Semporna Islands: Bohey Dulang Hike & Snorkeling Day Trip

Summary

Bohey Dulang’s ridge, Mantabuan reefs, Sibuan’s quiet sands—one wild Semporna day

You’ll hike up Bohey Dulang for sweeping lagoon views, snorkel among Mantabuan’s coral gardens with a local guide close by, and sink your toes into Sibuan’s powdery sand before heading back to Semporna. Expect laughter on the boat, salty hair, and moments that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the boat’s engine echoed over the water as we left Semporna behind—just that low hum and the wind picking up salt in my hair. Our guide, Hafiz, handed out bright orange life jackets and grinned like he’d done this a thousand times. He pointed out Bohey Dulang rising ahead, all blue-green folds against the sky. The climb up wasn’t easy—honestly, I had to stop halfway to catch my breath (and pretend I was just admiring the view). But when we reached the top, even Hafiz went quiet for a second. The lagoon below looked unreal, like someone spilled turquoise paint everywhere.

I didn’t expect Mantabuan to feel so different—quieter somehow, with just a few other boats bobbing nearby. Snorkeling there felt like dropping into another world: soft coral brushing my arms, flashes of yellow fish darting past. At one point I got water in my mask and came up spluttering; Hafiz laughed and tossed me an extra towel from the boat. Lunch was simple—a packed rice dish with something spicy wrapped in banana leaf—and tasted better than it had any right to after all that swimming. The sun baked everything dry by then, but you could still smell seaweed on your skin.

Sibuan was last. The sand squeaked underfoot (I never knew sand could do that), and some local kids waved at us from under a palm tree while their parents mended nets nearby. I lay back in the shade for a while and watched clouds drift over the water, thinking about how far away home felt right then. We didn’t rush—no one did—and when it was finally time to go, I kept glancing back at that impossible blue-green water until it slipped out of sight behind us.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Bohey Dulang, Mantabuan, Sibuan

• Hike up Bohey Dulang
• Swim and snorkel at Bohey Dulang
• Navigate to Mantabuan island
• Snorkel at Mantabuan coral gardens
• Enjoy picnic lunch on boat
• Arrive at Sibuan island
• Relax on Sibuan beach
• Snorkel in Sibuan lagoon
• Capture photos and unwind

Top questions

How difficult is the Bohey Dulang hike?

The hike is moderately challenging; travelers should have at least moderate physical fitness.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Semporna day trip?

Yes, snorkeling gear and safety jackets are included for all participants.

Are meals or lunch included during the tour?

A packed lunch featuring local cuisine is provided during your island tour.

Do I need to arrange my own transport to Semporna jetty?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Are entrance fees covered in this tour?

Yes, entrance fees to Tun Sakaran Marine Park and hiking permits are included.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during transfers.

What language does the guide speak?

Your guide will speak both Malay and English throughout the trip.

What’s included

Your day includes boat transfers between Semporna and each island stop, all necessary snorkeling equipment plus safety jackets, entrance fees for Tun Sakaran Marine Park and hiking permits for Bohey Dulang, as well as a packed local lunch served onboard—with guidance from a friendly Malay-English-speaking local throughout your journey.