
Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu
Traveler rating
4.4/5
Based on 11 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu worth booking?
Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu is a 6-hour experience in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, from $88 per person. It scores 52 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 11 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 52 / 100
- Rating
- 4.4/5 (11)
- Duration
- 6 hours
- From
- $88 per person
Skip the hefty private charter fees and join our fun-filled group excursion. Speed across the South China Sea on a thrilling boat ride to nearby Sapi and Manukan Islands. Dive into crystal-clear waters, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, or soak up the sun on pristine beaches. Relaxation is guaranteed! Enjoy a complimentary BBQ lunch on Sapi Island and utilize the free snorkel equipment to explore the underwater world. With convenient round-trip transfers from your Kota Kinabalu hotel, all you need to do is pack your swimsuit and sense of adventure. Let's create unforgettable island memories!
What you get
About this experience
Skip the hefty private charter fees and join our fun-filled group excursion. Speed across the South China Sea on a thrilling boat ride to nearby Sapi and Manukan Islands. Dive into crystal-clear waters, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, or soak up the sun on pristine beaches. Relaxation is guaranteed! Enjoy a complimentary BBQ lunch on Sapi Island and utilize the free snorkel equipment to explore the underwater world. With convenient round-trip transfers from your Kota Kinabalu hotel, all you need to do is pack your swimsuit and sense of adventure. Let's create unforgettable island memories!
What's included
Included
- Terminal Fee
- Island Entrance Fee
- Shared transfer
- Hotel Pick-Up / Drop-off ( City Hotel only)
- Snorkeling equipment ( Except Fin)
- Lunch
Not included
- Personal Expenses
- Outskirt Hotel Pick-up/drop-Off- Rasa Ria , Pan Borneo, 1Borneo ( Additional MYR150.00 one way)
- Personal Insurance
What you'll see and do
Jesselton Point
A friendly face greeted you at 8:00-9:00 AM, confirming your island adventure and transfer you to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal Or Star Marina Tanjung Aru ( Pick-up time will vary depending on your hotel's location. We will update 1 day before tour)
30 minutes here · Admission included
Sapi Island
After a refreshing 15-minute ride, paradise awaited - Sapi Island! Stepping onto the pristine beach, excitement filled you. The plan was simple: explore, eat, and snorkel. You wandered along the soft sand, admiring the beautiful fish in the crystal-clear water. Then, it was time to explore the colorful underwater world! Snorkeling gear on, you dived into a kaleidoscope of colors. Coral reefs teemed with life, showcasing an array of fascinating fish. After your aquatic adventure, a delicious BBQ lunch refueled you for the rest of the afternoon. You explored further, relaxed under the warm sun, and soaked in the breathtaking scenery.
180 minutes here · Admission included
Manukan Island
"Next stop: Manukan Island! Smaller than others, it packs a punch. Pristine beaches beckon for swimming, while the north offers a rugged coastline. Dive into the vibrant underwater world, or try an adrenaline-pumping activity like jet skiing. Hike through lush rainforests and be rewarded with panoramic island views - Manukan has something for everyone
120 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
- Languages
- ms, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Borneo Wanderer Travel
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 11 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
11 verified traveler reviews for Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
A must try in some way
While we went with a group and had a guide Damli for the day it is a self paced day. You are picked up, taken to a boat, and land at the first island Sapi. You can get snorkel and goggles if you need them. No fins. We saw many colourful fish. Unless you sign a waiver you must wear a life jacket. There are two main areas to swim. We had about 2 hours and then buffet lunch is served. It is busy, a bit of queuing but there was plenty of food. Free drinks are available. You are then taken to Manukan island. This was not as good, less clear, less coral, more crowded and lots more rubbish. Be prepared to be shocked by just how much rubbish there is. We did see a shark! You are then taken back.
via Viator
Fun Day Out
A great way to see the islands. Lunch provided was rally nice with a good selection of food to choose from. Guides were very friendly and helpful. Only disappointment was the poor fish life to see while snorkeling.
