Review Author: Alex

Review Date: 19 Jun 2026

Review Body: This trip is amazing!! The guides are absolutely lovely and could not be more accommodating. The snorkelling was so fun and we saw so many fish, with all equipment provided. The lunch provided was also delicious. Couldn't recommend enough!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Jim

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: We had the absolute pleasure of spending a day on the private yacht Mawali with Captain Brendan and deckhand Jackie during our honeymoon, and it was nothing short of perfect. From the moment we stepped on board, they made us feel so welcome and completely at ease. The experience was incredible — we went snorkelling, relaxed on a beautiful local beach, enjoyed fantastic food and drinks, and even discovered the most breathtaking spot to watch the sunset. Every detail was thoughtfully looked after, and it truly felt like a day designed just for us. Brendan and Jackie were amazing hosts — professional, friendly, and so attentive — they couldn’t have done more to make the day special. It was without doubt one of the highlights of our honeymoon, and we’ll never forget it. We can’t recommend Mawali highly enough. If you’re looking for a truly memorable experience on the water, this is it.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Kelly FitzGerald

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: We booked Mawali for a snorkelling trip and then again for a sunset cruise (with snorkelling) for our last night. The Captain (Joel) and crew (Brendan & Zatrina) were really thorough with all our requests and went over and above for us. Our first snorkelling experience was great fun and we enjoyed the peace of the sails on the way back after a delicious lunch. For our last night in KK we went snorkelling off Gaya Island and then enjoyed a sunset cruise and dinner. We all felt the magic of the sunset that evening and how special it was to be in such a beautiful place with close friends. We capped off the night with Brendan showing us some solid dance moves under the moonlight. He is now a Swiftie ❤️ This was truly a special way to end our holiday and the crew felt like old friends. We can’t wait to return …practice your dancing Brendan!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Akif

Review Date: 06 May 2026

Review Body: Kota Kinabalu has always been known for its beautiful sunsets. So, when we got experience the sunset on a yacht while being out in the ocean, it was safe to say it was a magical experience. What made it better was the amazing team that was onboard and created a comfortable journey. Captain Joel and team was professional and attentive. They prepared small bites and drinks for us which was nice as we got to just enjoy the sailing experience being carefree. We got to experience stand-up paddle boarding which was exciting and see the beautiful Gaya island up close. If you’re a lover of sunsets and the ocean, this is the experience to get.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Matthew TAN

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: We wanted to end our holiday in Kota Kinabalu on a high, and Mawali Sailing manages to do that. Joval was patient in handling our inquiries and gave us the confidence to booking the private charter with them. The service was excellent. We were picked up on time. The crew and Captain weee very friendly. Captain was also very attentive and customized our itinerary. The fees included the non-alcoholic beverages on board. Beer and wine were extra but were very reasonably priced. The boat was clean and very well maintained. The sunset BBQ surpassed our expectations with the yummy food. Thank you Mawali. Hope to sail with you again!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Cecilia Tok

Review Date: 11 May 2026

Review Body: Went on the Mawali sailing experience for the sunset view and it ended up being one of the most peaceful parts of the trip. We did some paddle boarding while the sun was setting and it honestly felt so private and quiet — there were literally no other boats around except us. The captain and crew were also incredibly warm and welcoming from the moment we got on board, which made the whole experience feel even more special and comfortable. It didn’t feel crowded or touristy at all, just calm, intimate and really memorable. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a more peaceful and unique experience.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Chor Tiong Chong

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: It was a wonderful experience to cruise on a private yacht, the crews Joel and Brandon are very professional and friendly. You will get a fantastic and relax view when lying on the net at the front deck of the yacht. We are lucky that the weather is good and can see a beautiful sunset. If there is a stronger wind then it will be perfect to sail on the yacht, but with the stable cruise speed, we enjoy so much on the yacht. Highly recommended for a small group of people up to 12 persons to join this special sunset cruise, you will never regret and have a sweet memory.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Georgia Rae

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: I would highly recommend Mawali adventure tours. We booked Mawali charters for a snorkelling tour, and it was amazing we had to book for another day, a sunset charter on our last night. Joel and his crew showed us some great snorkelling spots, were really attentive in the water, the catering was absolutely delicious, and their hospitality was next level. thank you thank you thank you. this was definitely the highlight of our trip. amazing. incredible, breathtaking. P.S. don’t forget to ask about brendan’s dance moves. he will give you an amazing show!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Sanjieev

