Semporna Island Hopping Snorkeling (Mabul / Kapalai Island Hopping) | Semporna, Sabah
- Discover two of Semporna’s most famous diving and snorkeling destinations — Mabul Island and Kapalai Island.
- Snorkel in crystal-clear waters surrounded by colorful coral gardens and abundant marine life.
- Visit the unique stilt resort at Kapalai, often called the “Maldives of Malaysia,” and enjoy breathtaking sea views.
- Stroll along Mabul’s charming fishing village, home to the local Bajau Laut (Sea Gypsy) community.
- Relax on beautiful white sandy beaches and capture postcard-perfect photos of paradise.
- Enjoy a delicious local lunch by the sea, with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and unwind.
- Accompanied by a friendly and experienced guide to ensure a safe and memorable trip.
Package Options
Product Info
What You Can Expect
Important Info
Reminders
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Acrophobia, Asthma, Epilepsy
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
If you are prone to motion sickness, we strongly recommend you take travel sickness tablets 1 hour(s) before the activity time
Although not mandatory, it is recommended that you purchase accident and/or travel insurance before participating in this activity
Sit-In-Coach basis (SIC). This tour is not a private tour, you will share the trip with other guests from different countries
Pregnant women are also not recommended as the boat ride may be bumpy depending on the sea condition. If you have similar issues as above, kindly consult your physician before enrolling in this activity
Please be advised that if you choose not to snorkel or diving during the activities session and wait on the boat, you will feel that the waiting time is very long and will cause dizziness due to the boat sway caused by the sea waves
Please do not bring valuables as there are no lockers on the islands
If the operator deems your diving/snorkeling skills or attitude may bring harm to the marine life or other guests, the crew has the right to stop you from participating in this activity
All snorkel and mask equipment provided is adult-sized. Children’s sizes are not available. Please take note.
Snorkel and mask equipment will be provided at no additional charge. A penalty of RM150 per set will apply for any lost items. Kindly take good care of the equipment and ensure it is returned after use.
How to Redeem Your Voucher
How to Use Your Voucher
- Please present the e-voucher on-site
Meeting Point
Location Name: Infinity Scuba Dive Center
Address: Infinity Scuba DiveFAQ
Mabul Island is typically accessed by boat from Semporna jetty, which serves as the main gateway to the surrounding islands. The journey usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on sea conditions and the type of boat. Most island-hopping tours, including those visiting Mabul and Kapalai, include round-trip boat transfers as part of the package for convenience.
Beyond its renowned snorkeling spots, Mabul Island provides a unique opportunity for on-land exploration. Visitors can stroll through the charming fishing village, observing the daily life of the local Bajau Laut community. The island also features white sandy beaches perfect for relaxation and capturing picturesque views of the Celebes Sea, offering a glimpse into a tranquil island lifestyle.
Kapalai Island is uniquely characterized by its stunning stilt resort, often referred to as the 'Maldives of Malaysia.' Unlike a traditional island with solid land, Kapalai consists of sandbanks and shallow reefs with bungalows built directly over the water. This provides breathtaking 360-degree sea views and exceptional snorkeling opportunities right from your doorstep, surrounded by diverse marine life.
The waters around Mabul and Kapalai Islands are teeming with diverse marine life, making them prime snorkeling destinations. Snorkelers can expect to encounter vibrant coral gardens, schools of colorful reef fish, sea turtles gracefully swimming by, and various macro creatures. It's a rich underwater ecosystem, perfect for observing tropical marine biodiversity.
The Bajau Laut community on Mabul Island, often called 'Sea Gypsies,' are renowned for their traditional seafaring lifestyle. They live in stilt houses built over the water or in villages along the shore, maintaining a deep connection with the ocean. Visiting their village offers a chance to respectfully observe their unique culture, crafts, and daily routines, which are centered around fishing and the sea.
When visiting the local community on Mabul Island, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially women, and to ask for permission before taking photographs of people. Engage with the locals politely and respect their privacy and traditions. Being mindful of their customs helps ensure a positive and culturally sensitive interaction during your visit.
During an island-hopping trip, the typical duration for visiting Mabul Island usually allows for several hours of exploration. This includes time for snorkeling in its surrounding waters, enjoying a local lunch by the sea, and a leisurely stroll through the village to experience the local culture. The exact time spent can vary based on the tour itinerary, but it's generally designed for a comprehensive experience.
The optimal season for experiencing the best snorkeling conditions at Mabul and Kapalai Islands is generally during the dry season, which typically runs from March to October. During these months, the weather is usually sunny, the seas are calmer, and underwater visibility is excellent. This provides ideal conditions for observing the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.
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