How to Get to Semporna: Flights, Boats and Transfers Explained
Planning a trip to Semporna and not quite sure how to get there? You’re not alone. This little town on the east coast of Sabah might be the gateway to stunning islands like Mabul, Kapalai and Bohey Dulang, but getting there can feel a bit tricky at first glance.
The good news? It’s totally doable once you know your options. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything, from booking your flight to catching the boat to your island stay. Think of this as your all-in-one transport guide to Semporna.
So, Where Exactly Is Semporna?
Semporna is a coastal town in the Tawau Division of Sabah, on the eastern side of Malaysian Borneo. It’s the main jump-off point for travellers heading to the beautiful islands scattered across the Celebes Sea.
The closest airport is Tawau Airport (TWU), which is about a 90-minute drive from Semporna town.
The Easiest Way: Fly to Tawau Airport (TWU)
This is by far the simplest and most direct way to reach Semporna.
Domestic Flights to Tawau
There are daily flights into Tawau from:
- Kuala Lumpur (KUL) – flight duration is around 2 hours and 45 minutes
- Kota Kinabalu (BKI) – about 1 hour
🟢 Other cities like Johor Bahru, Sandakan and Penang also have flights to Tawau, usually with one stopover (most often in Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur). These can work, but do check the total travel time before booking.
Airlines that service this route include AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and Batik Air.
The Scenic Option: Fly to Kota Kinabalu and Travel Overland
If you have more time and want to explore Sabah along the way, you can fly into Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) and continue by land to Semporna.
Travel Time and Stop Suggestions
- Drive from KK to Semporna takes about 8 to 9 hours
- Consider stopping at places like Kinabalu Park, Kundasang, or Sandakan
- You can rent a car or take an intercity bus if you’re up for the adventure
This route is better suited for road trippers or travellers combining Semporna with other destinations in Sabah.
From Tawau Airport to Semporna Town
After landing in Tawau, the next leg of your journey is the land transfer to Semporna.
Option 1: Private Van or Taxi
- Best choice for families or small groups
- Takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Costs range between RM100 and RM120 per car
- Can be arranged in advance through your hotel or local operator
Option 2: Shared Van
- Budget-friendly and good for solo travellers
- Around RM30 to RM50 per person
- Travel time is also about 1 hour and 30 minutes
- These vans usually wait until all seats are filled before departing
You can easily get a shared van on arrival. Just walk out of the airport gate and look for the green bus drivers waiting outside. There are usually plenty of them around during the daytime. They’ll approach you and offer transport to Semporna on a sharing basis, which is a convenient and budget-friendly option. These shared vans typically operate only during daylight hours, so if you’re arriving late in the evening, it’s best to arrange private transport.
Option 3: Self-Drive Rental
- Available at Tawau Airport through local car rental providers
- Perfect if you’re planning to visit other places before or after Semporna
- Just note that parking in Semporna town is limited and traffic can get busy
Welcome to Semporna Town!
Once you arrive in Semporna, you’ll likely be dropped off near the Semporna Public Jetty, the main hub for boats to the islands.
There are many small inns and guesthouses around the jetty area, making it easy to spend a night in town before catching a boat the next morning.
Getting to the Islands from Semporna
Most travellers come to Semporna for the islands. Whether you’re heading to Mabul, Kapalai, or the cluster of islands like Bohey Dulang and Pom Pom. Just note that there are no public ferries/boats, so all island transfers are managed by resorts or licensed tour operators.
There are three popular island routes:
📍 Route A (Green Arrow): Bohey Dulang, Sibuan, Mantabuan
This route is part of a popular day trip offered by tour operators, usually based in Semporna.
- Departure time: 8:30 AM
- Return to Semporna: Around 4:00 PM
- Highlights: Hiking Bohey Dulang, snorkelling in Sibuan, crystal clear lagoons
- Operated as: Island hopping trip (Route A only per day)
📍 Route C (Blue Arrow): Mataking, Timba-Timba, Pandanan, Pom-Pom
Similar to Route A, this one is also a day tour, typically done from Semporna.
- Departure time: 8:30 AM
- Return to Semporna: Around 4:00 PM
- Highlights: Clear sandbanks, luxury island vibes, shallow reef snorkelling
- Operated as: Island hopping trip (Route C only per day)
📍 Route B (Black Arrow): Mabul and Kapalai
If you’re heading to stay overnight on the islands, Route B is your route.
- Mabul: Approx. 45 minutes by boat
- Kapalai: Approx. 50 minutes
- Operated by: Resorts and package tour operators
- Boats usually depart from Semporna at 8:30 AM (fix schedule)
If you’re staying on either of these islands, the transfer is typically arranged for you. Always check with your host for boat schedules and availability.
Important Note About Boat Departures to Mabul & Kapalai Island
If you’re staying at a property on Mabul/Kapalai Island, there is typically one fixed daily shared boat that departs from Semporna at 8:30 AM, priced at RM85 per person, one way.
If you arrive in Semporna after 8:30 AM, you won’t be able to catch that shared boat, and there’s no guarantee that another shared boat will be available the same day. The next possible option depends on availability and can usually only be confirmed on the morning of travel.
To avoid stress or disappointment, it’s best to contact your accommodation at least one day in advance to confirm boat arrangements.
If no shared boat is available, you can still reach the island by chartering a private boat, but this can cost RM500 or more per boat, one way. Also note that no boats operate at night for safety reasons.
So, if you’re landing in Tawau late in the afternoon or evening, we recommend travelling to Semporna that same evening and staying overnight there, so you’re ready for the 8:30 AM boat departure the next day
Quick Travel Tips Before You Go
- Make sure to plan your flights, transfers and accommodation in advance, especially during Malaysian school holidays (Malaysia School Holiday 2025/26) when things get fully booked quickly.
- It’s best to check with your tour operator before booking your flight so they can advise you on the best timing to match boat transfers and avoid any scheduling issues.
- Try to travel light and pack your belongings in a waterproof bag or cover, as boat rides can sometimes get splashy.
- If you are sensitive to motion, bring some motion sickness tablets before boarding the boat.
- Avoid tight schedules by giving yourself enough buffer time between your flight, van transfer and boat ride. Delays do happen, and it’s better to have some flexibility.
- Always carry some cash with you, as many van drivers, local eateries and shops in Semporna or on the islands may not accept card payments.
- If you are arriving late in Tawau, it is better to stay overnight in Semporna rather than trying to rush to the island.
- Confirm your boat transfer with your operator at least a day in advance. Most shared boats only run once in the morning, and private charters can be costly or unavailable at short notice.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Now that you know how to get to Semporna, you’re all set to start planning your adventure. Whether you’re heading for snorkelling, scuba diving or just to unwind by the sea, we’ve got travel packages to help you get there with ease. Check out our Mabul & Kapalai travel packages here
This post was written by Irfan, from The Borneo Nomads team
We share stories from our own experiences and invite local voices to keep things real, helpful, and grounded in the places we know best.
