Logistics · Destination Guide
Sipadan walls, Mabul macro, Kapalai shallows: Semporna is Sabah's best-of-both-worlds dive base
Updated Feb 13, 2026 • 18 sources
Use this travel brief to set arrival flow, local transit, and gear movement before you lock your itinerary.
Most visitors route through Sabah and fly to Tawau (TWU), then transfer by road to Semporna and onward by speedboat to island resorts. Sabah Parks describes Sipadan as about 45 minutes from Semporna town by speedboat in calm seas, but crossings can be slower in wind or rain.
A common planning pattern:
If you are arriving late in the day, consider overnighting in Tawau or Semporna so you do not miss fixed boat schedules.
Tawau Airport
TWU • WBKW
116 km • 116 km drive
Closest airport for Semporna. Most dive itineraries include an airport pickup or can arrange a private van transfer to Semporna.
Pre-booked van transfer, Taxi (negotiate or pre-arrange), Shared shuttle via dive operator
Kota Kinabalu International Airport
BKI • WBKK
480 km • Connect flight to TWU + 116 km drive
Sabah's main airport. Many international and domestic routes connect here before a short onward flight to Tawau (TWU) for Semporna.
Transport: Fly BKI to TWU, then road transfer, Overland travel is possible but slow for dive schedules
Semporna is compact and walkable around the jetty area. Most dive travelers rely on:
If you are staying on an island resort, local transport becomes mostly boat-based, with limited shopping and ATM access once you leave the mainland.
Malaysia entry rules depend on passport and nationality. In general, plan for:
Always verify current requirements with the Immigration Department of Malaysia and your airline because rules can change and airline checks are strict.
Domestic flights into Tawau can have tighter baggage allowances than long-haul legs. Practical tips:
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Cash is useful in Semporna for small meals, tips, and last-minute logistics. Cards are often accepted at higher-end resorts and some town hotels, but do not assume card terminals on boats or at small shops.
ATMs are available in Semporna town and in Tawau. Once you transfer to Mabul or Kapalai, access to cash can be limited, so withdraw what you need before leaving the mainland.
230V • 50Hz • G
Malaysia uses UK-style Type G plugs. Bring a travel adapter and consider a small power strip if you have multiple chargers.
Communications
Mobile coverage in Semporna town is generally reliable, but signal and Wi-Fi quality can drop on island resorts depending on weather and local infrastructure. If connectivity matters, buy a SIM/eSIM with data before leaving Tawau or Kota Kinabalu and download offline maps. For boat days, keep your phone in airplane mode to save battery and rely on the operator for marine communications.
Language
Bahasa Malaysia is the national language. English is widely used in dive operations and tourism-facing hotels. Local communities may also speak Bajau, Suluk, and other regional languages.
Insurance
Carry dive accident coverage (for example DAN or equivalent) plus general travel insurance that covers boat transfers and trip interruption. Keep policy numbers offline and share them with your buddy or trip leader. If you have pre-existing medical conditions, bring a printed summary and medications in original packaging.
Packing list
Pack for warm, humid conditions and boat spray:
Trip Planning
External Booking PartnerThis destination works either as a land-based plan or as a longer liveaboard itinerary. Use the guide for local planning, or compare boats if the remote circuit is the priority.
DiveJourney may earn referral revenue. Booking is handled by the partner and operator under their terms.