TRY SCUBA (non diver)

Semporna’s Try Scuba program gives you a gentle way into the underwater world without signing up for a full certification course. You’ll learn basic skills, make two guided underwater sessions, and still have time for snorkeling around Pulau Mabul and Mataking Island.

I like the small maximum group of 10 and the fact that the price includes equipment, meals, drinks, taxes, and underwater photography. The main thing to consider is that this is a full morning-and-afternoon outing, not a quick introductory activity, and you’ll need moderate physical fitness.

I also like the careful approach for first-timers. One instructor, Basir, is specifically noted for working with just two participants, with no more than four adults per instructor in that outing. That kind of close attention can make a real difference when breathing underwater feels strange at first.

Key points for your Semporna scuba day

• Two beginner underwater sessions: Learn basic skills and practice breathing underwater with a licensed instructor.
• Pulau Mabul and Mataking Island: The itinerary combines two well-known island stops rather than keeping you in one spot.
• Snorkeling after the scuba session: You can continue enjoying the water at a simpler pace once the equipment comes off.
• Small groups of 10 or fewer: The size allows for more direct help than a large boat group.
• Good value at $122.25: Equipment, food, drinks, taxes, and underwater photography are included.
• Plan around your flight: You must leave at least 18 hours between this activity and your next flight.

What your 8:30 am start really involves

The day begins at Jeti Pelancong Semporna Jetty on Jalan Bangau Bangau. The meeting point is in Pekan Semporna, near public transportation, and the activity returns to this same jetty at the end.

Allow the full six and a half hours. This is not a quick tryout squeezed between hotel breakfast and an afternoon transfer. You’ll need time for the boat journey, instruction, equipment, two underwater sessions, food, snorkeling, and movement between island stops.

For a beginner, that slower pace is useful. You are not being pushed straight into the water with a quick briefing and a wave goodbye. The program is built around learning the basic skills first, then using them under an instructor’s watch.

The group limit is 10 people. That does not guarantee a private lesson, but it does keep the outing from becoming a huge crowd. A separate booking detail notes a maximum of one instructor for every four adults in that outing, which gives you a useful idea of the level of supervision that may be available.

The operator is Seabunny Scubacations. Confirmation is normally issued at booking. If you book within two days of departure, confirmation can take up to 48 hours and depends on availability, so a last-minute plan needs a little patience.

Learning the basics before going underwater

You do not need previous scuba training for this program. The instructor introduces the basic skills needed for an entry-level session and explains what it feels like to breathe through scuba equipment.

That first breath underwater can be the hardest moment for a new participant. It is normal to feel nervous, and the program’s strongest feature is the presence of a trained, licensed instructor throughout the activity. One past instructor named Basir is described as calm and professional, qualities that matter more than a flashy personality when you are trying to settle your breathing.

The wording around the program identifies it as an entry-level Open Water activity, but it is not a full certification course. You are getting a first taste of scuba, not completing the classroom, pool, and skills requirements needed for an Open Water license.

That distinction matters. If you want to explore the sport before paying for a longer course, this is a sensible test. If you already know you want certification, this day may be useful preparation, but it will not replace the full training program.

You should also be comfortable with a moderate level of physical activity. The supplied details do not set out medical restrictions or a swimming requirement, so ask the operator directly about any health concern, medication, mobility issue, or uncertainty about your ability in the water before booking.

Pulau Mabul: your first island stop

Pulau Mabul is the first named stop. The island is part of Semporna’s well-known marine area and gives the program a proper island setting rather than a training pool or a shoreline-only lesson.

This is where the location adds value. You are learning basic scuba skills in the sea, with an instructor, instead of only practicing equipment in a controlled land-based setting. For many first-timers, that makes the experience feel like a real beginning rather than a demonstration.

At the same time, open-water conditions can feel more demanding than a pool. The water may move, visibility can vary, and the boat setting adds another layer of unfamiliarity. Do not expect the first few minutes to feel effortless. Listen closely, move slowly, and signal the instructor if you need to pause.

The plan includes two underwater sessions lasting 45 to 60 minutes in total, according to the supplied activity details. Since the wording does not clearly state whether that time applies to each session or both together, confirm the exact timing when you book if underwater duration is important to you.

Mataking Island and the second session

Mataking Island is the second named stop. Reaching two different island areas gives the day more variety than staying at one site, and it may provide different underwater conditions or scenery.

The itinerary does not promise particular marine animals or a specific visibility level. You might see interesting sea life, but conditions in the sea are never fully fixed. One first-time participant did see sea turtles, which shows what can be possible, but you should not treat turtles as a guarantee.

The second underwater session lets you use the skills introduced earlier. That is a real advantage for beginners. The first session is often about getting comfortable with the mask, regulator, breathing rhythm, and hand signals. The next gives you a chance to improve instead of ending just as you start to relax.

Still, two sessions can be tiring. If you are anxious in the water, the mental effort of concentrating on equipment and instructions may leave you ready for a quiet break. The six-and-a-half-hour schedule gives the day room to breathe, but it is still a long outing.

