Where coral meets jungle — from Sipadan’s reefs to the Kinabatangan River’s wildlife.
An Expedition Through Sabah’s Coral Reefs and Jungle Shores
On the northern shoulder of Borneo lies a coastline few travellers ever see — a labyrinth of coral atolls, river deltas, and rainforest headlands where the South China Sea meets the Sulu and Celebes Seas. Borneo’s Secret Coastline is a 12-day voyage revealing this wild confluence of ocean and jungle: a seamless blend of marine biodiversity, ancient cultures, and raw natural drama. From the coral sanctuaries of Tun Sakaran to the riverine jungles of Kinabatangan, this journey moves between sea and land in perfect rhythm. You’ll dive among rare marine species, visit stilted Bajau villages built on the tide, and witness orangutans swinging free in the treetops. It’s an expedition of contrasts — remote, cinematic, and profoundly alive.
Day 1 – Kota Kinabalu Embarkation
Join your yacht at Sutera Harbour Marina. After a welcome reception and briefing, cruise into Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park for your first swim over coral gardens alive with clownfish and butterflyfish. Dine on deck as the sun sinks behind Mount Kinabalu’s distant silhouette.
Day 2 – Pulau Tiga & Snake Island
Sail southwest toward Pulau Tiga, famed for its volcanic mud baths and wildlife. Go ashore for a natural spa experience before a guided walk through the coastal forest. Afternoon snorkelling at Snake Island, where sea snakes glide harmlessly among reefs. Overnight under a canopy of stars.
Day 3 – Mantanani Islands
A morning sail brings you to Mantanani, a group of low-lying sand islets with vibrant reefs. Dive with your marine guide to spot hawksbill turtles and schooling jackfish. Visit a small Bajau village for a glimpse into sea nomad life.
Day 4 – Kudat Peninsula
Round Borneo’s northern tip, where the Sulu and South China Seas converge. Explore the Rungus tribe’s longhouses, renowned for their beadwork and honey gathering. Return to the yacht for a sunset sail along the Kudat coastline.
Day 5 – Tun Sakaran Marine Park
A full day’s passage eastward brings you into the heart of Semporna’s marine wilderness. Dive at Bohey Dulang’s steep walls and snorkel around the coral shallows of Sibuan. Ascend the volcanic ridge of Bohey Dulang for panoramic views of turquoise lagoons below.
Day 6 – Mabul Island
Anchor off Mabul, a floating village of stilted houses surrounded by coral drop-offs. Explore by tender, meeting local dive masters who pioneered nearby Sipadan’s fame. Afternoon dive at Mabul’s artificial reef to photograph ornate ghost pipefish and frogfish.
Day 7 – Sipadan Reef
Wake early for a full day of diving at Sipadan, one of the world’s most revered marine sanctuaries. Experience the Barracuda Tornado, turtle caverns, and schooling reef sharks in crystal-clear visibility. Non-divers can enjoy a snorkel and beach picnic. Return to Mabul for a relaxed dinner under lanterns.
Day 8 – Pom Pom Island
Cruise north to Pom Pom, a private island ringed by fine white sand and coral gardens. Join the resident conservation team tagging juvenile turtles before release. Afternoon at leisure for paddleboarding or reef snorkelling directly off the beach.
Day 9 – Lahad Datu & Danum Valley Transfer
Sail into Lahad Datu Bay, gateway to Borneo’s inland rainforests. Guests transfer by 4x4 into Danum Valley for a two-night land extension within the rainforest canopy. Overnight in a luxury eco-lodge, surrounded by the sounds of cicadas and distant gibbons.
Day 10 – Danum Valley Rainforest
Explore jungle trails with your naturalist guide. Spot orangutans, hornbills, and pygmy elephants in the wild. Return for dinner overlooking the river, accompanied by the ambient chorus of the forest at night.
Day 11 – Kinabatangan River
Rejoin the yacht and cruise to the mouth of the Kinabatangan River. Board a tender for a sunset river safari, drifting through mangrove channels alive with proboscis monkeys and crocodiles. Farewell dinner aboard featuring Bornean fusion cuisine and local wines.
Day 12 – Sandakan Disembarkation
Morning sail into Sandakan Harbour. Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre before departure. Farewell brunch on deck before onward transfer to Sandakan Airport.
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