Response from the operator: Dear Sir /Mdm, Thank you so much for the good review. We really appreciate it. Look forward to meet you again in the future. :-)
via Tripadvisor
sand, sun, and zero regrets
Thank you, Borneo Wanderer Travel, for a seamless and memorable journey, from expertly curated itineraries to attentive local guides, every detail reflected your deep knowledge and genuine passion for showcasing Borneo’s beauty.
Response from the operator: Dear Sir, Thank you so much for your kind review. We really appreciate it. Look forward to meeting you again in the future
via Tripadvisor
Nice boat ride, but poor snorkelling
Island staff on Sapi and Manukan roped off the reef with fish& coral and only allowed snorkelling where the bottom was sandy and barren. Most people put on the (sign said essential) life jacket and saw nothig. I swam over to the coral and whistles and horns and eventually a lifeguard on a foam kayak insisted I move away back to the barren sand. I explained I was experienced snorkeller, that I would not tread or touch the coral or fish to no avail. Defeated the whole exercise.
Response from the operator: Dear Mr. Art Daniel, Thank you for your valuable feedback and for the 4-star review! We’re glad you enjoyed much of your visit. Regarding your snorkelling experience, please note that the lifeguards and regulations on the islands are managed by Sabah Parks and are beyond our control. Their policies aim to protect sensitive coral reefs and ensure safety for all visitors, regardless of snorkelling experience. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you again.
via Tripadvisor
Disappointing experience
The operators knew about the bad weather and the storm and they still sent us anyway. So I paid to go to the first Island on a 15 minute boat ride with a reckless driver just to sit for a while, have a very bad meal and get back. And all we got is “sorry we can’t go to the next island cause of the weather” very disappointing experience, very unprofessional operator all they cared about is collecting the money and did not care about safety nor the actual trip.
Response from the operator: Dear Sir, First of all, thank you for your review. We would like to apologize for any inconvenience. . We strive to provide the best service to our guests and always prioritize their safety. Weather is beyond our control. Due to unforeseen rapid changes in weather conditions on that day, we were unable to proceed to the second island. Guest safety is our top priority. We appreciate your understanding and believe you are a kind and honorable man. Thank you and look forward to meet you again in the future.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Non-refundable
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $88 to $350
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 4
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Borneo Wanderer Travel, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 44.0.
See everything Borneo Wanderer Travel runsWhy this scores 52
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kota Kinabalu.
How much does Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu cost?
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Prices start at $88 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kota Kinabalu usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu take?
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Plan for about 6 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Kota Kinabalu is not rushed.
Is Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 52 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.4/5 across 11 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable culture & history in Kota Kinabalu, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu?
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No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.
Is Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu?
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Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Kota Kinabalu can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Kota Kinabalu and add a light layer if any part of the 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Kota Kinabalu within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu?
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On Outty we rank every Kota Kinabalu experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Guided Snorkeling Day Trip, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, Leisure Diving | Fun Dives | 3 Dives in TARP, Kota Kinabalu, Learn to Dive | RAID Open Water 18 Diver Course | Kota Kinabalu. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Kota Kinabalu?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu?
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Included: Terminal Fee; Island Entrance Fee; Shared transfer; Hotel Pick-Up / Drop-off ( City Hotel only); and Snorkeling equipment ( Except Fin). Not included: Personal Expenses; Outskirt Hotel Pick-up/drop-Off- Rasa Ria , Pan Borneo, 1Borneo ( Additional MYR150.00 one; and Personal Insurance. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 14 listed pickup locations in and around Kota Kinabalu. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu offered in?
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It is offered in Malay and English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Kota Kinabalu. Standard cancellation terms apply.
What do travelers say about Island Hopping ( Manukan & Sapi Island ) From Kota Kinabalu?
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Across 11 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
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