Bohey Dulang Island, Borneo (East Malaysia)
Bohey Dulang Island: Exploring the Cultural Expedition
Bohey Dulang Island, Sabah, formed by the remnants of an ancient volcano, this mountainous landmass is the second-largest island in Tun Sakaran Marine Park archipelago. With a unique lagoon-like formation created by the flooding of seawater, the sea around Bohey Dulang Island is inhabited by lots of colorful coral reefs, providing divers and snorkelers a picturesque view.
Beyond the turquoise waters and coral reefs, Bohey Dulang Island invites you on a cultural expedition. Join us as we explore the travel intricacies and immersive activities that make this Sabah gem a feast for the senses.
Navigating to Bohey Dulang Island
Bohey Dulang Island is accessible via Tawau, a major city in Sabah. You can fly to Tawau Airport (TWU) from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) or Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) or other major Malaysian airports that offer route to Tawau Airport. Major airlines such as Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Malindo Air operate regular flights to Tawau, making it convenient for travelers from around the world to reach this paradise.
From Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)
Flight journey: 3 hours
Airlines: Airasia & Malaysia Airlines.
From Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)
Flight journey: 1 hour
Transfer to Bohey Dulang Island
Upon reaching Tawau Airport, we will arrange your private transfer direct to Semporna Town. The journey from Tawau to Semporna takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by road. Leave the worries behind as we will transport you smoothly to your accommodation.
Bohey Dulang Island Accommodation
Bohey Dulang is part of the Tun Sakaran Marine Park (TSMP), and overnight stays are typically not permitted on the island to preserve its natural environment. Visitors usually stay in accommodations in nearby areas, such as Semporna, Pom Pom Island, Mataking Island or other islands in the region. Here some popular island accommodation that you may consider Pom Pom Island Resort, The Reef Mataking Resort, Crystal Resort, or you may choose Semporna Town that offers a range of accommodations. All these accommodations offered you a daily day trip island hopping to Bohey Dulang Island and others TSMP island.
Season
The door opens all year round for you to reach Semporna, no matter what season, Bohey Dulang Island is always ready for you. The best time to visit largely depends on your preferences, either Dry Season (March to October) or Raining Season (November to February).
Tun Sakaran Marine Park Conservation Fee
Tun Sakaran Marine Park consists of 8 islands and 2 reefs, also known as Semporna Islands Park. The islands are Bohey Dulang Island, Sibuan Island, Mantabuan Island, Bodgaya Island, Bum Bum Island, Sebangkat Island, Selakan Island & Tetagan Island. The 2 reefs are Kapikan Reef & Church Reef, the "must visit" dive site for divers. It is the largest protected concentration of coral reefs in Malaysia covering 350 square kilometers of sea and coral reefs and 10 square kilometres of land.
Tun Sakaran Marine Park Conservation Fee
Malaysian
Adult: MYR65.00
Child (age 11 and below): MYR5.00
Non-Malaysian
Adult: MYR115.00
Child (age 11 and below): MYR25.00
Jetty Fee collects by Sabah State Government
Jetty to be paid either upon arrival or collect before the trip at Semporna Jetty.
Malaysian MYR 2.00
Non-Malaysian MYR 10.00
Bohey Dulang Island: 10 Best Things MUST do!
Certainly! Here are the "10 Best Things to Do in Bohey Dulang Island."
- Hike to the Summit: Embark on a trek to the island's summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon and surrounding islands.
2.Snorkel in Coral Gardens: Dive into the vibrant underwater world surrounding Bohey Dulang. Explore coral gardens teeming with colorful marine life, including tropical fish and graceful sea turtles.
3.Dive into Adventure: For certified divers, the island offers fantastic diving sites. Explore underwater caves, walls, and encounter diverse marine species in the crystal-clear waters.
4.Kayak Through Tranquil Waters: Rent a kayak and paddle through the calm and transparent waters surrounding the island, providing a unique perspective of Bohey Dulang's beauty.
5.Island Hopping: Extend your adventure by hopping to neighboring islands like Sibuan and Mantabuan, each offering unique landscapes and marine ecosystems.
6.Photography Expedition: Capture stunning landscapes, vibrant coral formations, and diverse flora and fauna. Bohey Dulang is a photographer's paradise.
7.Experience Local Culture in Semporna: Take a boat ride to Semporna and experience the local culture. Visit markets, try authentic Malaysian cuisine, and interact with the friendly locals.
8.Giant Clam and Marine Invertebrate Hatchery: While you are at the island, you should visit the Giant Clam and Marine Invertebrate Hatchery to learn more about giant clams, especially some rare
species, and see a few endemic species of giant clams at the nursery’s tank area. Besides that, the hatchery also conducts seaweed farming.
9.Bird Watching: The island is home to a variety of bird species. Bring your binoculars and enjoy bird watching amidst the lush greenery.
10.Sunset Spectacle: End your day with a mesmerizing sunset view from the island's summit. The changing colors of the sky reflecting on the water create a magical and unforgettable scene.
These activities offer a diverse and enriching experience, making Bohey Dulang Island a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Bohey Dulang Island: Do’s & Don’ts
Do Respect the Environment: Preserve the island's natural beauty by avoiding littering and respecting local wildlife. Follow designated paths during hikes and snorkeling to minimize environmental impact.
Do Follow Local Regulations: Adhere to any rules and guidelines set by local authorities or tour operators. This includes respecting marine conservation areas and restricted zones.
Do Stay Hydrated: Especially during hikes and outdoor activities, ensure you have an adequate supply of water to stay hydrated in the tropical climate.
Do Bring Snorkeling Gear and Wear Suitable Attire (for snorkeling/hiking): If you have your own snorkeling gear, bring it along for a more personalized and comfortable experience. Otherwise, rental options are usually available. Suitable attires are recommended such as bathing suit, quick dry T-shirt, short pants, sun hat/cap, sunglasses, hiking shoes, insect repellent (for hiking), sunscreen lotion and extra clothing (if necessary).
Do Engage with Local Culture: If visiting nearby towns like Semporna, take the opportunity to engage with the local culture. Try local cuisine, interact with residents, and learn about the region's traditions.
Do Capture Memories Responsibly: Capture the beauty of Bohey Dulang through photography but do so responsibly. Avoid disturbing wildlife for the sake of a photograph.
Do Plan Ahead: Plan your itinerary and activities in advance to make the most of your time on the island. This includes considering the best times for hiking, snorkeling, and other activities.
Do Stay Informed: Stay informed about weather conditions, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities. Be prepared for changes in weather and tides.
Don't Litter: Respect the pristine environment by disposing of your waste properly. Pack out what you pack in and avoid leaving any trace of your visit.
Don't Disturb Wildlife: Avoid touching or disturbing wildlife, whether on land or underwater. Maintain a safe distance and observe animals without interfering with their natural behaviors.
Don't Stray from Designated Paths: Stick to designated trails and paths during hikes to minimize the impact on the island's delicate ecosystems.
Don't Feed Marine Life: Refrain from feeding fish or other marine creatures during snorkeling or diving activities. Feeding can disrupt their natural behavior and diet.
Don't Damage Coral Reefs: Be cautious while snorkeling or diving to avoid contact with coral reefs. Even a slight touch can cause irreversible damage to these fragile ecosystems.
Don't Disregard Safety Guidelines: Follow safety guidelines provided by tour operators or local authorities. This includes using proper safety equipment during water activities.
Don't Overload Boats: If participating in island-hopping tours, follow capacity guidelines for boats to ensure safety and minimize environmental impact.
Don't Play Loud Music: Maintain a peaceful atmosphere on the island by refraining from playing loud music. Respect the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
Don't Remove Marine Life: Resist the temptation to collect shells, coral, or any marine life as souvenirs. Leave everything as you find it to preserve the ecosystem.
Don't Disregard Local Customs: Respect the cultural norms and customs of the local communities, especially when visiting nearby towns. Dress modestly and be mindful of local traditions.
Bohey Dulang Island is waiting!
Bohey Dulang beckons, promising an unparalleled escape into nature's embrace. This tropical escape promises not only a visual feast but also an immersion into the rich culture and warm hospitality of Malaysia. Use this guide to plan your journey and discover the hidden treasures of this Malaysian paradise.
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