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

If you’re dreaming of exploring the underwater world around Borneo, this 3-day RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course in Kota Kinabalu offers a great way to earn your certification while soaking up tropical island vibes. Whether you’re a seasoned diver looking to boost your qualifications or a newcomer eager to dip your toes into the sea, this course is tailored to give you a safe, educational, and truly memorable experience.

What we really appreciate about this program is how personalized it feels—small groups (limited to just 4 participants) mean attentive guidance from experienced instructors. Plus, the chance to learn in a lively marine park close to the city makes the logistics straightforward and stress-free.

On the flip side, you’ll want to be comfortable with water activities and swimming in deeper waters—the course isn’t suited for non-swimmers or those with certain health issues.

This tour is ideal for travelers who are enthusiastic about discovering marine biodiversity, enjoying incredible scenery, and gaining a new skill in a relaxed, supportive environment. If you’re ready to explore the vibrant coral reefs of Sabah, this could very well be your gateway to a whole new underwater world.

Key Points

• Certification in 3 days: You’ll earn your RAID Open Water 20 Diver certification, opening the door to explorar future dives.
• Expert guidance: Small group size ensures personalized attention and safety from qualified instructors.
• Diverse marine life: Dive into the Coral Triangle, spotting everything from clownfish to turtles amid spectacular coral formations.
• Convenient location: The marine park is just a short boat ride from central Kota Kinabalu.
• Inclusive package: Lunch, equipment, and necessary materials are included—making it a hassle-free experience.
• Flexible and safe: Online learning before the start helps you prepare, while the boat is well-equipped with safety gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Introduction to Kota Kinabalu’s Marine Park

Starting at Jesselton Point Jetty, you’ll meet your guides bright and early, typically at 8:45 am. The short boat ride across the South China Sea will bring you to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a cluster of islands famed for their vibrant coral reefs and friendly sea creatures. The scenery from the boat itself offers a pleasant preview of what’s to come—crystal-clear waters and lush green islands framed by a lively coastline.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day is well-structured to balance instruction, fun, and relaxation. You’ll start with a comprehensive briefing on safety procedures and dive plans. After donning your gear, the first dive kicks off around 10 am, where you’ll begin to see the colorful underwater world that makes this region famous. The reefs are teeming with tropical fish, and every step beneath the surface reveals something new—a clownfish darting between corals, a curious turtle gliding past, or a school of vibrant fish swirling around.

Following your first splash, you’ll enjoy a soothing surface interval on the boat’s sun deck, where you can unwind and take in the peaceful island scenery. The second dive generally happens at noon, offering a fresh perspective on the marine landscape while the tropical sun warms your shoulders.

Lunch and Relaxation

Around 1 pm, you’ll land on an island for a leisurely lunch—an appreciated pause in the middle of a busy morning. The included meal is a simple, relaxed affair, giving you energy for the afternoon’s activities. Many reviews highlight how much participants enjoyed the lunch, describing it as a great chance to chat about the morning’s dives and plan the next.

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The Final Dive and Return

After re-fueling, you’ll gear up again for the third and final dive, typically starting around 2:30 pm. By mid-afternoon, you’ll head back to Jesselton Point, arriving around 4 pm—ready to share stories and photos of your underwater adventures.

What Sets This Tour Apart

One of the top benefits is the personalized attention—with a 1:4 instructor-to-student ratio, you’re unlikely to feel lost or overwhelmed. Plus, the instructors’ focus on safety and education ensures you understand and feel comfortable throughout the process.

The marine park’s location is a huge advantage. Being just minutes from the city means you don’t have to worry about long travel days or complicated logistics. The reefs are shallow enough for most levels (from 5 meters to 30 meters), providing plenty of opportunities for both beginners and more experienced divers to enjoy.

The Certification and Its Value

Earning your RAID Open Water 20 Diver certification in just three days is quite efficient. This qualification is accepted worldwide, so it’s a solid foundation for exploring more advanced courses or simply enjoying recreational dives in the future. The course includes all necessary materials, and you’ll leave with your certification card, ready to explore Borneo’s underwater treasures independently or with guided tours.

Equipment and Safety

The equipment used is modern and well-maintained, with safety gear onboard the boat readily available. The small group setting means instructors can focus on your individual needs, making sure your gear fits properly and your skills are solid before heading into the water.

The Local Environment and Biodiversity

Sabah’s waters are part of the Coral Triangle, renowned for unmatched marine biodiversity. The reefs are vibrant and healthy, with a stunning array of corals and wide variety of fish. The presence of turtles, along with the colorful reef inhabitants, makes each dive a visual feast. This is not just about certification—it’s about experiencing a living, breathing ecosystem that is breathtaking in its diversity.

The Review Highlights

Marie’s review sums up the experience 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.” Participants consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and the stunning underwater views, which make the effort worthwhile.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This course is perfect for certified divers wanting to expand their qualifications in an accessible, fun environment. It’s equally suitable for adventurous travelers eager to add a new skill while enjoying tropical island scenery. It’s ideal if you don’t mind a packed schedule with a full day of activities, and if you’re comfortable swimming in water over your head.

However, non-swimmers or those with respiratory issues or high blood pressure should consider whether they’re comfortable with the physical demands and water depth involved. The course requires online pre-study, so a degree of planning is necessary.

The Sum Up

This 3-day RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course in Kota Kinabalu offers excellent value for travelers eager to explore Sabah’s marine biodiversity. The combination of expert instruction, small groups, and a stunning tropical setting creates a safe and enjoyable environment to earn your diving certification. It’s a wonderful way to turn your holiday into an adventure full of vibrant colors and fascinating sea creatures, all while gaining a skill that can open up new horizons.

Whether you’re looking to dive deeper in the future or just want to experience the underwater magic for the first time, this tour provides a practical, fun, and memorable introduction to the world beneath the waves. If you love nature, enjoy learning new things, and are up for a splash of adventure, this course will likely be a highlight of your trip to Sabah.

FAQ

Is this course suitable for beginners?
No, this course is designed for certified divers. Beginners would need a different, entry-level course such as the PADI Open Water.

How many dives are included?
You will participate in three dives over the course of the day, exploring different sites in the marine park.

What is the maximum depth for diving?
Dives can go up to 98 feet (30 meters), with most dives starting around 16 feet (5 meters) for beginners and more advanced divers.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunches are provided on the diving days, offering a relaxed break and a chance to socialize.

What equipment is provided?
All necessary diving gear is included in the package, and the boat is equipped with full safety equipment.

Can I join if I haven’t done online learning?
No, online learning must be completed prior to the course start date, ensuring you’re prepared and familiar with the basics.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, and any personal items you might need. Arrive with your swimwear under your clothes each morning.

Are there any restrictions?
People with respiratory issues or high blood pressure should consult their doctor. Non-swimmers are not suitable for this course.

What is the group size?
Limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention from guides.

When and where do I meet?
Meet at 8:45 am under the archway at Jesselton Point Jetty in central Kota Kinabalu; the activity ends at the same location.

Whether you’re seeking a new adventure or a way to deepen your diving skills, this course in Kota Kinabalu delivers a mix of education, excitement, and spectacular scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby