Join us for a RAID Try Dive in Kota Kinabalu

A Fresh Perspective on Kota Kinabalu’s Underwater World: RAID Try Dive Review

Looking for an engaging introduction to scuba diving in Malaysia’s stunning waters? This RAID Try Dive experience in Kota Kinabalu offers a fantastic opportunity for beginners and those curious about the underwater realm. It’s a full day’s adventure that balances safety, expert guidance, and genuine fun.

What we love most about this tour is the intimate group size—max 12 people—ensuring personalized attention from professional instructors. Plus, the inclusion of all equipment and a delicious lunch makes it a convenient, well-rounded experience.

One thing to consider is that this tour is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness levels, as the day involves boat rides, shallow water skills, and a proper dive. It’s ideal for those eager to get a taste of scuba, learn new skills, and explore marine life without the need for prior certification.

This tour is perfect for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting a safe, structured introduction to diving while enjoying the beautiful Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park scenery. Let’s explore what makes this experience stand out.

Key Points

• Personalized attention: Small group sizes with a 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio.
• All-inclusive: Equipment, lunch, park fees, and transport are covered.
• Flexible and convenient: Starts at Jesselton Point, ending around 4 pm.
• Expert guidance: Professional, insured staff with a focus on safety.
• Authentic marine encounters: Reef and boat dives with the chance to see sea turtles.
• Ease of access: Located close to public transport and easy to meet.

An In-Depth Look at the RAID Try Dive Experience

Location and Meeting Point

The adventure begins at Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, a bustling hub easily accessible by public transportation. The meeting time is 9:00 am, aligning well with most travel plans, and it’s a quick walk from Kota Kinabalu’s city center. The proximity to the city means you can comfortably combine this activity with other sightseeing or relax afterward.

The Real Value of Small Group Sizes

One of the standout features of this tour is the maximum of 12 participants, with a 4:1 instructor ratio. As one reviewer, TamsKszegi, pointed out, “The crew was very patient and never showed signs of dissatisfaction, even when I struggled with some skills.” This small-group approach guarantees individual attention, which is crucial for beginners feeling uncertain or nervous about the water.

Pre-Dive Instruction and Shallow Water Skills

The day kicks off with a verbal briefing from your professional RAID instructor. This part of the experience is vital because it sets the tone for safety and confidence. You’ll learn the basics of handling equipment, breathing underwater, and communicating with hand signals—all in shallow water. This stage is designed to make you comfortable before venturing further.

Reef Dive and Marine Life Encounters

Immediately following the skills session, you’ll head out for a reef dive in the protected waters of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. As the reviews suggest, the reef is vibrant and teeming with life, with opportunities to see large sea turtles and various colorful fish. The reef provides an ideal environment for beginners due to its shallow depths, making it easy to stay relaxed and enjoy the scenery.

Lunch Break and Rest

A well-deserved break follows the reef dive, with a provided lunch that’s included in the tour price. The meal is simple but satisfying, giving you energy for the afternoon activities. Staying hydrated is also easy, as bottled water is included, and the boat crew is attentive to your needs.

The Proper Boat Dive

Post-lunch, the adventure continues with a proper boat dive, all under the watchful eye of your instructor. This is the highlight for many, as it offers a more immersive experience in deeper waters. You’ll get a chance to explore further, with the safety protocols firmly in place, ensuring confidence even for less experienced swimmers.

End of the Day and Return

The tour wraps up around 4:00 pm back at Jesselton Point, giving you plenty of time to relax or explore more of Kota Kinabalu’s vibrant waterfront. The well-paced schedule allows for an enjoyable, stress-free introduction to scuba diving.

Practical Aspects and What Sets This Tour Apart

Price and Value

At $110 per person, this experience offers excellent value. It covers full diving gear, expert instruction, park and permit fees, lunch, transportation from the meeting point, and insurance—covering most essentials needed for a safe, memorable day. For first-timers, this all-included package removes the hassle of organizing gear or additional costs.

Equipment and Safety

All diving equipment is provided, which means no need to rent or carry your own gear. Reviewers, like Liang_D, appreciated feeling safe, noting, “My first time trying diving, and I felt safe thanks to Alex’s help.” The low instructor-to-student ratio ensures personalized guidance, and the insured staff adds peace of mind.

Duration and Flexibility

The day’s schedule, roughly 6 hours, suits those wanting a full but not overly long experience. Starting at 9:00 am and finishing around 4:00 pm makes it manageable for a day trip, whether you’re on a tight schedule or just want a taste of diving without commitments.

Environmental and Administrative Aspects

Park and permit fees are included, which demonstrates a responsible approach to marine conservation and ensures you won’t face surprise charges. The tour also emphasizes safety, with clear cancellation policies and weather considerations—if conditions aren’t suitable, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

What Reviewers Say

Liang_D shared, “It was a nice experience with Alex, my first time try diving and I felt safe.” This highlights the importance of professional guidance, especially for first-timers.

TamsKszegi described the atmosphere as “very funny and chill,” and was thrilled to see five large sea turtles during her reef dive, illustrating how memorable marine encounters can be. These insights suggest the tour is not just about learning but also about having a relaxed, enjoyable time.

Additional Considerations

While this experience is tailored for beginners, potential attendees should have moderate physical fitness, as boat rides and water activities require some energy. The inclusive approach and small group size make it accessible, but travelers should prepare themselves for being in the water and on a boat.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This RAID Try Dive is best suited for new divers or those curious about underwater exploration. It’s ideal if you want a safe, structured introduction with a good chance of seeing marine life like sea turtles. The tour is perfect for travelers who value personalized instruction, convenience, and an authentic experience without the need for prior certification.

It also works well for families or friends looking for a shared adventure in a relaxed environment. If you’re a solo traveler wanting a guided experience with safety at the forefront, this is a solid pick.

FAQs

Do I need any prior experience to join?
No, this is designed for beginners. Your instructor will guide you through all the skills needed for the dives.

What is included in the price?
Full diving equipment, lunch, drinking water, park and permit fees, professional staff, and transportation from Jesselton Point are all covered.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sun protection, and a sense of adventure! Towels and changing facilities are typically available at the meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical fitness requirement suggests it’s best for teens and adults comfortable in water activities.

How long does the tour last?
About 6 hours, from 9:00 am to around 4:00 pm, making it a manageable day trip.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity, giving you flexibility and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

The RAID Try Dive experience in Kota Kinabalu offers a balanced mix of adventure, safety, and authentic marine encounters. Its small-group setting and professional guidance make it an accessible choice for those new to diving, providing a solid foundation and memorable moments in Borneo’s beautiful waters.

If you’re eager to dip your toes into scuba, want a safe guided introduction, and are excited about the possibility of seeing turtles and vibrant coral reefs, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a practical, well-organized option for travelers craving a genuine underwater experience with a friendly, supportive crew.

Whether you’re visiting Kota Kinabalu for a few days or planning a dedicated diving trip, this experience is a fantastic way to connect with the sea and create lasting memories—without any prior experience needed.