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

Introduction

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring vibrant coral reefs and swimming alongside turtles and clownfish, the RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course in Kota Kinabalu offers a fantastic way to turn that dream into reality. This 3-day program is designed not just to certify you as a diver but to immerse you in the stunning underwater world of Sabah’s marine parks.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the focus on personalized attention with small groups—just four participants per instructor—ensures tailored guidance whether you’re new to diving or revisiting after some time. Second, the expert guides like Bas and Azmi are praised for their professionalism and humor, making learning both safe and enjoyable. Lastly, the chance to see Sabah’s incredible biodiversity of corals and marine life is a true highlight.

One consideration? It’s a physically demanding activity that requires you to be fit, healthy, and comfortable swimming in deep water. This tour suits travelers eager for an educational, engaging introduction to diving—perfect for those who want a meaningful, safe experience without long days or complicated logistics.

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Good To Know

• Personalized Learning: Small group size guarantees lots of individual attention and safety.
• All-Inclusive Value: Equipment, materials, lunch, and park fees are covered, making it straightforward and hassle-free.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable instructors like Bas and Azmi enhance the experience with humor and professionalism.
• Biodiverse Environment: Filming in Sabah’s part of the Coral Triangle means encountering a wide array of marine species and coral reefs.
• Ideal for Certification: You walk away with RAID Open Water 20 Diver certification, unlocking further underwater adventures.
• Flexible & Relaxed Schedule: The itinerary balances structured dives with plenty of time to relax on the boat or onshore.

What to Expect from the 3-Day RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course

This program combines online learning with practical, hands-on diving experiences—offering a comprehensive training within just three days. It’s perfect for those who want to get certified swiftly but without sacrificing quality or safety.

Day 1: Getting Started & First Dives

The adventure begins bright and early at Jesselton Point Jetty at 8:45 am. Here, you’ll meet your guides, who are praised for their professionalism and good humor—particularly Bas and Azmi, as one reviewer pointed out. These experts are known for being conscientious while keeping the atmosphere light and friendly. After a quick briefing, you’ll gear up and perform buddy checks, ensuring you’re confident and prepared before your first splash.

The first dive kicks off around 10 am, with participants exploring depths of around 16 feet (5 meters). Expect to see colorful coral formations and small tropical fish. The small group setting (just four people) means each diver gets plenty of personal guidance, which is especially helpful if you’re somewhat new to diving. After this, you’ll have a surface interval on the boat’s sun deck, soaking up the scenery and sharing impressions.

Day 2: More Diving & Island Lunch

The next focus is on enjoying the underwater beauty of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Around midday, you’ll take a break on an island for a relaxed lunch, a favorite feature noted by participants. Imagine eating fresh, local food while overlooking the turquoise waters—this break offers a wonderful pause amidst your adventures.

The second dive picks up around noon, followed by a further opportunity to explore different sites. The diversity of the reef systems and the chance to see turtles or clownfish make each dive unique. The guides’ commitment to safety and education shines through here, with real attention to each diver’s comfort and skill level.

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Day 3: Final Dives & Certification

The third and final day involves a couple more dives in the same marine park, bringing your total to three guided experiences. The boat departs by 3 pm, returning you to Jesselton Point by early afternoon. The entire process is smooth, well-organized, and supportive, ensuring you finish feeling accomplished and confident.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

Your fee of $368 per person covers almost everything needed for a successful certification—dive equipment, online learning materials, final certification, lunches, water, and park fees. The small group size (limited to four participants) ensures you get attentive coaching without feeling rushed.

However, note that hotel transfers are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from Jesselton Point. Also, travelers should be prepared to provide personal details like height, weight, and shoe size ahead of time, and be in good health and comfortable swimming in water too deep to stand.

The Experience and Why It’s Worth It

Diving in Sabah’s waters is a special experience due to its location in the Coral Triangle, known for the highest marine biodiversity in the world. Participants can expect to encounter an impressive array of marine life, from tiny, brightly colored fish to turtles and vibrant coral reefs.

Reviewers highlight the guides’ professionalism and good humor—Marie shared, “Bas and Azmi are serious, conscientious but always with humor and good humor. We recommend obtaining the PADI Open Water Diver certificate.” Their dedication is evident in the small group setting, which fosters a personalized, stress-free learning environment.

The boat itself is praised as one of the best in Kota Kinabalu, stocked with all necessary safety gear, ensuring peace of mind. The entire experience balances adventure with education, making it ideal for travelers looking to learn diving safely and efficiently.

The Value of the Price

At $368, this course provides high value considering the inclusions—equipment, online materials, park fees, and lunch are all covered. The small group format and expert guidance enhance the quality of your certification process. For those eager to explore Sabah’s underwater realm but are cautious about safety and instruction, this course offers a reliable, enjoyable pathway.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This program is perfect for certified divers eager to extend their skills or for beginners willing to do the online coursework before attending. Its small group nature means personalized attention, making it suitable for those who want a relaxed, educational experience.

While not suitable for non-swimmers or those with respiratory issues or high blood pressure, physically fit travelers who are comfortable swimming in deep water will find this experience rewarding. It also appeals to travelers who value good guidance and want to explore Sabah’s vibrant marine life without long, strenuous excursions.

Final Thoughts

The RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course in Kota Kinabalu offers a well-rounded, high-quality introduction to the underwater world, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to earn their diving certification in a beautiful setting. The small group size, knowledgeable guides like Bas and Azmi, and the chance to see Sabah’s incredible marine biodiversity combine to create a memorable, valuable experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers eager to learn diving in a safe, relaxed environment while enjoying the stunning scenery of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. It’s an excellent option for those who want a comprehensive, enjoyable, and professionally guided course that opens the door to more underwater adventures.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers all diving equipment, online learning materials, final certification, lunches, water, return boat transfers, park fees, and a small group setting with personalized attention.

Do I need prior experience to join?
No, you do not need previous diving experience, but you must be able to swim in water too deep to stand in and be fit and healthy. The online coursework is completed before the course starts.

Are meals provided?
Yes, lunches are included on both diving days, served on an island within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

What equipment is supplied?
All necessary diving equipment is included, ensuring you’re well-equipped for your underwater exploration.

How many dives are included?
You will complete three guided dives over the course of the program, exploring different sites within the marine park.

Is transportation included?
Return boat transfers from Jesselton Point Jetty are included, but hotel pickup and drop-off are not.

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

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and any personal essentials. Arrive each morning with your swimwear beneath your clothes.

Who are the guides?
Guides like Bas and Azmi are highly praised for their professionalism, safety focus, and sense of humor, making the experience enjoyable and educational.

To sum it up, the RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course in Kota Kinabalu is an excellent choice for those ready to take their first steps into the underwater world in one of the most biodiverse marine environments. With expert guidance, all-inclusive pricing, and a small-group atmosphere, it offers a safe, engaging, and memorable introduction to snorkeling and diving. Whether you’re looking to get certified or simply want an authentic glimpse into Sabah’s aquatic wonders, this course delivers both value and adventure.

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