Semporna Jetty
Introduction
Semporna Jetty, located in the coastal town of Semporna, Sabah, is the main departure point to the breathtaking islands of the Tun Sakaran Marine Park — including Mabul, Kapalai, Mataking, and Sipadan. Renowned for its clear turquoise waters and rich marine biodiversity, the jetty serves thousands of divers, backpackers, and tourists heading to some of the world’s best dive spots. Whether you’re island-hopping, diving, or simply exploring the town, Semporna Jetty is where every island adventure begins.
Location Details
Address: Jalan Kastam, 91308 Semporna, Sabah, Malaysia
Coordinates: 4.4817° N, 118.6112° E
Google Maps: Semporna Jetty Location
Located in central Semporna, the jetty is within walking distance of the town’s main hotels, eateries, and dive shops.
How to Get There
From Tawau International Airport (TWU)
- By Car/Taxi: Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes via Jalan Tawau–Semporna (about 80 km).
- Grab Ride: RM100–RM130 (subject to availability).
- Bus/Van: Shared vans are available at the airport and Tawau town (RM25–RM35 per person).
From Kota Kinabalu
- By Bus: 9–10 hours via Lahad Datu; fare around RM70–RM90.
- By Flight: Fly to Tawau Airport, then travel by taxi or van to Semporna Jetty.
Ferry Routes & Schedules
Ferries and speedboats operate from Semporna Jetty to nearby islands. Most boats are run by tour operators or dive resorts.
| Destination Island | Operator | Departure Times | Duration | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mabul Island | Scuba Junkie, Seaventures | 8:00 AM / 2:00 PM | 45 mins | For day trips or overnight stays |
| Kapalai Island | Various Dive Resorts | 8:30 AM / 2:00 PM | 45 mins | Resort transfer only |
| Mataking Island | The Reef Dive Resort | 9:00 AM / 2:30 PM | 60 mins | Advance booking required |
| Sipadan Island | Licensed Dive Operators | 6:00 AM | 60 mins | Entry permit required |
Note: All trips are subject to weather and sea conditions.
Ticket Prices (Approximate)
| Route | One-way Fare (RM) | Round Trip (RM) |
|---|---|---|
| Semporna – Mabul | 60 | 100 |
| Semporna – Kapalai | 70 | 120 |
| Semporna – Mataking | 80 | 140 |
| Semporna – Sipadan | 100 | 180 |
Prices may vary based on operator and season.
Operating Hours
- Jetty Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
- Ferry/Boat Services: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by operator)
- Ticket Counters: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Facilities at Semporna Jetty
Semporna Jetty offers essential traveler facilities to ensure a comfortable transition to your island journey.
- Waiting Area: Covered seating with fans
- Ticket Counters: Located near the entrance
- Toilets: Available near the waiting hall
- Restaurants & Cafés: Local seafood stalls and small eateries nearby
- ATMs: Maybank, CIMB, and BSN within 300 meters
- Prayer Room (Surau): Available inside the jetty complex
- Parking Area: Paid parking available for RM5–RM10/day
- Dive Shops & Tour Agencies: Lining the waterfront area for last-minute bookings
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance from Jetty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Bukit Tengkorak Archaeological Site | 4 km | Ancient artifacts and panoramic views |
| Semporna Mosque | 1 km | Beautiful seaside mosque |
| Tun Sakaran Marine Park | Accessible by boat | Home to Sipadan, Mabul, and Kapalai islands |
| Ocean Tourism Centre | 500 m | Local marine info hub and souvenir stalls |
| Dragon Inn Floating Resort | 300 m | Iconic overwater resort and dining spot |
Tips for International Travelers
- Immigration: Visitors arriving via Tawau Airport will clear immigration before heading to Semporna. Bring your passport and visa if required.
- Currency: Local currency is Malaysian Ringgit (RM). Money changers and ATMs are available in town.
- Duty-Free: Sipadan and surrounding islands are not duty-free zones; duty-free shopping is available in Labuan or Langkawi.
- Language: English and Malay widely spoken; most dive staff speak multiple languages.
- Health & Safety: Apply reef-safe sunscreen and carry seasickness tablets for boat rides.
Getting Around Locally
- Grab/Taxi: Convenient for short distances around town.
- Bicycle Rentals: Available at select hotels for RM10–RM20/day.
- Walking: Most attractions in Semporna town are within walking distance.
- Boat Charter: Private boats for island hopping can be arranged at the jetty or nearby tour offices.
Travel Tips
- 🧴 Bring essentials: Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent.
- 🎫 Book early: Especially for Sipadan, as diving permits are limited.
- 🕕 Arrive early: Morning ferries are often less crowded.
- 💧 Stay hydrated: Weather can be hot and humid.
- 📷 Keep electronics safe: Use waterproof bags for gadgets.
Summary Table: Semporna Jetty at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Jalan Kastam, Semporna, Sabah |
| Coordinates | 4.4817° N, 118.6112° E |
| Nearest Airport | Tawau International Airport (TWU) |
| Main Destinations | Mabul, Kapalai, Mataking, Sipadan |
| Operating Hours | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Ticket Prices | RM60–RM180 (round trip) |
| Facilities | Toilets, surau, parking, restaurants, ATMs |
| Best Visiting Time | March – October (dry season) |
Final Thoughts
Semporna Jetty is more than just a transit point — it’s the gateway to Sabah’s world-famous islands. With clear blue waters, efficient transport links, and nearby amenities, the jetty ensures a smooth start to your island adventure. Whether you’re diving in Sipadan, relaxing in Kapalai, or exploring the local culture, Semporna Jetty connects you to the wonders of Borneo’s coast.
FAQs About Semporna Jetty
1. Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance?
It’s recommended, especially during weekends or public holidays. Dive resorts usually arrange transfers for guests.
2. Are there direct ferries from Semporna to Tawau or Sandakan?
No, ferries only operate to nearby islands. Land transport is required for intercity travel.
3. Can I park overnight at Semporna Jetty?
Yes, overnight parking is available with security surveillance.
4. Is Semporna Jetty open during bad weather?
The jetty remains open, but boat services may be suspended for safety reasons.
5. What is the best time to visit Semporna?
The dry season from March to October offers calm seas and great visibility for diving and snorkeling.
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