Sandakan Jetty
Introduction
Located in the heart of Sandakan, Sabah, the Sandakan Jetty serves as a vital transportation hub connecting travelers to the nearby islands of the Sulu Sea, including Turtle Islands Park (Pulau Selingan) and Lankayan Island. Known as the gateway to Sabah’s eco-tourism wonders, this bustling waterfront terminal welcomes visitors exploring wildlife sanctuaries, historic landmarks, and marine parks. Whether you’re planning a diving trip, an island-hopping adventure, or a heritage tour, Sandakan Jetty is where your journey begins.
Location and Map
Address: Jalan Buli Sim Sim, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
Coordinates: 5.8382° N, 118.1183° E
Sandakan Jetty is situated along the town’s central waterfront, within walking distance of Sandakan Harbour Mall and major hotels.
Map: Google Maps Location – Sandakan Jetty
How to Get to Sandakan Jetty
From Sandakan Airport (SDK)
- By Taxi/Grab: Approximately 20 minutes drive (12 km).
- By Bus: Airport buses are available to Sandakan town; from there, take a short taxi ride to the jetty.
From Kota Kinabalu
- By Flight: 45-minute domestic flight to Sandakan Airport, then 20 minutes to the jetty.
- By Bus: Long-distance coaches (7–8 hours) from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan town.
From Lahad Datu
- By Car/Bus: Around 3 hours (180 km) via Lahad Datu-Sandakan Highway.
Ferry Routes and Schedules
The jetty primarily serves routes to nearby islands for eco-tourism and diving. Below is a guide to the main ferry and boat routes from Sandakan Jetty.
Ferry & Boat Routes Table
| Destination | Operator | Duration | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turtle Islands Park (Pulau Selingan) | Sabah Parks Boat | 45 mins | Daily (8:00 AM) | Requires permit from Sabah Parks |
| Lankayan Island | Lankayan Island Dive Resort | 1.5 hrs | Daily (9:00 AM) | For resort guests only |
| Libaran Island | Libaran Island Lodge | 40 mins | Daily (on request) | Eco-tourism & turtle watching tours |
Ticket Prices (Approx.)
| Route | Adult (MYR) | Child (MYR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turtle Islands (including permit) | 250–300 | 200 | Includes park fee & transfer |
| Lankayan Island | Package only | Package only | Included in resort booking |
| Libaran Island | 150–200 | 100 | Includes return transfer & guide |
Prices may vary depending on season and operator.
Operating Hours
| Service | Hours |
|---|---|
| Jetty Terminal | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Ferry Ticket Counters | 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Boat Departures | Usually 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM |
Facilities at Sandakan Jetty
Sandakan Jetty provides essential facilities to ensure comfort and convenience for travelers:
- Restrooms and Waiting Area
- Ticketing Counters for ferry and island transfers
- Restaurants & Cafes nearby, including local seafood stalls and Sandakan Harbour Mall eateries
- ATMs located within walking distance at Harbour Mall
- Prayer Hall (Surau) available within 5-minute walk
- Taxi and Grab pick-up points at the entrance
- Tour Operator Booths for island packages and wildlife tours
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Agnes Keith House | 1.5 km | Historical home offering insights into colonial-era Sandakan. |
| Sandakan Memorial Park | 11 km | Dedicated to WWII POWs; serene and educational. |
| Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre | 25 km | World-famous sanctuary for rescued orangutans. |
| Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre | 25 km | Home to the world’s smallest bear species. |
| Turtle Islands Park | Accessible by boat | A conservation area for turtle nesting and eco-tours. |
Tips for International Travelers
- Immigration: Visitors traveling to Turtle Islands Park must present their passport for park registration (as the area is near Philippine waters).
- Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) is the accepted currency. Currency exchange is available at Sandakan town or Harbour Mall.
- Duty-Free: No duty-free zone at the jetty, but Sandakan town offers shopping for souvenirs and local crafts.
- Language: English and Malay are widely spoken among operators and tour guides.
- Safety: Follow all boat safety instructions; wear life jackets on smaller vessels.
Getting Around Locally
- Grab e-Hailing: The easiest way to travel around Sandakan town and to/from the jetty.
- Taxi: Readily available near major hotels and Harbour Mall.
- Local Buses: Operate between Sandakan town and nearby residential areas.
- Car Rentals: Available at Sandakan Airport and downtown for exploring wider Sabah attractions.
Travel Tips
- • Bring sunscreen and insect repellent for island trips.
- • Arrive 30–45 minutes early before boat departure.
- • Book permits for Turtle Islands Park at least a day in advance.
- • Keep cash ready, as smaller operators may not accept cards.
- • Check weather forecasts, especially during monsoon season (November–February).
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sandakan Waterfront, Sabah |
| Main Routes | Turtle Islands, Lankayan Island, Libaran Island |
| Ticket Range | MYR 150–300 |
| Operating Hours | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Facilities | Restrooms, ATMs, Prayer Hall, Restaurants |
| Nearby Attractions | Sepilok, Agnes Keith House, Sandakan Memorial Park |
| Access | 20 min from Sandakan Airport |
How to Get There from Major Airports
| Airport | Travel Option | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Sandakan Airport (SDK) | Taxi/Grab | 20 minutes |
| Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) | Flight to Sandakan + Taxi | 1 hour total |
| Tawau Airport (TWU) | Bus/Car via Lahad Datu | 6–7 hours |
Final Thoughts
Sandakan Jetty is more than a ferry terminal—it’s your passageway to the wild beauty of Borneo’s east coast. Whether you’re heading to the Turtle Islands, exploring Sepilok’s wildlife sanctuaries, or venturing into the Sulu Sea, this jetty serves as the heart of Sandakan’s eco-tourism experience. With its convenient location, essential amenities, and access to Sabah’s most breathtaking destinations, Sandakan Jetty is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable journey.
FAQ
1. Where is Sandakan Jetty located?
It’s located along Jalan Buli Sim Sim, in Sandakan town, about 20 minutes from Sandakan Airport.
2. What islands can I visit from Sandakan Jetty?
Popular destinations include Turtle Islands Park, Lankayan Island, and Libaran Island.
3. Are there restaurants near Sandakan Jetty?
Yes, there are local eateries, seafood stalls, and cafes around the waterfront and Harbour Mall area.
4. Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, advance booking is recommended for island tours and Turtle Islands permits due to limited daily visitors.
5. What’s the best time to visit?
The best time is from March to October, during the dry season, offering calm seas and clear skies.
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