Taylor-made snorkeling trips to explore one of the world's top underwater bio-diversity hotspot.
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- Budget Prices
- Accommodation in Mabul island or Semporna
- Dorm or private room
- Shared or ensuite bathroom
- Full board
- Fun snorkeling trips
- Sipadan
- Mabul
- Kapalai
- Tun Sakaran Marine Park
- Semporna Islands Park
With suitable accommodations for every wallet, even the budget snorkeler is welcome in Mabul island. Inexpensive accommodation options such as longhouses, homestays and hostels can be widely found there.
However Sipadan island is not easy to access for snorkelers on the lowest budget as most permits are given in priority to divers.
The solution is to choose a bit more expensive Mabul lodge or Mataking accommodation which also offers guaranteed sipadan permits for snorkelers, resorters and non-divers.
Our Budget Non-Diving Packages are designed for snorklers and holidaygoers alike who are looking for crystal-clear seas, colorful coral gardens along with many sea turtle encounters without having to learn how to scuba dive (Also discover scuba diving options are available with no pre-requisite in terms of snorkeling or even swimming knowledge). Based in Mabul, Kapalai or from the islands of Tun Sakaran Marine Park, these all inclusive holiday plans will focus on guided snorkeling, island hopping and relaxed beach time. Expect everything to be organized for you from airport pick up and luggage handling to land and boat transfers with a friendly and smiling staff and guides.
Typical inclusions cover accommodation (air-conditioning is often necessary in this region of the world), daily breakfast, lunch and dinner with plenty of snacks, return transfers from Semporna jetty to the island by boat on scheduled timings, licensed snorkeling guides, use of a dive mask, snorkel, fins and life jacket. Park or jetty fees may be collected locally and vary by island resort. Packages can be tailored to 2D/1N, 3D/2N, 4D/3N, 5D/4N, 6D/5N, 7D/6N or longer stays.
Snorkeling days typically prioritize the shallow reefs around Mabul island and the Kapalai sandy slopes, where conditions are calm and the chance of seeing sea turtles, colorful reef fish and healthy soft and hard corals is high. Underwater visibility and currents vary depending on the season and change with the weather, so snorkeling sites are selected on the same day to provide the best experience. To support marine conservation, guides brief on buoyancy while snorkeling, fin awareness near corals and the use of reef-safe sunscreen. Touching corals or feeding fish is forbidden to protect the marine ecosystem.
Logistics are straightforward: most guests fly into Tawau, transfer by road to Semporna (about 90 minutes) and continue by scheduled resort speedboat from the jetty.
For travelers accompanying divers or families with mixed holiday interests, these non-diving itineraries keep everyone together while maximizing time in the turqoise waters of the Celebes Sea. Add a rest day for photo walks on Mabul island and a visit to the Bajau Laut villages is a great idea. When you are ready to explore further, your options are either to join a island hopping trip in the Tun Sakaran Marine Park or to visit Semporna.
Please contact us for more information.