it’s best suited for older children who are comfortable in the water. Always check with the provider regarding age restrictions and safety measures.

In short, this Kota Kinabalu catamaran tour offers a well-rounded, scenic water adventure that balances active exploration with comfort and delicious food. It suits travelers eager to enjoy Sabah’s natural beauty from a relaxed yet engaging perspective, with the added bonus of knowledgeable guides and uncrowded snorkeling spots. Perfect for those chasing memorable moments amid turquoise waters and lush green islands.

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