Ferry Schedules
Sabah doesn't have a ferry network like Peninsular Malaysia, but boats are essential for reaching islands and some coastal destinations. Here's every route you need to know.
The TARP island ferry terminal has relocated from Jesselton Point to South Jetty, behind Jesselton Quay. KK–Labuan ferries still depart from Jesselton Point.
TARP Islands (KK)
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Departure | South Jetty, KK (relocated March 2026) |
| Islands | Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, Gaya, Sulug |
| Hours | Daily 8am–4pm (last return ~4pm) |
| Frequency | Every 15–30 min depending on demand |
| Fare (1 island) | RM35 |
| Fare (2 islands) | RM45 |
| Fare (3 islands) | RM55 |
| Park fee (foreigner) | RM20 |
| Park fee (local) | RM10 |
| Terminal fee (adult) | RM7.20 |
Multiple licensed operators at the jetty counter. Combo tickets for 2–3 islands are available. Sea conditions may affect schedules October–March (monsoon season).
KK to Labuan
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Departure | Jesselton Point, KK |
| Duration | ~3 hours |
| Fare | RM45–90 depending on class |
| Frequency | Multiple daily departures |
Labuan is a duty-free island — chocolates, alcohol, and cigarettes are significantly cheaper. A popular day trip or weekend getaway from KK. Labuan also connects to Brunei.
Labuan to Brunei
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Route | Labuan → Muara (Brunei) |
| Duration | ~2 hours |
| Fare | ~RM63 |
| Frequency | Daily services |
Passport required. This is an international border crossing — check Brunei visa requirements for your nationality before boarding.
Semporna Island Boats
| Route | Duration |
|---|---|
| Semporna → Kapalai | ~40 min |
| Semporna → Mabul | ~45 min |
| Semporna → Sipadan | ~60 min |
| Semporna → Bohey Dulang | ~45 min |
These are not public ferries — all arranged through dive operators, resorts, or tour packages. You cannot just show up at Semporna jetty and buy a ticket to Sipadan. Sipadan requires a permit (176 per day) booked months in advance.
Turtle Islands (Sandakan)
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Departure | Sandakan, daily at 10am (join-in boat) |
| Duration | ~1 hour |
| Type | Overnight only (must stay on island) |
| Booking | Licensed tour operators, advance booking essential |
| Peak nesting | July–October |
Mantanani Island
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Departure | Kota Belud jetty (not Kudat town) |
| Duration | 1–1.5 hours speedboat |
| Booking | Through tour operators |
| Best season | March–September (calm seas) |
River Boats
| River / Route | Type | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Kinabatangan River | Motorized longboats | Wildlife cruises — proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, hornbills |
| Klias Wetlands | Evening cruises | Firefly watching, ~2h from KK |
| Padas River | Rafting boats | White water rafting, Grade 3–4 rapids |
River boats are arranged through lodges and tour operators, not public services. Kinabatangan wildlife cruises are typically included in 2D1N or 3D2N lodge packages.
General Tips
- Book ahead: Peak season (June–August) boats sell out, especially Sipadan permits
- Seasickness: Carry medication — seas are rougher October–March
- Life jackets: Mandatory on all boats (should be provided)
- Cash: Bring cash for smaller operators — not all accept cards
- Weather cancellations: Common during monsoon. Keep your itinerary flexible
- No plastic bags: Banned across all Sabah Parks from January 1, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Q Can I book ferries online?
Q Do ferries run during monsoon season?
Q Can I take a ferry to Brunei from Sabah?
Q Is seasickness a problem on Sabah ferries?
Q What are luggage limits on ferries?
Q How far in advance should I book Sipadan?
Sources & References 6 sources
Last verified: March 2026