RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course 3-Days | Kota Kinabalu

This 3-day RAID Open Water 20 Diver course in Kota Kinabalu promises more than just certification; it offers a genuine gateway to the underwater world of Borneo’s vibrant marine parks. For travelers keen on exploring the South China Sea’s colorful coral reefs and diverse sea life, this experience combines education, adventure, and a bit of tropical paradise.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the personalized attention from experienced instructors and the short, scenic boat rides that deliver you straight into some of the most lively marine environments in Malaysia. The small group size (limited to four participants) ensures you get tailored guidance, which can be a real boost for confidence, especially if you’re new to diving.

A potential consideration is the requirement for pre-course online learning and physical fitness—you’ll need to be comfortable swimming in water deep enough that you can’t touch the bottom. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to plan accordingly if you’re staying outside central Kota Kinabalu.

This course is best suited for those who have a passion for marine life and are ready to earn their diving certification in a relaxed, friendly setting. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, this program aims to build confidence and skill in a spectacular setting.

Key Points

• Certification in 3 Days: Complete the RAID Open Water 20 Diver course, a recognized certification that allows exploration of the underwater world.
• Marine Park Environment: Dive at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, known for vibrant coral reefs and abundant sea life.
• Expert Guides & Small Groups: Personalized attention from instructors and small groups (max four participants) improve safety and learning.
• All-Inclusive Day: Lunch and drinks included, along with safety and diving equipment.
• Flexible & Safe: The tour emphasizes safety, with full safety equipment on board and a relaxed schedule tailored to your experience level.
• Ideal for Certified Divers: This isn’t for absolute beginners but a perfect option for certified divers wanting to explore new waters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey into Your Underwater Adventure

The adventure kicks off early, with a meeting at Jesselton Point Jetty at 8:45 am. The friendly team from Borneo Dream will escort you onto a well-equipped boat, ready for a day filled with underwater discovery. The boat, praised for its quality and safety features, becomes your floating classroom and playground for the next few hours.

The first dive usually starts around 10 am, after a brief safety and gear check. Expect to spend your time exploring reefs between 5 to 30 meters deep. The water’s clarity and the diversity of marine life will be the first things that strike you. From tiny, brightly colored fish to larger creatures like turtles, you’ll see why Sabah’s waters are part of the world’s most biodiverse marine areas—the Coral Triangle.

After your initial immersion, you’ll enjoy a relaxing surface interval on the boat’s sun deck, soaking up the tropical sun and taking in the stunning views of islands scattered across the sea. Then, it’s time for the second, and later, the third dive, each offering different sites and encounters.

A real highlight is the lunch break—a laid-back affair on one of the islands within the marine park. We loved the way this pause lets you refuel and chat with fellow divers while looking out over tranquil waters. It’s a simple but perfect moment in an action-packed day.

The final dive wraps up in the early afternoon, giving you ample time to return to Jesselton Point by around 4 pm. The whole day, including safety briefings, dives, and lunch, is designed to feel unhurried yet full.

What You Get for Your Money

At $368 per person, the course offers impressive value, particularly because it includes all necessary diving equipment, materials, certification fees, lunch, water, and boat transfers. Compared to standalone dive trips or courses in other tropical destinations, the comprehensive nature of this package makes it a great deal.

The small-group setting, with a 1:4 instructor-to-student ratio, means you’ll get plenty of attention, whether you’re new to diving or brushing up on skills. The focus on safety, combined with high-quality equipment and well-stocked boats, ensures peace of mind throughout your underwater adventure.

The online pre-course component is a smart touch, allowing you to complete your theory and knowledge assessments before arriving, saving precious time on the day of your dives. This makes the three days feel more like an adventure than a training session.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out

The star of this tour is the chance to explore Sabah’s marine biodiversity firsthand. The coral reefs here are part of the famed Coral Triangle, home to everything from tiny clownfish (yes, Nemo!) to graceful turtles. The guides are described as knowledgeable and conscientious, blending professionalism with humor, which makes learning both safe and fun.

