We were planning to stay on an island near world famous dive site Sipadan. But after deciding that a couple of snorkeling trips would be better value, I cancelled the booking. We are not part of the diving scene, and according to a lot of reviews that is the main reason to come to Semporna which is the hop off spot for some very expensive resorts.

We headed out to visit three islands and snorkel different reefs. The day was overcast, and I was surprised how clearly the marine life could be seen. There were plenty of fish and different corals to admire, and as always I love the weightlessness of being in the sea. I wouldn’t say it was spectacular and one day was enough.

According to a Swede we met, Sipadan is spectacular, but it’s mostly for divers and it’s good to know the daily numbers are limited.

Semporna has a bustling harbour, so many small boats jostling for space. We walked out to the end pier, past all the fast food chains and numerous people selling small buckets of seafood. The waterfront is chaotic, and many plastic bottles float about, there were a couple of workers trying to retrieve them with their net. A losing battle I think!

The markets were in full swing this morning, and we carefully (so as not to slip) made our way past any number of interesting products. We had been looking for where to get a mini bus to our next destination, helpful locals kept pointing in the general direction, we did eventually come across the right car park!