Leisure Diving at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park from Kota Kinabalu

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Leisure Diving at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park from Kota Kinabalu | other | wildlife | bus-tour

Read the full experience

You step off the boat and the island wind trims the heat; water laps the hull like an invitation. From Kota Kinabalu’s jetty the archipelago of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park unfolds — a close cluster of granite islands ringed by coral-studded shallows. The first descent drops you into blue-green visibility, reef life darting around bommies while a PADI dive master monitors your group.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

8 hours.

Fitness level

Moderate — comfortable swimming ability and the stamina for two open-water dives plus boat transfers are required.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a scuba certification to join?

Yes — this leisure dive product is for certified divers; you must present your certification and typically a recent logged dive history for deeper or repetitive dives.

How deep are the dives and how long do they last?

Dives are generally around 40–60 feet (12–18 meters) with bottom times near 40 minutes depending on air consumption and dive plan.

Is equipment provided?

Yes — basic scuba gear (BCD, regulator, tank, weights) is supplied, but many divers prefer to bring a personal mask and computer.

What happens if the tour is canceled?

The operator requires a minimum number of travelers; you can receive a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure or if the minimum isn’t met.

Local insights

Wildlife

Green sea turtle
Schools of fusiliers and clownfish among coral bommies

History

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park was established in the 1970s to protect a chain of islands and their reefs off Kota Kinabalu, reflecting early conservation efforts in Malaysian Borneo.

Conservation

Anchoring and diver contact are regulated to protect coral; use mooring buoys when available, practice neutral buoyancy, and avoid touching marine life to minimize impact.

About Asni Tours & Travel (M) Sdn Bhd

Asni Tours & Travel (M) Sdn Bhd operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationKota Kinabalu, Sabah

Tours offered4+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Bring your certification and logbookOperators require proof of scuba certification; bring your logbook to record dives and confirm experience.

Use a dive computerDepths approach 50–60 feet and repetitive dives make a dive computer important for safe ascent management.

Choose reef-safe sunscreenApply sunscreen before boarding and use reef-safe formulas to reduce chemical impact on coral.

Plan for sea conditionsMornings typically offer calmer water and better visibility; expect a small-to-moderate swells on afternoons.

Recommended gear

Dive computer: Tracks depth and no-decompression limits across both dives.
Shorty or 3mm wetsuit: Keeps you comfortable during 40–50 minute dives in tropical but variable water temperatures.
Mask and snorkel: A well-fitting mask improves visibility and a snorkel saves air on surface swims.
Reef-safe sunscreen: Protects skin and reduces chemical stress on coral ecosystems during surface intervals.