After going through a major renovation in the late 90s, Jesselton Point has become the main ferry terminal of Kota Kinabalu. AS many as six companies are granted licenses to ferry people from the terminal to the islands, which will take about 10 to 20 minutes. These islands are Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi, Sulug and Gaya. All these islands and part of Gaya made up Tunku Abdul Raham Marine Park which is very popular with tourists.
The islands off Kota Kinabalu are the most visited destinations on the west coast of Sabah after Kinabalu National Park. These islands are the prefect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Activities like swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, and sand castle building especially for the children fill the day. Or one can join the unique “Scuba Doo” (mini-submarine), where one gets to tag along with the fishes, no scuba diving certificate is needed for this ride. For the less energetic consuming activities, books and sun bathing is a well trusted combination. Just remember to use lots of sun tan lotions. Or laze the afternoon away lying under the tropical trees, enjoy the cool breeze plus a great sea view. Hopping from island to island is also another activity to consider.
Sabah formerly known as North Borneo is the wildlife destination of South East Asia, and the Kinabatangan River area is known to have the highest concentration of wildlife in Borneo, Malaysia. Sabah is also home to the extremely cute Orang Utans, and the very unique Proboscis monkeys. Last December some 60 diplomats from around the world voted Sabah as the best tourist destination in Malaysia. These votes do speak volume, and finally the world has come to recognise Sabah as a top tourist destination.
To visit all the tourist destinations of Sabah, one will probably need a month to do so. If time does not permit below is a seven day itinerary tour programme by Wildlife Expedition, which combines the best of west and east coast of Sabah. Guest will travel by air, canoe, boat, and coach to reach various interesting places. The followings are excerpts from a Wildlife Expedition brochure.
Sepilok Orangutan
Agnes Keith House
Suria Sabah
No Coal Plant
Paperlace Gift & Hamper Services
GG Rent A Motorbike