Extreme Asia & Africa

In Bangkok, the old meets the new: Skyscrapers contrast ornate Thai temples, high-end cocktail bars lie around the corner from bustling stalls of street-food vendors, and tuk tuk rickshaws pedal beside cars on the busy streets. Ships will dock in Laem Chabang about a 2 hour drive from Bangkok.

Top Things to Do in Bangkok:

• tour the Grand Palace
• shop at a floating market
• admire the Buddha at Wat Pho
• enjoy street food on Khao San Road
• view the city from Golden Mountain Temple

Laem Chabang is the main port for cruises to Bangkok, situated about 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of the city, typically a 1.5 to 2-hour drive depending on traffic. For those looking to explore nearby attractions, Pattaya is only 30 kilometers (18 miles) away, a quick 30-40 minute drive. Pattaya offers beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural sites like the Sanctuary of Truth.

Ko Samui is an idyllic, forested island with pristine beaches, but venture inland and see majestic cascading waterfalls or a plantation where monkeys harvest coconuts. Aside from its blissful beaches and lush interior, you'll also discover charming fishing villages and impressive golden Buddhist temples. Ships will anchor off Nathon and tenders guests ashore.

Top Things to Do in Ko Samui:

• visit the big Buddha known as Wat Phra Yai
• explore Angthong National Marine Park
• cool off at Nu Muang Waterfalls
• relax on Chaweng Beach

Singapore has two main cruise terminals. Small and medium cruise ships generally dock at the Harbourfront Center on the western end of the city across from Sentosa Island. This terminal is in one big mall, and sits beside an even bigger mall, Vivocity. There is a MRT stop conveniently located here.

A new cruise terminal, Marina Bay Cruise Centre opened May 2012 accommodating bigger cruise ships. Marina South Pier MRT station provides convenient access to the city. The station is 600m away from the cruise terminal along a sheltered walkway.

Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. The island's west coast is lined with a series of beaches each offering unique experiences, from the bustling Patong Beach known for its lively bars and nightclubs to the more serene Kata and Karon Beaches. Old Phuket Town, with its colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, offers a glimpse into the island's history, providing a stark contrast to the modern tourist spots.

For those seeking a cultural experience, the Wat Chalong temple and the Big Buddha—a massive white marble statue—are essential visits, offering spiritual insights as well as panoramic views of the island. Phuket’s natural landscapes also include lush rainforests and world-class diving sites.

Cochin lies on the southwest coast of India, set against a backdrop of the Arabian Sea in Kerala.

This city has rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore Fort Kochi, renowned for its colonial architecture, and landmarks such as the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and the Mattancherry Palace.

Wander through Jew Town, which is known for its spice markets, or dive into the local cuisine by trying traditional Kerala dishes like appam with stew or Malabar biryani. Kathakali performances also provide a vivid insight into Kerala's artistic traditions.

Ships will dock on Willington Island at either Ernakulam Wharf or Samudrika Cruise Terminal, approximately 10km from the city centre.

Mangalore or Mangaluru is a coastal city on the Arabian Sea located in Southern India. Mangalore derives its name from a goddess. The city has a rich historical past, part of it even dating back to major epics that are the bedrock of the Hindu mythological pantheon. Mangalore has 11th century temples, scintillating beaches dotted with coconut palm trees, museums and lighthouses. Red-roofed houses against the lush greenery provide a much-needed escape from the ordinary.

The city's coastline features pristine beaches like Panambur and Tannirbhavi, ideal for leisurely walks and sunset views. Historical landmarks such as the Kadri Manjunath Temple, dating back to about 1068 A.D., and the imposing St. Aloysius Chapel, known for its stunning interior paintings, offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of local heritage.

Malé, the capital of the Maldives, is a densely populated island city known for its vibrant mosques and colorful buildings. Key attractions include the Islamic Centre, with its striking golden dome and the nearby Maldives National Museum, housed in a former sultan's palace and showcasing regional artifacts.

For those stepping off a cruise in the late morning, a walk around this compact city reveals local life and architectural gems within a short span. The bustling local fish market offers a unique slice of Maldivian culture, where the day’s fresh catch is an everyday spectacle. Nearby, the artificial beach provides a tranquil spot to relax and enjoy the ocean view.

Mahe, the largest island of the Seychelles, dazzles with its abundance of natural beauty, from lush mountains to pristine beaches. Victoria, its capital, is a melting pot of cultures, evident in its cuisine and architecture, with the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens and colorful Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market being must-visits.

