Mataking - Timba-timba - Pom Pom Snorkeling

Highlight

  • Mataking Island
  • Three snorkel sites
  • Long white sandy beach

Included

Return boat transfer, Jetty fee, Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, life jacket), Snorkeling guide, Lunch

Description

It is said that the best way to experience the wonders of the sea is to get close to it. But what about people who can't swim or dive deeply yet want to see the amazing diversity of marine life and vibrant coral reefs? Well... Just come snorkelling!

This tour takes you to the sea three times a day! Each destination offers a different surprise!

There are two theories about the origin of the name Semporna: one suggests that Semporna has perfect sea and sandy beaches, with 'Sempurna' in Malay meaning 'perfect'; the other suggests it comes from the word 'Simporna', meaning 'the place of rest'.

Now, let me introduce you to the three destinations of this journey!

Famous island —— Mataking

Mataking Island is located in the Celebes Sea, about a 40-minute boat ride from Semporna. Mataking Mainland is connected to Small Mataking by a sandy bridge, known as the 'Moses Walk', which is almost 1-kilometre-long and takes about 25 minutes to walk one way. Usually, after 4pm, the tide rises, slowly submerging the sand bridge. 

Mataking Island has a strong focus on marine conservation, with the governing body and local community committed to protecting the area's rich marine life and coral reef ecosystems. They've taken various measures to protect the waters, including restricting fishing activities and conducting marine litter clean-up operations. In addition to the colourful corals, various species of butterflyfish, triggerfish, spinefoot, blue sea star, and other marine life have been spotted in this area. If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of them!

Come to peaceful islands - Timba-timba & Pom Pom!

The waters along the shores of these two islands are crystal clear, resembling jelly, while the coral reefs underwater are like fruits in the jelly, making one especially eager to "taste" and see which charming fish are hidden among the vast coral formations.

Timba-timba is a relatively undeveloped island, said to be inhabited by fewer people than you can count on one hand, where you can seek peace and quiet in a unique marine environment. It is blessed with a long white sandy beach flanked by crystal blue sea, which is a great place for photos. When snorkelling, in addition to the coral reefs, you'll have the opportunity to see a variety of tropical fish such as anemonefish and emperor angelfish, and sea turtles such as green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles.

At Pom Pom Island, you'll also have the chance to encounter a variety of marine species, including sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, and a variety of tropical fish. The shallow coral gardens surrounding the island offer excellent underwater visibility and are perfect for all levels of snorkelers, enjoyed by beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

Nature is like a mysterious maiden, and different people who meet the sea at different moments will enjoy unique sights and experiences. Come and test your luck and see what interesting underwater creatures you can encounter that day!

Don't miss the chance to enjoy three snorkelling spots in one day!

Other Snorkeling Options?

Bohey Dulang - Mantabuan - Sibuan
Highlight: Hiking & Snorkeling

Mabul Island  - Kapalai Island 
Highlight: Water Bungalows


Important Notice:
- For last minute bookings (less than 24 hours), kindly inquire with us for availability before proceeding with the booking and payment. As slots are not guaranteed.
- Starting in November 2023, and as mandated by Sabah Parks, there will be a landing fee of MYR 10 per person for visiting Timba - Timba Island. Please bring cash for the landing fee, which can be paid directly to the person in charge at Timba-timba Island.

Itinerary

* The itinerary is for reference only, it subjects to any necessary changes in accordance to local requirements.

Pickup Time & Transport Fee

No hotel pickup service is provided, you may need to reach meeting point yourselves.

Meeting Point:  Grace Hotel Semporna 仙本那格瑞斯酒店

Google Map:  https://goo.gl/maps/dp6mNVpQKmwutyf39


How to Pay

Pay on travelling day

No advance payment is required, simply pay cash in Ringgit-Malaysia to tour guide. However, you still need pay in full for any cancellation made 1 day prior to tour date.

Pay Online

Accep Visa and MasterCard credit card, Malaysian bank transfer, Paypal, FPX, Alipay. 2.3% surcharge apply. Please be noted that 2.3% processing fee is non-refundable in case there is cancellation 3 days after the payment made.

Bank Transfer

for Malaysians:
Online banking through your Malaysia Bank Account

for International guests:
Use WISE - a Fast & convenient global transfers service, better exchange rate than conventional bank Telegraphic Transfer; No 2.3% processing fee; Generally we would receive your payment in same day.


Additional information

  • Min. Participant(s)1 Persons To Go (child does not counted)

  • Tour location / Depart fromTawau (Semporna) . To reach Tawau city, you have to take a domestic flight or bus express from Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan. There are direct flights from Kuala Lumpur International Airport too.

  • Recommend to book1 month(s) in advance

  • To book at least3 day(s) in advance

  • Cancellation & Refund Policy:  Not refunable for any cancellation made.

  • Tour Type: Sit-In-Coach basis (SIC). This tour is not private tour, you will share the trip with other guests come from different countries. Please notify us upon booking if you are looking for private tour, surcharge might be applied.

  • Insurance: Tourist transportation insurance included. Please contact your insurance agency for personal travel insurance.

  • Pickup Service:  Pickup service will be provided from the hotel/hostel/lodge that you are staying. Please wait at lobby while the tour guide will find you when he/she arrive. Dropoff service will be provided after travelling, please notify us upon booking if your dropoff location is differ from pickup location.

  • Specialities: You may decide the joining date, no compulsory tips (If you are happy and satisfied with the journey and the tour guide service, it's always a nice way to express your appreciation with tipping, OR words of thanks is good enough).


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