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: Great experience we had on the 4th of July 2025 with the Mawali catamaran and crew. Snorkeled around Sapi island, went over to Sapi island itself after that for a quick Island Hunt. The crew were professional, insightful and had deep passion for what they did. They were very committed, catering to everyone one of our trivial needs and request. Highly recommended Kudos to Noel, Janice, Brandon & Cathrine in managing and exceeding our expectations. Ps. Thanks for nurturing Sapi back to where she is now.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Majbritt Nielsen

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: We had a really nice day on the catamaran. There was a good atmosphere on board and the service was top notch. We had more than an hour to snorkel and paddle board in the beautiful water, where we were the only boat. The sea was clear and we saw many beautiful fish, including clownfish. Lunch was served on the deck, where my family and I sat and enjoyed life. This trip is recommended if you are tired of mass tourism and although it costs a lot of money, it is worth it👍

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Winson Chong

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: You will not regret the experience on this beauty of a vessel - Catamaran whether for a sunset cruise or for any special ocassion which in our case was to take our prewedding photos with my fiancée. Wonderful experience onboard by none other than the professional and friendly father and son combo - Captain Jerry & second-in-command Joel will definitely leave you awe-inspiring and wanting for a second trip. Cheers and kudos to you Joel and your dad Jerry!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: John

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: This is a must-experience in KK. From the breath-taking sunset experience to the warm hospitality of the captain and his crew. This yacth sailing experience is definitely one for the books! This was my most memorable experience from my first visit to Malaysia and I can't wait to come back. Shout out to Joel the captain and Brendan-my new found brothers aboard. 🍻Thank you Mawali Aventure and Tours! Love from the 🇵🇭😎

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Hanim

Review Date: 13 May 2026

Review Body: It’s true when they say Sabah has some of the nicest views in the world. We visited an island for snorkeling and paddle boarding, and ended the day with the most beautiful sunset. Watching the sunset horizon over the sea was such an incredible experience. Since we were the only ones on the island, it honestly felt like we had our own private island. The scenery and sunset were absolutely magical.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Lauren Adams

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: Absolutely 5-star. A great morning out on the Mawali yacht for our family. Beautiful vessel, with lots of space to chill and relax on board. Lots of fun snorkelling, paddle boarding and jumping into the ocean from the boat. Joel and the crew were brilliant and great with our 7 year old son. Lunch was delicious! Booking process, payments and all communications so easy as well.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Carlo and Chrissie Ellis

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: The best morning possible out with Joel and Brendan from Mawali Sailing. From start to finish they made us feel like family, very competent boat handling, great history sharing and tailored the morning exactly to our needs. The lunch was fresh, simple and delicious and there was plenty to go around. We will definitely be back again! Great value for money.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Amadeo Navarro Zapata

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: The best morning in Kota Kinabalu. Carlos (Captain) and the rest of the crew took care of us very well. We enjoy very much the snorkelling and the time in one of the wonderful Mawali vessels. Carlos, thank you for your songs and conversation. Jerry did a good job as well. Highly recommend. Worth each ringgit we spent.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: geraldine ang

Review Date: 03 Dec 2025

Review Body: Booked a private morning trip for my family of 5. We were hosted by Joel, Brandon & Jacklyn. All were experts in their area of service! Great hospitality and experience for my family! Thanks guys!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Sharmeen

Review Date: 06 May 2026

Review Body: The sunset was beautiful. I also liked that everything was well-prepared for us, paddleboards, life jackets, and even snacks. The boat was clean too.

Review rating: 4

Itinerary Day 1

Itinerary Summary: Snorkelling and cruising around Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park on a yacht

Itinerary Description: 8:45AM Meet at the Sutera Harbour Marina & Country Club entrance where the crew will greet and guide you to the yacht 9:00AM Depart from the marina and begin cruising past the Triplet Islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park or Northern Bay of Gaya Island, depending on weather 10:15AM Begin snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, observing tropical fish, colourful corals, and sea turtles (if you're lucky!) 11:45AM Enjoy a hearty lunch onboard after snorkelling 12:15PM Start return journey to the jetty 1:15PM Arrive back at Sutera Harbour Marina, marking the end of the tour