Semporna: Bohey 3 Islands Hike, Snorkel/Dive Tour with Lunch

If you’re after a day filled with scenic hikes, crystal-clear waters, and island hopping in Malaysia’s Sabah region, the Semporna: Bohey 3 Islands Hike, Snorkel/Dive Tour with Lunch might be just what you need. We’ve sifted through the details, reviews, and itinerary to give you a clear picture of what this experience offers—and whether it’s worth your time and money.

Three things we love about this tour:
First, the stunning views from Bohey Dulang are truly breathtaking—imagine a 600-meter trek that rewards you with panoramic vistas of turquoise waters and neighboring islands. Second, the variety of activities keeps every moment interesting, whether it’s hiking, snorkeling, or relaxing with a local meal. Third, the knowledgeable guides and safety briefings make sure even beginners feel comfortable exploring underwater or on land.

A potential consideration is that weather conditions can impact the experience, especially the hike, which depends on good weather and park regulations. If hiking isn’t possible, the tour will focus on snorkeling and the boat excursions, which can still be fantastic. This tour is perfect for travelers who love outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic island experiences, but those expecting a strict schedule may need to be flexible.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenic views from the top of Bohey Dulang provide memorable photo opportunities.
• Variety of activities—hiking, snorkeling, diving—cater to different interests and skill levels.
• Comfortable boat transfers make island hopping smooth and efficient.
• Inclusion of meals and gear offers value, reducing extra expenses.
• Weather-dependent activities mean flexibility is essential.
• Guides speak multiple languages including English, Malay, and Chinese, making the experience accessible.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins at the Jetty Pelancong Semporna, where the crew greets you for registration and safety instructions. The journey to the islands is made by speedboat, which takes around 75 minutes each way. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views of the coast. It’s worth noting that the boat capacity and the number of travelers can vary, but reviews suggest the group size remains manageable, making the experience more personal.

The First Stop: Bohey Dulang Island

Once you arrive at Bohey Dulang, the real adventure begins. The highlight here is a 600-meter hike to the top of the island, which takes about 75 minutes. Though it’s a steep climb, the views from the summit are well worth the effort. You’ll see the young green peaks against the expansive Celebes Sea, with turquoise waters stretching out in every direction. Several reviewers, like Giorgia, describe the vista as “absolutely breathtaking,” and say the climb was tiring but “worth it” for the stunning views.

Guides like Din and others are on hand to provide safety briefings and assist during the hike. Despite some reviews mentioning the need for better organization (like waiting for others to get ready), most agree that the scenery compensates for any minor delays.

Next: Mantabuan Island

After descending from Bohey Dulang, you’ll head to Mantabuan, a tiny island with a fascinating history. Once home to sea gypsies, the island now features crumbled brick remains and is a window into local life. The highlight here is the snorkeling or guided diving that follows. Expect vibrant coral reefs and schools of fish, with safety instructions from the guides to ease first-timers.

One reviewer, Rachana, shared that their guides, including Din, were “very attentive and helpful,” especially with those new to diving. If you opt for diving, note that the shallow water (average 2.5 meters, max 6 meters) makes it accessible for beginners and those without certification.

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Lunch in a Remote Paradise

Following water activities, a local lunch is served onboard, typically in the shade of a canopy. The meal is usually included in the price, which provides good value considering the remote location. While some may find the lunch “okay,” most appreciate the chance to relax and enjoy a fresh, local meal in such an isolated setting. The food often features Malaysian flavors, adding an authentic touch.

The Hidden Gem: Sibuan Island

The final stop is Sibuan Island, a true hidden treasure seldom seen by locals. The boat captain will choose the best snorkeling spots depending on weather conditions, but expect a secluded bay with blue sand beaches and spectacular underwater formations. Here, snorkelers can marvel at a stone arch and colorful marine life, with some reviews describing the underwater scenery as “magnificent” and “home to thousands of colorful fish.”

This part of the trip is ideal for those seeking tranquility and vibrant marine ecosystems. The boat’s flexibility allows for about two swim stops of roughly 20 minutes each, making it a perfect way to cool off before heading back.

Returning and Final Thoughts

The trip concludes with the boat ride back to Semporna, usually around an hour, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Most reviewers agree that the value for money is high, especially considering the inclusion of gear, lunch, and multiple activities.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This experience offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. The hiking provides a physical challenge with spectacular rewards, while the snorkeling and marine exploration let you see vibrant coral reefs and fish—many described as “some of the best in Semporna.” The guides’ attentiveness and clear safety instructions make even beginners feel secure, which is crucial in a sea adventure.

Value for Money

At $90 per person, the tour packs in a full day of activities, from hiking and island visits to snorkeling and diving, along with a hearty local lunch. The inclusion of multiple snorkeling stops, scuba gear, park entry fees, and safety instructions means you won’t need to worry about extra costs. Considering the remote setting and the variety of experiences, most find this to be a good deal.

Who Should Join?

This tour suits adventure lovers who don’t mind a bit of physical activity, as well as those who want to see untouched islands and marine life. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore off-the-beaten-path locations. Keep in mind, weather conditions can influence the experience, especially the hike, so some flexibility is essential.

Practical Tips

• Bring change of clothes, especially if you plan to snorkel or dive.
• Pack cash for personal expenses or optional souvenirs.
• Wear hiking shoes for the trek, and consider bringing a waterproof bag.
• Prepare for sea sickness if you’re prone; the boat ride can be choppy.
• Wetsuits might be handy if you prefer extra warmth during water activities.
• Confirm your full name and nationality beforehand for smooth registration.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? No, this tour starts at the Jetty Pelancong Semporna. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation there.

How long does the tour last? The experience runs between 7 and 7.5 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions.

Can I do snorkeling instead of diving? Yes, snorkeling is included and can be part of the day’s activities without extra charge.

What if the hike is canceled? If weather or park restrictions prevent the hike, the tour will focus on snorkeling and boat rides instead.

Do I need a diving certificate? No, the snorkeling and DSD (Discover Scuba Diving) are suitable for beginners, with safety briefings provided.

What should I bring? Essentials include change of clothes, waterproof bag, hiking shoes, cash, passport, and motion sickness remedies.

Are the guides multilingual? Yes, guides speak English, Malay, and Chinese, making communication easy for most travelers.

Is there an age limit? The tour is suitable for most ages, but physical activity like hiking may be challenging for some.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of Sabah’s coastlines and islands without the need for extensive travel or equipment. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, scenic views, and marine life, all packed into one day. The guides’ professionalism, combined with the stunning scenery, ensures a memorable outing—even if the weather doesn’t cooperate perfectly.

If you’re looking for an authentic, value-packed experience that balances physical activity with relaxing ocean moments, this is a fantastic choice. Be prepared to go with the flow, and you’ll leave with plenty of unforgettable memories of Sabah’s island paradise.

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