Journey to Asia’s Finest DestinationS On A Cruise
Explore more from Singapore
By Evelyn Uslar-Pietri | Last Updated on September 4, 2024
Whether you’re dreaming of sampling mouth-watering local cuisines, hunting for hand-made goods in a bustling Malay market, snorkelling crystal clear coves in Vietnam or wandering Bali’s timeless temples, an Asia cruise delivers some of life’s best moments. Sail onboard your choice of fleet-favourite ships—Anthem of the Seas® and Ovation of the Seas®—floating resorts packed with delicious dining, showstopping entertainment, and epic activities for every family member. Dive into this guide to unlock bucket-list destinations and can’t-miss experiences that are just a click away!
Phuket and Penang: A Mix of Culture & Paradise
A cruise to Phuket and Penang brings you the best of Thailand and Malaysia, all wrapped up into one. Experience an amazing mix of cultures, incredible architectural diversity, and stunning natural beauty that draw visitors back time and time again.
Often called the Pearl of Thailand, Phuket is known for its countless pristine beaches, from the serene Layan Beach to the bustling Patong Beach. No matter where you choose to sunbathe, you’ll be in paradise every single time. Standing in stark contrast to the crystalline waters, the Big Buddha—a 45-metre white marble statue—is the perfect spot to kick off your temple-hopping tour across the island. And when you’ve worked up an appetite head over to the night markets, where a sea of stalls offers an array of irresistible hot bites.
A street-food mecca in its own right, the island-state of Penang in Malaysia also boasts such tasty treats as crispy oyster omelette and George Town’s signature dessert, icy coconut cendol. But these rich local flavours are only the start of Penang’s allure. The island is a melting pot of cultural influences across Asia with historical landmarks you won’t want to miss. Like the award-winning Blue Mansion, a gorgeous 19th-century Chinese residence. Or Penang Hill, one of highest vantage points of the entire island. Its panoramic views and local flora might very soon become the highlight of your Malaysia cruise from Singapore.
Thailand: A Treasure-Trove of Discovery
A land of warm welcomes, inspiring tropical beauty, and rich heritage, Thailand is a must-visit destination on a cruise from Singapore. Beach buffs and lovers of the great outdoors will find paradise in Phuket, relishing Freedom Beach’s baby powder sand, translucent waters and graceful palm trees. Or zero in on buzzy Kata Beach for adrenaline-amping watersports, followed by refuelling with fresh-caught seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants. Sunbathing to snorkelling, nothing says blissful like a Phuket beach.
From George Town’s chill, laid back vibe to Bangkok’s always-bustling pace, a cruise to Thailand is packed with surprising discoveries. Like beautiful Lumpini Park. Known as Bangkok’s Central Park, Lumpini is a serene green oasis surrounded by mega-skyscrapers. A walk through the tranquil park will lull you into a reflective mood, well suited for visiting some of Bangkok’s splendid temples—such as Wat Phra Kaew, The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, built within the Grand Palace. Or Wat Samphran, the magical dragon temple and one of Bangkok’s best-kept secrets.
After temple-hopping and local shopping—think the iconic Siam Paragon mall—head to Chinatown for great eats, sips and pulsing nightlife.
Vietnam: Unveil a Vast Heritage
Wonderful food. Natural wonders. Great shopping. A rich blend of French and Asian cultures. You’ll find them all and more in Vietnam. A vibrant, multifaceted destination, the Land of the Blue Dragon is a high point of your Asia cruise from Singapore.
Don’t miss the 150-year-old Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, a beloved family-favourite in Ho Chi Minh City. Commissioned by Admiral Pierre-Paul de La Grandière in 1864, it houses thousands of fauna and flora, from tigers and elephants to bonsai trees, orchid collections, and conservation areas.
If your idea of going deep involves water, set your sights on Nha Trang, a destination prized by scuba divers and beach lovers alike. Get close and personal with over 1500 marine species, including 350 different types of coral, in the nearby island of Hon Mun. Immersed in the aquamarine waters of its Marine Protected Area, you’ll feel like you’re in an aquarium teeming with colourful fish.
The sun-kissed life is alive and well in Nha Trang, where beaches are a huge draw. While Trans Phu Beach is a popular hub for watersports and people-watching, Long Beach, just outside of town, is equally scenic but more chill. Whatever your preference, Vietnam has something special for every mood and taste!
Indonesia: Explore the Unexpected
Consisting of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is not only the world’s largest archipelago, it has the distinction of being home to the world’s largest flower as well as the world’s largest lizard—the predatory Komodo Dragon!
But razor-toothed dragons aside, Indonesia is one of the most idyllic destinations on your Asia cruise. Think the fishing village of Benoa, Bali, where gold-sand beaches are a slice of pure heaven and fishermen sell their catch at dusk. From kayaking the mystical Mangrove Forest—a wonderland of trees that appear to be perched on stilts—to sailing to Turtle Island—a conservation area dedicated to the gentle reptiles—connections to nature come in many forms.
Fittingly, the Island of Gods offers spiritual shrines notable for their graceful majesty. The oldest, Caow Eng Bio Chinese Temple, believed to date back to the 1500s, is the backdrop for lion dances and other rousing festivities during special events like the Chinese New Year.
Your cruise from Singapore to Indonesia also features Lombok and its capital city, Mataram—an inspired mix of Indonesian charm and modern development. A haven for serious foodles, you’ll find mouthwatering dishes from the indigenous Sasak people—delightful treats like Ayam Taliwang, a succulent grilled chicken, as well as the addictive spicy water spinach.
Once fortified by good eats, make a beeline for Mayura Water Palace and gardens, an architectural gem originally built as a royal court. Still feeling full of pep and go? Heed the call of Mount Rinjani, the second highest volcano in Indonesia.
Hong Kong: Never Say So Long
From the iconic nightly Symphony of Lights—a dazzling music and light show that illuminates the towering skyline—to the mountains, forests and sea surrounding the metropolis, Hong Kong takes hold of your imagination and never lets go.
Start off your visit in SoHo, a super-trendy destination on your Asia cruise. A haven of hot restaurants, diverse shops—from trinkets to designer clothes—and thought-provoking street art, plan to spend several hours exploring and experiencing. You’ll find some of the best Cantonese cuisine in SoHo so be sure to pack your appetite—crispy roasted duck and tender pork-filled dumplings are mouthwatering favourites featured on many local menus.
A little antique shopping anyone? Immerse yourself in Cat Street and Hollywood street, top spots for finding hidden treasure. More shopping bounty awaits in Kowloon, with fashion chains lining Nathan Road and markets flourishing on side streets. Interestingly, you’ll find that certain streets specialise according to products sold. Head to Flower Market for a fragrant bouquet, Sneakers Market for well-priced shoes and Temple Street Night Market for souvenirs.
If all the shopping has made you thirsty, Kowloon’s rooftop bars are the place to be. Sip a refreshment and munch on Sichuan wontons, while taking in captivating vistas of the bay and Hong Kong island. It’s a great way to cap a perfect day on your cruise from Singapore.