Snorkeling after the scuba session

Snorkeling is included after the scuba portion. This is more than a spare activity for people who finish early. It gives you a chance to enjoy the sea without carrying the full mental load of scuba equipment.

You can stay at the surface, watch the water below, and take a break from following technical instructions. That makes the program appealing if one person in your group wants to try scuba while another prefers a simpler water activity.

The details say snorkeling is complimentary, but they do not specify how long it lasts or exactly which stop hosts it. Ask the crew about the timing on the day. Weather and sea conditions can affect the order of activities.

The mix of scuba and snorkeling also helps with value. You are not paying for a short underwater introduction and then sitting on the boat. The activity gives you another way to enjoy the islands after the formal instruction is finished.

What the $122.25 price includes

At $122.25 per person, the cost is easier to justify because many common extras are already covered. The package includes:

• Scuba equipment
• All fees and taxes
• Food and drinks
• Underwater photography
• Snorkeling after the scuba portion

The underwater photography is a particularly useful inclusion. New scuba participants are often too busy managing breathing and equipment to take their own pictures. Having photography included means you can focus on the instruction and still have a visual record of the day.

Do not overlook the value of the equipment and food. Renting masks, tanks, and related gear separately can quickly push up the cost of a marine activity. Meals and drinks also save you from arranging supplies for a long day on the water.

A prescription mask is not included. If you need corrective lenses, ask about availability before paying. This is the one clearly stated equipment extra, and it can affect the total cost for people who cannot comfortably use a standard mask.

The price is less attractive if you only want a very short introduction or if you are already an experienced scuba participant. For a complete beginner who wants two sessions, island stops, snorkeling, food, and photography in one day, it is a fair package.

The small-group advantage for nervous beginners

A first scuba experience is not the time to feel lost in a crowd. The limit of 10 participants gives the instructor a better chance to watch everyone, answer questions, and respond when someone needs a slower pace.

The strongest personal account connected with this activity describes a first-timer who felt very nervous but ended the day feeling safe and delighted. That is exactly the kind of result a beginner program should aim for. You do not need to arrive fearless. You need an instructor who takes your nerves seriously.

Basir is named as an instructor who handled a two-person booking with a calm, professional manner. Instructor assignments can change, so do not assume he will lead every departure. Still, the example tells you what to look for: clear instructions, patience, and enough attention for you to ask for help.

Small does not mean private. The maximum is still 10 people, and the boat may include several groups. If you want a one-to-one session, confirm that arrangement before booking.

Fitness, flights, and practical planning

You should have a moderate fitness level. The activity involves a boat outing, scuba equipment, entering and leaving the water, and several hours away from the jetty. The supplied information does not give details about ladders, changing rooms, or exact boat facilities, so ask ahead if any of those points matter to you.

The most important timing rule concerns flying. The operator requires at least 18 hours between this activity and your next flight. The stated advice is to book a flight after 10 am, so plan carefully if you are leaving Semporna the following day.

That rule can shape your entire itinerary. A morning flight may not leave enough time after the activity, even if the flight appears to be the next day. Keep a generous margin rather than building a tight connection around the minimum.

Bring the booking confirmation on your phone since the activity uses a mobile ticket. Wear practical clothing for a boat day, and check with the operator about any personal items you should bring. The supplied details confirm food and drinks, but they do not list towels, hotel transfers, or personal clothing as included.

Who should book this experience

I would choose this program if you are curious about scuba but not ready to commit to certification. It suits a first-timer who wants instruction, two chances to practice, and the option to switch to snorkeling afterward.

It also works well for a mixed group. One person can try scuba while another enjoys snorkeling, although you should confirm how the group handles participants who do not take part in the underwater session.

You may want a different product if you need prescription equipment, want guaranteed sightings of a particular animal, or require a private instructor. The program also may not fit a tight travel schedule because of its length and the 18-hour no-flying rule.

Should you book this Semporna scuba day?

Book it if you want a structured first step into scuba, value close supervision, and like the idea of combining two underwater sessions with Pulau Mabul, Mataking Island, and snorkeling. The package includes enough extras to make the $122.25 price reasonable, especially the equipment, food, drinks, taxes, and underwater photography.

Skip it if you are looking for a quick activity, already hold scuba qualifications, or cannot arrange a flight with the required recovery time. For a nervous beginner, though, the calm instruction, small group limit, and second chance underwater make this one of the more sensible ways to try scuba in Semporna.

FAQ

Do I need previous scuba experience?

No. The program is designed for people with no prior experience and teaches basic scuba skills with a licensed instructor.

How long does the activity last?

The activity lasts approximately six hours and 30 minutes, beginning at 8:30 am and ending back at the Semporna jetty.

How many underwater sessions are included?

Two underwater sessions are included. The activity details describe the total scuba time as 45 to 60 minutes, so confirm the exact breakdown with the operator.

Is snorkeling included?

Yes. A complimentary snorkeling experience is included after the scuba portion.

What is included in the $122.25 price?

Scuba equipment, all fees and taxes, food, drinks, and underwater photography are included. A prescription mask is not included.

How long should I wait before flying?

The operator requires at least 18 hours between the activity and your next flight. The provided advice is to book a flight after 10 am.