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Charter Options

kelpsynas offers three charter formats designed for different schedules and marine exploration interests. Each option provides access to specific reef locations with appropriate vessel types and crew support.

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Charter Approach

Each charter format addresses different time availability and marine environment interests. The morning visit suits those with limited days in Semporna, the full-day marine park charter allows for comprehensive reef exploration, and the multi-day passage provides extended access to the waters around Sipadan.

All charters include professional crew, maintained vessels, snorkelling equipment, and refreshments or meals as specified. Marine park entry fees are included where applicable. The crew provides briefings on reef interaction protocols and species information during the charter.

Route planning accounts for weather conditions, tide timing, and current patterns. The boat captain makes final decisions regarding site selection and departure based on safety assessments. Guests receive advance notice if weather requires rescheduling.

Detailed Charter Information

Mabul Island morning charter

Mabul Island Morning Visit

MYR 1,200 per charter

This four-hour charter departs from Semporna Jetty for Mabul Island, covering the distance in approximately thirty minutes aboard a 30-foot fibreglass speedboat. The remaining time allows for snorkelling at the house reef and exploration of the stilt village community.

Charter Details:

  • Duration: 4 hours (typically 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM)
  • Capacity: Up to 6 guests
  • Vessel: 30-foot speedboat with bench seating
  • Crew: Boat driver and marine guide

Included:

  • Snorkelling equipment (masks, fins, snorkels)
  • Light snack box and drinking water
  • Life jackets and safety equipment
  • Reef briefing and guided snorkelling session
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Tun Sakaran Marine Park day charter

Tun Sakaran Marine Park Day

MYR 3,600 per charter

A comprehensive full-day exploration of the Tun Sakaran Marine Park, a protected area encompassing multiple islands and reef systems. The 36-foot twin-engine boat provides canopy coverage and bench seating for eight guests, with three planned snorkelling stops across different reef environments.

Charter Details:

  • Duration: 8 hours (typically 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM)
  • Capacity: Up to 8 guests
  • Vessel: 36-foot twin-engine boat with canopy
  • Crew: Boat driver, marine guide, and cook

Included:

  • Three snorkelling sessions at coral gardens, wall drops, and sandy slopes
  • Beach lunch (rice, grilled fish, sambal, fruit)
  • Marine park entry fee
  • All snorkelling equipment and safety gear
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Sipadan passage charter

Sipadan Passage Charter

MYR 9,400 per charter

A two-day, one-night charter focused on the waters around Sipadan, Mabul, and Kapalai. The 44-foot live-aboard cruiser features two guest cabins, a covered deck lounge, and full galley for meal preparation. Multiple snorkelling sessions include Sipadan's notable drop-off wall.

Charter Details:

  • Duration: 2 days, 1 night
  • Capacity: Up to 6 guests
  • Vessel: 44-foot live-aboard with 2 cabins
  • Crew: Skipper, marine guide, and cook

Included:

  • Multiple snorkelling sessions at Sipadan, Mabul, and Kapalai sites
  • All meals prepared onboard (3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners)
  • Cabin accommodations with bedding
  • Snorkelling equipment and safety gear

Note: Sipadan permits must be arranged in advance and are not included in the charter price. kelpsynas handles the permit application process on behalf of guests.

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Charter Comparison

Feature Mabul Morning Marine Park Day Sipadan Passage
Duration 4 hours 8 hours 2 days, 1 night
Price MYR 1,200 MYR 3,600 MYR 9,400
Guest Capacity 6 guests 8 guests 6 guests
Snorkel Sites 1 location 3 locations 5+ locations
Meals Snack box Beach lunch All meals onboard
Sipadan Access
Overnight Stay
Ideal For Limited time Reef variety Extended exploration

Selection Guidance

Choose Mabul Morning if:

  • • You have only a half-day available
  • • Interested in village culture
  • • First-time snorkelling

Choose Marine Park Day if:

  • • You want diverse reef types
  • • Prefer returning same day
  • • Larger group participation

Choose Sipadan Passage if:

  • • Sipadan access is priority
  • • Comfortable with overnight stay
  • • Extended marine observation

Operational Standards

Vessel Specifications

All boats meet Malaysian maritime safety standards and undergo monthly maintenance checks. Engines are serviced according to manufacturer schedules. Safety equipment includes life jackets, VHF radio, first aid kits, and emergency flotation devices.

Crew Qualifications

Boat captains hold valid maritime licenses. Marine guides complete training in reef ecology and species identification. All crew members maintain current first aid and CPR certifications. Guides provide briefings in English and Bahasa Malaysia.

Weather Protocols

Departures are confirmed after morning weather assessment. The captain evaluates wind speed, wave height, and forecast conditions. If weather is unsuitable, guests receive notification and the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Environmental Compliance

kelpsynas follows Sabah Parks regulations for the Tun Sakaran Marine Park and Sipadan Island. Anchoring procedures minimize reef contact. Waste management protocols are implemented on all charters. Guides emphasize non-contact reef interaction.

Ready to Book Your Charter?

Contact kelpsynas to discuss available dates, confirm pricing, and address any specific requirements. We're based at Semporna Jetty and operate throughout the year during suitable weather conditions.

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