For beach lovers, Beau Vallon and Anse Intendance offer golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and jet-skiing. The island's interior is a haven for hikers, with trails winding through Morne Seychellois National Park leading to panoramic views. Cultural enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Victoria, with landmarks such as the Clock Tower and vibrant markets offering a taste of local life and cuisine and Mahe's Botanical gardens showcase the island's flora, including rare orchids and giant tortoises.

La Digue, one of the most picturesque islands in the Seychelles, is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. The island’s most famous beach, Anse Source d'Argent, features striking granite boulders, powdery white sand, and turquoise waters, making it a popular spot for photography and relaxation.

Exploring La Digue by bicycle is a delightful experience, allowing visitors to discover charming villages, lush plantations, and the island's unique flora and fauna. The Veuve Nature Reserve is home to the rare Seychelles black paradise flycatcher, offering a glimpse of the island's rich biodiversity. With its pristine beauty and tranquil vibe, La Digue provides an idyllic escape in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

Zanzibar, Tanzania, is an enchanting island that captivates with its blend of cultural richness and scenic splendor. Known for its aromatic spice farms and the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors can wander through narrow, bustling streets to discover grand old Arabian homes, and lively bazaars. The island's coast is lined with white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, ideal for snorkeling or simply relaxing under the sun.

Don't miss a visit to the Forodhani Gardens in the evening where you can savor local delicacies such as grilled seafood and Zanzibari pizzas among the locals. This vibrant night market provides a delicious introduction to the tastes of the island, making for a perfect late start to the day's adventures.

Nosy Be, often heralded as Madagascar's premier beach destination, is an island northwest of the mainland lush with aromatic ylang-ylang trees and rare wildlife. Visitors can discover the island's rich biodiversity at Lokobe Reserve, a sanctuary for endemic species like the black lemur. The vibrant Hell-Ville market offers a colorful glimpse into local life, showcasing spices, handmade crafts, and seafood.

Water enthusiasts will relish exploring the clear turquoise waters of Nosy Be, ideal for snorkeling and diving to view spectacular coral reefs. For a unique experience, take a short boat trip to the surrounding smaller islands, each offering serene beaches and the chance to spot sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Mayotte, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, captivates visitors with its stunning lagoons and rich marine life. The coral reefs are perfect for snorkelling and diving, offering vibrant underwater scenes with colourful fish and sea turtles. A boat trip to the island of Petite-Terre provides a chance to explore the lush vegetation and observe the endemic Makis, a type of lemur unique to this region.

On Grande-Terre, the island's main island, you can visit Mount Choungui for a challenging hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the archipelago. The bustling market in Mamoudzou, the capital, is a vibrant spot to experience local culture and cuisine. Mayotte’s blend of natural beauty and cultural richness makes it a captivating destination.

Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, stands out with its alluring mix of African, Portuguese, and Mediterranean influences, evident in its architecture and diverse culinary scene. The city is distinguished by its acacia-lined avenues and historical buildings such as the Maputo Railway Station, designed by Gustave Eiffel, which highlights the city's colonial past. The bustling Mercado Central offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, seafood, and spices, inviting a taste of local flavours.

Along the coastline, Maputo's broad avenues transform into picturesque seaside promenades, ideal for leisurely walks overlooking the Indian Ocean. The recently renovated Maputo Waterfront area enhances the city's charm, providing spaces for relaxation and entertainment against the backdrop of maritime activity.

Richards Bay, situated on the northeastern coast of South Africa in KwaZulu-Natal, is renowned for its vast waterfront and deep-water port, one of the country’s largest. This bustling hub is not only vital for coal exports but also serves as a gateway to the region's rich natural landscapes and wildlife reserves. The nearby uMkhuze Game Reserve is part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering sightings of rhinos, elephants, and a variety of bird species.

For those who enjoy the sea, Alkantstrand Beach provides golden sands and warm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The city’s waterfront areas are perfect for leisurely strolls, revealing views of the large industrial ships and tranquil sea, illustrating the unique blend of industry and nature.

Mossel Bay, positioned along South Africa’s Garden Route, is a coastal town with a deep historical significance, often cited as the first place Europeans set foot on South African soil. The Dias Museum Complex commemorates this moment with the Maritime Museum and the iconic Post Office Tree, a centuries-old milkwood tree used by Portuguese navigators as a mail collection point.

The natural beauty of Mossel Bay is striking, with the Indian Ocean providing a stunning backdrop for a variety of water-based activities. Its mild climate makes it a year-round destination for beachgoers and those interested in shark-cage diving and whale watching. The blend of history and natural beauty ensures that Mossel Bay offers a rich, immersive experience for all who visit.

With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.

Top Things to Do in Cape Town:

• Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
• Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
• Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
• Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries

With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.

Top Things to Do in Cape Town:

• Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
• Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
• Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
• Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries