Indian Ocean Treasures

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.

Malacca is steeped in history and is celebrated for its multicultural heritage and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic city was a prominent trading port in the 15th century, attracting traders from around the world, which has influenced its unique architectural and cultural tapestry. Landmarks like the red-stucco Dutch Stadthuys and the ancient Porta de Santiago fort testify to its colonial past under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule.

Visitors can explore the vibrant Jonker Street, famous for its weekend night markets that offer an array of antiques, crafts, and street food that reflect the city's Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European influences. The tranquil Malacca River that winds through the city provides a scenic route for river cruises, offering a peaceful perspective on this historic city.

Melaka is steeped in history and is celebrated for its multicultural heritage and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic city was a prominent trading port in the 15th century, attracting traders from around the world, which has influenced its unique architectural and cultural tapestry. Landmarks like the red-stucco Dutch Stadthuys and the ancient Porta de Santiago fort testify to its colonial past under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule.

Visitors can explore the vibrant Jonker Street, famous for its weekend night markets that offer an array of antiques, crafts, and street food that reflect the city's Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European influences. The tranquil Melaka River that winds through the city provides a scenic route for river cruises, offering a peaceful perspective on this historic city.

Malaysia’s dynamic capital is a melting pot of skyscrapers, Islamic architecture and British Colonial buildings offering a futuristic cityscape with an enduring nod to yesteryear. Home to some of Asia’s most opulent shopping malls, Kuala Lumpur’s skyline is dominated by the famous Petronas and Menara Kuala Lumpur Towers. Ships will dock in Port Klang.

Top Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur:

• explore the Batu Caves
• tour the Royal Selangor Factory
• shop at the Central Market
• visit the Petronas Towers for city views

Port Klang, Malaysia's busiest port, serves as a gateway to the vibrant capital city of Kuala Lumpur. Located on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, it plays a crucial role in the country’s trade and logistics. Despite its industrial importance, the area around Port Klang offers interesting attractions and activities for visitors.

Nearby, Pulau Ketam, also known as Crab Island, is a quaint fishing village accessible by ferry. The island features traditional stilt houses, fresh seafood, and a laid-back atmosphere. Additionally, Port Klang is close to Klang town centre, where visitors can explore historical sites such as the Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery and the bustling Little India district. With its mix of industrial significance and local charm, Port Klang provides a unique insight into Malaysia’s coastal life.

Cruise into the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal in Penang's bustling port. With easy access to the heart of George Town, it's a perfect starting point for exploring Penang. Wander through the UNESCO-listed streets of George Town, with over 1,700 historic buildings. See the iconic Street Art scattered across the city, and search for the perfect souvenir at one of many traditional bazaars and street markets.

Try local delicacies such as Penang Laksa and Char Kway Teow at hawker stalls, or head out to Penang's Upper Hill Station to ride the funicular railway toward spectacular views of the region. Further afield, explore the lush Penang National Park, or get adventurous with canopy walks and jungle trekking.

Langkawi is known for its lush landscapes and pristine beaches, earning it the title of the first UNESCO Geopark in Southeast Asia.

Explore the mangrove forests, limestone cliffs, and hidden caves of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park, home to diverse wildlife like eagles, macaques, and even playful dolphins.

Langkawi is also home to one of the world's longest free-span and curved bridges, the SkyBridge. Suspended 100 meters above the ground, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding rainforest and Andaman Sea.

Ships will dock at Porto Malai, also known as the Star Cruise Jetty. Located near Kuah town, it serves as the gateway to the tropical paradise of Langkawi.

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.

Hambantota, located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, has rapidly transformed into a significant urban and maritime hub, with a deep-water port and thriving International Airport. Hambantota also offers visitors a range of wildlife and natural attractions, with the nearby Yala National Park being one of the best places in Asia to see a broad array of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species. The Bundala National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is also ideal for bird watching, with hundreds of species making it their home.

Additionally, the Hambantota salt pans and hot springs offer unique local experiences. These attractions, combined with the welcoming nature of its people, make Hambantota a compelling port of call in Sri Lankan.

Visitors to Sri Lanka have a wealth of options. From relaxing on some of the world's finest beaches, exploring temples, halls and palaces of the last Sinhalese kingdom at Kandy, or taking a guided tour of an elephant orphanage. Colombo also offers an array of charms, from the Royal Botanic Gardens, once a royal pleasure garden, to the Pettah Bazaar, where vendors hawk everything under the sun.

Colombo and Sri Lanka were shaped by Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim and European influences. Colombo also serves as a gateway for overland adventures to India.

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.

The west Indian state of Goa sits on a stunning coastline stretching along the Arabian Sea and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

The unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals, and the state is renowned for its laid-back lifestyle, vibrant nightlife, and delectable seafood.

Explore the historic forts of Aguada and Chapora that offer panoramic views of the sea, or visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bom Jesus Basilica, which holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier.

For a taste of Goa's natural beauty, the Dudhsagar Falls and the spice plantations are a must-visit.

Mormugao Port, situated on India's western coast, is a key access point to the enchanting region of Goa. This port lies approximately 4 km (about 2.5 miles) from the city of Vasco da Gama, just a short drive of 10 to 15-minutes.

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.

Praslin, the second-largest island in the Seychelles, is famed for its stunning beaches and lush, tropical landscapes. Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette are often cited among the world's most beautiful beaches, with their powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters. The island’s interior is home to Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can find the rare coco de mer palm and a variety of endemic wildlife.

Explore the island's laid-back charm by visiting local markets and enjoying fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants. Praslin also offers excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. This idyllic island promises a serene and captivating experience

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.

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.

British colonial architecture prevails in Durban, yet natural beauty is what characterises this charming city on the Indian Ocean. Durban delights the traveller with its colourful mosaic of ethnic neighbourhoods and memorable excursions to game reserves and the traditional lifestyle of the Zulu people. Ships will dock at the N-Shed Passenger Terminal.

Top Things to Do in Durban:

• spot animals at the Tala Game Reserve
• shop at the Victoria Street Market
• relax at the beaches of the Golden Mile
• visit the PheZulu Safari Park

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