The main appeal of snorkelling in Mabul Island is the opportunity to get acquainted with special types of marine life not seen elsewhere.
Snorkelling in Mabul is a great way to observe unique aquatic creatures in a natural setting, without the special equipment and skills required for scuba diving.
Snorkelling day trips & packages
To Mabul
You do not have to stay in Mabul in order to snorkel here. Many visitors, especially those on a tight budget, prefer staying at a hotel in Semporna, where accommodation is generally cheaper and freelance trips to many of Semporna’s islands may be organized.
► All Mabul snorkelling packages
From Mabul
Those staying in Mabul who wish to venture further or deeper may easily organize snorkelling trips to nearby islands, which may be combined with a lunch picnic by a deserted beach or even a trip to an uninhabited island.
Many of the homestays, dive operators and resorts in Mabul arrange daily snorkelling trips to nearby islands including Sipadan, Kapalai, Kulapuan, Si Amil and Danawan as well as those in Tun Sakaran Marine Park.
Before you go
At the beginning of your trip, you will likely receive a brief introduction from your experienced guide, who will cover basic safety, equipment usage, what to look out for and conservation instructions (corals are fragile organisms that are easily damaged).
Snorkelling requires no special training, only the ability to swim and breathe through the snorkel. As with scuba diving, it is recommended that one should not snorkel alone, but rather with a ‘buddy’ or group.
Special life vests for children may be available upon request. Be sure to take home memories of your underwater adventures by renting an underwater camera, if you don’t already own one.