RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course 3-Days | Kota Kinabalu

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of exploring the underwater world, the RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course in Kota Kinabalu offers a compact, engaging way to earn your certification in just three days. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, this program is designed to combine education, adventure, and breathtaking scenery into one seamless package.

What we love about this experience are the expert instructors who make safety and fun their top priorities, the chance to swim among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, and the opportunity to enjoy freshly prepared lunches on idyllic island beaches. However, potential participants should consider the early start times and the need for prior online learning. This tour is ideal for travelers eager to gain a recognized diving qualification while soaking up the natural beauty of Sabah’s marine parks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Fast-track Certification: Complete your RAID Open Water 20 Diver qualification in just three days.
• Expert Guidance: Small groups (limited to 4 participants) ensure personalized attention and safety.
• Stunning Marine Environment: Dive into the Biodiversity hotspot of the Coral Triangle, filled with colorful corals and sea creatures.
• All-Inclusive Value: Lunches, equipment, boat transfers, and certification fees are covered.
• Flexible for Different Skill Levels: Suitable for new and returning divers, with tailored sites and support.
• Authentic Experience: Opportunity to swim with turtles, clownfish, and enjoy the coral-rich environment of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

An Unrivaled 3-Day Dive Course Experience in Kota Kinabalu

The RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course is more than just a certification—it’s an opportunity to see the spectacular underwater life of Sabah’s coast while gaining a globally recognized diving qualification. The program is run by Borneo Dream Travel & Tours, a reputable operator known for their safety standards and knowledgeable guides.

Why Choose This Course?

This course is specifically tailored for anyone who wants to learn the essentials of diving quickly and safely, in an environment that feels personalized rather than commercial. With a small group cap of four participants, you’ll receive plenty of one-on-one instruction, making it more engaging and less intimidating than larger classes. Your instructors, who speak both Malay and English, are dedicated to ensuring you feel confident in the water.

A Brief Review of What to Expect

The day begins at Jesselton Point Jetty, where your adventure kicks off around 8:45 am. From there, a short boat ride whisks you to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a cluster of five islands famed for their vibrant coral reefs and diverse sea life. Your boat, one of the best in Kota Kinabalu, is well-equipped with safety gear, offering peace of mind during your explorations.

Day 1 involves a thorough briefing, equipment checks, and your first open water session. This initial experience helps you get comfortable with the gear and the environment, setting a foundation for the days ahead.

Day 2 brings a second dive, usually after a relaxing lunch on one of the islands. The break is a perfect chance to enjoy the stunning scenery, and the lunch—described as casual and relaxed—adds a touch of island life to your learning experience.

Day 3 wraps up with a third dive, and then you’ll head back to Jesselton Point, with your certification in hand. The entire schedule is designed to maximize your time underwater while balancing safety and fun.

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The Marine Environment: What You’ll See

Sabah’s coast is part of the Coral Triangle, known globally for its marine biodiversity. During the course, you’ll encounter coral gardens, vibrant fish, and perhaps even green or hawksbill turtles. The water depths range from 16 to 98 feet (5 to 30 meters), giving ample opportunity to see different marine environments and creatures.

Dive Sites and Marine Life

• The reefs are colorful and lively, full of small fish like clownfish—famous for being Nemo—and a variety of corals that create a kaleidoscope of colors.
• The movement of large sea turtles, often seen swimming gracefully nearby, is a highlight for many.
• The reefs also support a variety of other marine creatures, making each dive a new adventure.

Authentic Insights & Experiences

One reviewer, Marie, shared that her instructor, Bas, was not only knowledgeable but also humorous, making the learning process enjoyable. She mentions that the guides, including boat captain Azmi, are serious about safety but bring humor to the experience, which helps ease any nerves.

The Value of This 3-Day Course

At $368 per person, this program offers appealing value considering it includes all the essentials: diving equipment, online learning materials, boat transfers, lunches, and certification fees. It’s an efficient way to gain a recognized certification while enjoying a scenic holiday.

Compared to longer courses or separate guided dives, this package packs a lot of value into a short time frame. Plus, the small group size ensures personalized attention, which is crucial when learning something as safety-sensitive as diving.

What You Actually Get

• Comprehensive instruction from experienced guides
• All necessary equipment provided
• Boats and transfers included, removing logistical stress
• Lunch and drinks on the islands to refuel between dives
• Final certification for Open Water 20 Diver, recognized worldwide

A Few Considerations

While the experience is largely positive, it’s worth noting that the course requires prior online learning, so some preparation is needed beforehand. You should also be comfortable swimming in water too deep to stand in and be in good health. The early start times may not suit everyone, but they do ensure you make the most of daylight hours.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re eager to add a diving certification to your travel list and want a safe, guided introduction, this course is ideal. It’s especially good for those who prefer small groups and personalized instruction. The natural beauty of Sabah’s reefs makes it perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

However, non-swimmers or those with respiratory issues or high blood pressure might find this experience unsuitable, as it involves swimming in open water. The requirement to arrive fit and prepared should also be kept in mind.

Final Thoughts

The RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course in Kota Kinabalu offers a thorough, well-organized way to gain diving certification in a beautiful environment. The combination of expert guides, vibrant marine life, and island lunches creates a memorable experience that balances education and adventure.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers eager to explore the underwater world without committing to a longer, more intensive course. The small group setting, high safety standards, and stunning surroundings make it a reliable choice for a first-time or returning diver.

Whether you’re looking to explore Borneo’s coral reefs or simply want a new skill to take home, this program provides a practical, enjoyable, and truly memorable way to dive into Sabah’s underwater paradise.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The price covers all diving equipment, online learning materials, boat transfers from Jesselton Point, lunches on the islands, safety gear, and the final certification fee.

Do I need prior experience or online learning?
Yes, the course involves online learning completed before the start date, and it’s suitable for both new and experienced divers.

What are the start and end times?
Meet at 8:45 am at Jesselton Point Jetty. The schedule generally runs from about 9:00 am to 4:00 pm each day, with specific timings for each activity.

Is transportation to Jesselton Point included?
No, the tour starts at Jesselton Point, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

Can non-swimmers participate?
No, this activity requires participants to be comfortable swimming in water too deep to stand in.

What should I bring?
Just swimwear and a towel. Arrive in your swimwear under your clothes, ready for the water.

Is this tour suitable for people with health issues?
Participants should be in good health, able to swim comfortably, and avoid it if they have respiratory issues or high blood pressure.

What is the group size?
Limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

This 3-day diving course in Kota Kinabalu offers an authentic, well-supported way to explore Sabah’s incredible marine environment while earning your diving certificate. It’s a fantastic choice for those eager to combine travel with a rewarding new skill.

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