Travelers have praised the guides’ dedication: “He and the boat captain, Azmi, are serious, conscientious but always with humor and good humor,” said a recent review. Such positive feedback highlights the importance of personal attention and expert knowledge in creating a memorable experience.

The scenic boat rides, often rated as one of Kota Kinabalu’s best, are smooth and comfortable, with plenty of space on deck to relax between dives. The environmental fees—Sabah Parks Conservation Fees and jetty fees—are included, supporting the preservation of these delicate ecosystems.

Practical Details & Tips

• Meeting Point & Timing: Meet at 8:45 am under the Jesselton Point Jetty archway. The activity ends back at this spot around 4 pm.
• What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, and any personal water safety gear if preferred. Arrive dressed in your swimwear, as the schedule starts early.
• Not Included: Hotel transfers, so plan your transportation to Jesselton Point accordingly.
• Health & Fitness: You’ll need to be healthy, able to swim comfortably in water deep enough to require gear, and prepared for physical activity.
• Language: Guides speak Malay and English.
• Group Size: Limited to four people, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Cancellation & Rescheduling: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

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Authentic Feedback & Real Experiences

Marie’s glowing review captured the spirit well: “Very nice experience, we enjoyed learning with Bas. He and the boat captain, Azmi, are serious, conscientious but always with humor and good humor. We recommend to obtain the PADI Open Water Diver certificate.” It’s clear that the guides’ professionalism and friendly approach make a difference.

Many travelers appreciate the stunning views and the chance to see a variety of marine creatures in their natural habitat. The combination of learning, snorkeling, and sightseeing makes this not just a certification course but a genuine tropical adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This course is perfect for certified divers who want to explore Borneo’s underwater world in a safe, friendly environment. It’s not suited for non-swimmers or those with respiratory issues or high blood pressure. If you’re looking for a relaxing yet educational experience that combines learning with fun, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re short on time but eager to get a professional certification while enjoying tropical scenery and marine life, this 3-day course offers excellent value. Plus, the small groups and expert guidance make it a comfortable choice for those nervous about diving or new to the sport.

The Sum Up

The RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course in Kota Kinabalu offers a balanced mix of education, adventure, and authentic marine encounters. It’s a well-structured, safe, and enjoyable way to gain diving certification while exploring one of the world’s most biodiverse marine regions. The small-group format, expert guides, and stunning reef environments make this experience stand apart from typical snorkeling or recreational dives.

Whether you’re a seasoned diver eager to expand your horizons or a certified diver looking to tick off a bucket-list destination, this course combines value with outstanding natural beauty. Expect to leave with new skills, memorable sights, and stories to tell for years to come.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This tour requires pre-existing certification, so it’s not for true beginners, but it is designed to accommodate a range of experience levels with personalized guidance.

What time does the tour start and end?
You meet at 8:45 am at Jesselton Point Jetty, and the activity concludes around 4 pm, including dives, lunch, and transfers.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunches are provided on diving days, along with drinking water.

What equipment is included?
All necessary diving equipment and PADI materials are provided, along with final certification.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is hotel pickup available?
Not included. You need to make your own arrangements to get to Jesselton Point.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, and any personal water safety gear you prefer.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, with positive reviews highlighting their professionalism.

What marine life can I expect to see?
Expect to see colorful corals, clownfish, turtles, and a variety of tropical fish typical of Sabah’s reefs.

Is there an online component?
Yes, online learning is completed prior to the course start, making the on-site experience smooth and efficient.

This 3-day course in Kota Kinabalu offers a fantastic way to start your underwater journey, full of vibrant marine life, expert guidance, and tropical scenery. If you’re ready to add a new skill and see some of the most beautiful reefs in the world, this might just be the adventure you’ve been waiting for.

You can check availability for your dates here: