Spend two focused days progressing beyond Open Water in Kota Kinabalu. Small groups, six supervised dives and guided specialty choices let you practice deeper diving and navigation across the protected islands off Sabah.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The sun lifts off the South China Sea as you stand at Jesselton Point, fins in hand, the jetty humming with morning calls and the boat’s engine ticking like a distant heart. The islands to the west—granite shoulders ringed by coral—promise deeper walls, swim-throughs and patch reefs where currents test your trim and schools of fish carve patterns in the blue.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days (approx. 8 hours/day)
Fitness Level
Comfortable swimming ability and basic cardiovascular fitness; able to carry light gear and perform surface swims during boat transfers.
Wildlife
History
Kota Kinabalu evolved from the old port of Jesselton under British North Borneo administration; the nearby islands were later designated Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park to protect reef ecosystems.
Conservation
Operators work within marine-park regulations; divers should practice neutral buoyancy, avoid contact with coral and use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the PADI Advanced Open Water Course Kota Kinabalu today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring your Diver Card
Your certification card is required at registration to verify eligibility for the Advanced course—no card, no start.
Start with a light breakfast
You’ll be on the boat by 9:10 AM; eat easily digestible food and avoid heavy meals to reduce seasickness risk.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen
Use biodegradable sunscreen and cover up with a rashguard to protect coral and reduce reapplying during surface intervals.
Medicate early for seasickness
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take preventive tablets the night before and again before boarding—boats can roll during transit.
Diver certification card & logbook
Required to verify eligibility and record your course dives.
Personal dive computer
Helps you track depth and no‑decompression limits during training dives.
Reef‑safe sunscreen & sun protection
Protects your skin during surface intervals while minimizing reef impact.
summer
Lightweight dry bag & towel
Keeps spare clothing and electronics dry between dives and on the boat.