In our recent trip to Sabah (read about it here and here which cost us about $,1600, we decided to forgo the usual island hopping route and splash out some cash on a private island tour to avoid the crowd and have a more enjoyable time. Best decision ever.
We were picked up from the hotel at 9:00am, transferred over to Sungai Kinarut Jetty (20mins), took a speed boat to Pulau Dinawan (15 minutes). Return journey is the same and departed at 4:00pm. Easy and effortless!
About Dinawan Island
A privately owned located on the west coast of Sabah state. A mere 20 minutes boat ride from Kinarut Jetty, the island caters to tourists who choose to do day trips as well as those who choose to stay at the limited number of chalets.
What we like about Dinawan Island?
Just about everything! It’s such a gorgeous place and we could easily lose ourselves in a piece of paradise as that.
What we didn’t like about Dinawan Island?
The owner-operators are not strict about conserving the marine life. The group that went out snorkeling with us were scared of the water and had no regard for the corals. We saw them geared like professionals (no local seasoned diver or snorkelers wear gear like that!) and because they had sea booties on, it allowed them to stand on corals whenever they wanted to snap a picture or to regain their composure! Not cool. Boots shouldn’t be allowed, if you must stand then feel the discomfort and be sure to fine them as well. Spend some time doing some education before letting the tourists loose!
How do you get there?
Go with a tour agent. There is no DIY option! We went with Masenang Tours & Travel and had a great time. They even made up for a delay if getting us back to the hotel with a RM65 discount off the Mari Mari Tour we took from them the next year. Overall, it was easy and effortless. *We earn no commission from this referral!
What did this trip cost?
RM230 (SGD77) per adult and RM185 (SGD62) per child. Infant – free of charge. Includes all transport, lunch, tea, kayak equipment, boat ride and equipment for snorkeling
Was it worth it?
Every single cent!
You might want a view from the top, so here it is! This is the best we can come up with given we can’t see ourselves spending on a drone! However we are open to sponsors, haha!
Ok here’s one from the internet that’s better!
What do you think from the pictures? Would you go?
Author: Ms.K
Ms.K is everything that Mr.C is, without the natural interest in investing and company financials! The activity planner for the family, the driver of random ideas and soon to be ‘retiring’ in to full time motherhood – Ms.K has no idea what she’s in for but remains super excited!