Learn to Dive | RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course | Kota Kinabalu

If you’ve ever considered trying your hand at scuba diving, the RAID Open Water Diver Course in Kota Kinabalu offers a comprehensive and well-reviewed way to get certified. This 3-day adventure takes you into some of Borneo’s most captivating waters, with expert guides, modern equipment, and a supportive atmosphere. From the reviews, it’s clear that this experience is as much about the fun as it is about building confidence underwater.

What we love most about this course is the focus on small groups, which means personalized attention and less waiting around. Plus, the marine parks around Gaya Island showcase a stunning variety of marine life, making each dive memorable. However, potential participants should consider the physical requirements—moderate fitness is needed—and the fact that the course involves boat trips, so seasickness could be a factor.

This course is perfect for those who are healthy and eager to explore the underwater world in a safe, structured environment. Whether you’re entirely new or have some snorkeling experience, you’ll find the support you need here. If you’re someone who values knowledgeable instructors, a well-organized program, and breathtaking views, this might be your ideal way to start your diving journey.

Key Points

• Professional instruction from experienced guides like Basir and Amir ensures safety and confidence.
• Stunning marine life at Gaya Island makes each diving day visually rewarding.
• All equipment included means no fuss about gear, plus park and permit fees are covered.
• Small group sizes of up to 12 travelers give a more personalized experience.
• Pre-study flexibility allows for independent learning, saving time on the actual trip.
• Affordable pricing at $375 offers excellent value for a 3-day certification course.
• Highly praised guides are noted for patience, humor, and professionalism across reviews.
• Inclusive meals and water keep you energized during busy days on the water.
• Booking in advance (an average of 11 days ahead) secures your spot in this popular course.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Course

Day 1: Preparation and Basic Skills

Your adventure begins at Jesselton Point Jetty in the morning, where the friendly team loads you onto a boat headed towards one of the nearby marine parks. The first day involves essential safety and theory sessions, which you can choose to complete at their office or independently before the trip. This flexibility is a bonus for busy travelers or those eager to jump right in.

Once out on the water, the focus is on familiarizing yourself with the full diving equipment—everything from masks and fins to buoyancy control devices. Expect your instructor, perhaps someone like Basir or Amir, to be especially attentive, often praised for their patience and clarity. Reviewers mention that they felt well-supported by guides who are both professional and humorous, easing nerves and making the learning process enjoyable.

The shallow water training ensures you’re comfortable handling your gear and understanding key safety protocols before venturing deeper. The boat ride itself, often accompanied by lively conversation and stunning views of the islands, sets a relaxed tone for the days ahead.

Day 2: Underwater Exploration and Certification Skills

By the second day, you’ll likely be diving at Gaya Island or Sapi Island, both celebrated for their vibrant reefs and abundant marine life. The reviews highlight how the instructors ensure safety while encouraging exploration. Expect opportunities to see large schools of fish, sea turtles, and maybe even eels or rays.

Guides like Amir or Basir are commended for their thorough explanations and calm guidance. They’re known for making nervous beginners feel confident, often breaking down complex skills into simple, achievable steps. With small groups, everyone receives enough attention to master buoyancy control, mask clearing, and other foundational skills.

Lunch on the island offers a break to relax and replenish, with water and local food options. Reviewers note that the included meals are simple but sufficient, and the shared experience of eating on the beach creates a friendly, communal atmosphere.

Day 3: Final Dives and Certification

Your last day involves completing your final dives, putting all the skills into practice. Before certifying, the instructor will assess your competence—something many reviewers say is handled with professionalism and encouragement. Achieving your Open Water certification is a proud moment, often accompanied by a sense of accomplishment and excitement to continue exploring.

Post-dive, you’ll gather back at Jesselton Point, feeling tired but thrilled, with a new skill set and a camera roll full of underwater shots. Many mention that the entire process, from first gear handling to confidently swimming in open water, is well-organized and supportive.

The Value of the Experience

At $375 per person, this course offers genuine value considering the inclusions—full equipment, park fees, meals, and expert instruction. Small group sizes mean fewer distractions and more personalized coaching, which is crucial for beginners. The reviews consistently highlight the professionalism of instructors like Basir and Amir, both praised for their patience, clarity, and friendly demeanor, making the learning process less intimidating and more enjoyable.

The location itself, with access to protected marine parks, guarantees that your underwater encounters are vibrant and diverse. Watching reviewers describe “beautiful sights” and “amazing wildlife” confirms this is a prime spot for new divers. Plus, the flexibility of pre-study options and the central meeting point makes logistics straightforward, especially for those staying in Kota Kinabalu.

Practical Considerations

While the overall value is high, prospective participants should be aware of the physical demands—moderate fitness levels are recommended—and that boat trips mean dealing with the sea. If you’re prone to seasickness, bringing medication might be wise. The course is also suitable for ages 10 and above, though minors under 18 need adult accompaniment.

The Review Highlights

• Consistently high ratings (5.0/5 from 75 reviews) reflect strong satisfaction.
• Repeat guests and positive testimonials underscore the quality of guides and organization.
• Marine life experiences are frequently described as “beautiful” and “memorable.”
• Instructor praise is abundant, especially for Basir and Amir’s professional yet friendly approach.
• Lunch and water are consistently mentioned as satisfactory, keeping you energized for the day.

Who Should Book This Course?

This experience is ideal for beginners eager to start their diving journey in a welcoming, professional environment. If you’re physically able, enjoy being on the water, and want a hands-on introduction to scuba, this course delivers. It’s also suited for those who value small group sizes and personalized instruction, ensuring you’re not just another face in the crowd.

Travelers who want to combine learning with sightseeing and marine encounters will love the proximity to vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed way to gain your certification while enjoying Kota Kinabalu’s natural beauty.

The Sum Up

The RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course in Kota Kinabalu is a standout choice for anyone serious about learning to dive in a safe, friendly environment. The strong reviews, highly praised guides, and stunning underwater scenery make it clear this experience is both enjoyable and professionally managed.

You’ll appreciate the attention to detail—everything from equipment to meal inclusions—making the days smooth and stress-free. The small group format ensures personalized coaching, crucial for building confidence early in your diving adventures.

This course offers real value for the price, especially given the quality of instruction and the vibrant marine parks you’ll explore. It’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness who want to begin their diving journey in a supportive setting. If you’re ready to unlock a new world of discovery, this experience will likely exceed your expectations.

FAQ

Do I need prior experience to join this course?
No, the RAID Open Water Diver Course is open to all fit and healthy individuals from age 10 upwards, regardless of prior experience, as long as you can swim.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers full diving equipment, dive permits, park fees, three lunches, drinking water, and RAID learning materials.

How long is the course?
It spans approximately 3 days, with some pre-study that can be done independently or at their office.

Where does the course take place?
The dives are conducted in the local marine park near Gaya Island, with daily trips departing from Jesselton Point Jetty.

What’s the group size?
Maximum of 12 travelers, allowing for more personalized instruction and attention.

Can I do the theory part beforehand?
Yes, the pre-study is flexible—you can complete the 4-hour theory at their office or on your own time.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport details for registration, swimwear, towel, and any dietary preferences. All diving gear is provided.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, from age 10, but minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

To sum it up, if you’re dreaming of stepping into the underwater world with confidence, this course in Kota Kinabalu offers an excellent mix of professional guidance, stunning scenery, and genuine value. Perfect for beginners ready to make a splash, it’s a journey well worth considering.