Airplanes are overrated – sail into one of Malaysia’s river and ocean-based ports and get direct access to adventure.
1.1. Sea Cruise
1.1.1. Port Klang, Selangor
The Boustead Cruise Centre (BCC), a dedicated cruise terminal in Port Klang, is the choice port of call in Malaysia for the world’s cruise lines. Aida Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Lines, Costa Cruises and Star Cruises, among others, make regular stops. Ocean liners like the Voyager of the Seas, Diamond Princess, Queen Mary 2 and the Queen Elizabeth include BCC in their World Cruise itineraries.
1.1.2. Penang Port, Penang
A growing number of tourists now come to Penang by sea, thanks to the new Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal. With a T-shaped berth 400 metres long and 12 metres deep, the Terminal can easily accommodate the world’s largest cruise vessels. Upon disembarkation, cruise guests get direct access to a UNESCO World Heritage site – a perk that few cruise terminals can claim!
1.1.3. Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Strategically located on Borneo’s northwest coast along the South China Sea, Kota Kinabalu Port serves as a gateway to Sabah’s capital and main business centre. Along with direct access to the city, disembarking passengers also enjoy the close proximity of several renowned national parks and reserves; the islands of Sapi, Mamutik, Manukan, Sulug and Gaya; and Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia.
1.2. River-based
Malaysia’s rivers play a major role in the country’s history, culture and commerce; take a river cruise to get one with the nation’s flow.
1.2.1. Melaka River Cruise, Melaka
It’s a cruise deep into Melaka history: departing from the Muara Jetty right next to the Quayside Heritage Centre to cut right across the city of Melaka, Melaka River Cruise glides past historical buildings, old warehouses, churches, villages and mangrove stands. Accompanying live commentary explains the history of the river and surrounding structures. Tel: +606 281 4322, www.melakarivercruise.com
1.2.2. River Cruise in Kuala Selangor, Selangor
Don’t leave Selangor without taking a boat tour to visit the firefly colonies at Kampung Kuantan and Kampung Bukit Belimbing, about 6km and 10km from Kuala Selangor town respectively. The fireflies congregrate in large numbers around the berembang trees that grow along the riverbank. For overnight stays, accommodation is available in Kampung Bukit Belimbing. www.fireflypark.com
1.2.3. Rejang River Cruise, Sarawak
The Rajang River is the longest river in Malaysia. From the town of Sibu at the river’s delta, travelers can board local speedboats that steam up and downriver to connect people and cargo with coastal towns and districts along the river. Longhouse villages inhabited by Iban people can be found upriver, offering a warm welcome to visitors. sarawaktourism.com
