Discovering Freediving in Perhentian Islands: Your Ultimate Guide

Breathe in. You’re almost here.

The Perhentian Islands aren’t just a beach destination. They’re a slow, salty exhale from city noise. Here, jungle meets reef, and time flows like a gentle tide.

At Freedive AndRasa, we teach, dive, and reset. If you’re planning your journey here, we’ve created this local-backed, step-by-step guide to help you arrive smoothly, dry(ish), and maybe already feeling a bit freer.

🛣 Step 1: Getting to Kuala Besut Jetty

All boats to the Perhentian Islands leave from Kuala Besut Jetty, a small port town on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia.

🚍 From Kuala Lumpur (KL)

• By Bus: Overnight buses from TBS terminal to Kuala Besut Jetty take about 7-9 hours. Book online via Easybook or Redbus. Tickets are around RM 40-60.

• By Flight: Fly from KLIA/KLIA2 to Kota Bharu (KBR) or Kuala Terengganu (TGG). Both are 1-hour flights.

  
  

🚕 From Kota Bharu (KBR)

• Take a Grab or pre-arranged taxi from the airport to the jetty (1.5 hours).

  Fare: Around RM 60-90.

  This is the fastest and most common route for most tourists.

• Contact Khayalan Perhentian for the airport shuttle bus service.

• Most boat service operators can also arrange airport shuttle service.

  
  

💡 TIP: Aim to reach the jetty before 4 PM — most boats stop operating after that, unless it is high season.

🚤 Step 2: Boat to the Islands

Once you arrive at Kuala Besut Jetty, you’ll find many boat counters offering transfers to Perhentian Kecil (Small) and Perhentian Besar (Big).

• Return boat fare: RM 70

• Boat schedule: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Travel time: 30–45 minutes

  
  

There are no night boats, and bad weather might delay service. So, plan your arrival time accordingly.

• Ask your hotel for its exact location. Each beach on the island is quite isolated from the others. Walking from one to another isn't always easy (or dry).

  
  

At AndRasa, we’re based on Perhentian Kecil, on the Long Beach, where the jungle trail ends, and the underwater journey begins.

🧘‍♂️ No cars. No chaos. Just ocean.

Perhentian Sunrise

🎒 What To Pack (And What NOT To)

Must-Bring Items

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Mosquito repellent & coils

• Quick-dry clothes

• Cash (many places don’t accept cards)

• Locals can pay by QR Code

• A curious mind and open heart

  
  

Leave Behind

• High heels

• Stress

• Your corporate self 😌

• Backpack instead of a suitcase!

  
  

🌞 March to October: Diving season

🌧 November to February: Monsoon season (islands mostly closed)

📸 Bonus: Come during May–September for the best visibility underwater.

As March and April are usually still for the sea-sick seekers (just kidding!).

🐬 Join Freedive AndRasa with Intention

We’re not just teaching you to hold your breath. We’re guiding you to return to your body, calm your mind, and meet yourself underwater.

Whether you’re:

• A beginner struggling with equalization or without any experience,

• A freediver who is seeking to dive,

• Someone seeking a break from burnout,

• Or a curious traveler wanting to explore inner stillness…

  
  

Course Options

• 🧭 1-Week Course

• 🐟 3-Day Classical Freediving Booster

• 🎯 1-Day Freediving Experience

• 🙊 Online Frenzel Coaching (Start before your trip!)

  
  

All our courses include equipment, safe coaching, and that extra dash of soul you didn’t know you needed.

👉 Check Courses & Book Your Spot

👉 Chat With Us on WhatsApp

Freedive AndRasa's happy student

Embrace the Ocean's Calm

The ocean is calling! It’s time to embrace the calm and connect with nature. Freediving isn’t just about the dive; it’s about the journey within.

Imagine gliding through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by vibrant marine life. Each breath you take brings you closer to serenity.

So, are you ready to dive into this adventure? Let’s make waves together!

Welcome to Perhentian.

Welcome to AndRasa (to feel).