Formerly known to the locals as Kota Kinabalu Ferry Terminal, Jesselton Point is located just in the center of Kota Kinabalu (KK). Jesselton was the former name of Kota Kinabalu.
Goods and products grown or made along the west coast were mainly transported by trains to the quay for export. The import was transported to the rest of the west coast and inland via the rail network. This yard was in use until the late 1970s. Lots of old poster sized photos of Jesselton Town can be seen at Jesselton Point, when you enter through the gate (left of photo). These photos provide a brief account of Jesselton's history.
Jesselton Point is now the departure point for ferries to the islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik and Sulug Islands) and other islands such as Pulau Tiga and Pulau Mantanani. Jesselton Point is also the departure point by boat to Muara (Brunei) and Labuan. The latter journeys take approximately 1.5 hours.Jesselton Point is now the departure point for ferries to the islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik and Sulug Islands) and other islands such as Pulau Tiga and Pulau Mantanani. Jesselton Point is also the departure point by boat to Muara (Brunei) and Labuan. The latter journeys take approximately 1.5 hours.
The Ferries to the nearby islands
The best way to get to Jesselton Point is by local public transport. From the City Bus Terminal, take bus line 1, route 1A. The said bus will drive along the KK Waterfront all the way to Jesselton Point. It takes about 10 minutes to reach the ferry terminal. For those coming from Kota Kinabalu International Airport, the drive from the airport to Jesselton Point will take approximately 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
At the main entrance there is a beautiful arch that welcomes you. Several dated photos of the city's aerial view hang on the walls, some of them taken in the early 20th century. There are also two English-inspired telephone booths with their ubiquitous bright red color.
The boat reception counters are informative and arrange the boat to the nearby islands. Waiting areas in front of the counters in the main building are equipped with comfortable seats and cooling air conditioning.
Just wait for your spot at the counter
After payment of your boat ticket, you will receive this voucher as a 'boarding pass' for the boat. Behind this receipt is printed as follows:
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Dear Passenger,
The journey to the island takes only 20 minutes and depends on the weather. Please get ready to be "wet" and without complaining.
Please check that nothing is left on the boat before you go. We are sorry to inform you that we are not responsible for any loss or damage to your goods.
Make sure to get to the dock on time or the boat will leave you in 15 minutes. Boat fee is non-refundable.
Thank you for your cooperation and your support.
Please come again!
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There are plenty of eateries at Jesselton Point where you can drink or eat something. You can enjoy a fantastic night out here at the harbor. There is also a railway carriage, which has been taken over from the existing North Borneo railway service and now serves as a drinking establishment called JP Train Station.
There are many other smaller cafes with more acceptable prices apart from souvenir shops for visitors who are leaving the city. There is a nice looking Italian restaurant called Benito Bistro, equipped with glass walls overlooking the harbor and the ocean.
In the evening, have a lovely dinner at Jesselton Point
