Cruise the Far East - from Singapore to Malaysia and Thailand

Singapore is an excellent starting point for a cruise to the highlights of Malaysia and Thailand. The area has a rich cultural heritage from Malay, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and British influences.

From Singapore cruise the eastern side of the Malay peninsula to Kuantan, a Malaysian holiday resort noted for handicrafts. Further north the Thai island of Ko Samui is famous for its white beaches and coconut trees. At the top of the peninsula is Thai capital Bangkok. Its magnificent sights include the gold statue of the Buddha at Wat Trimitr Temple, the Royal Chapel of the Emerald Buddha, and the former Siamese royal Grand Palace.

Phuket, on the north west of the Malay peninsula is Thailand’s premier resort island. Its beaches and resorts such as Patong are major attractions, but outside the city the hills can give stunning views over the blue Andaman sea.

Also on the west of the Malay peninsula is Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital, reached from Port Klang 40km away. Its historic centre and squares are dominated by the city's Petronas Towers, the world’s tallest twin building. North of the city are the Batu Caves, dominated by a huge statue of Hindu deity Murugan.

Across the Straits of Malacca from mainland Malaysia is Langkawi Island, awarded World Geopark status by UNESCO. Take a cable car for superb views over the island.

Some cruises may also visit Penang and Malacca, both with a strong British heritage. Penang was under British control from 1786 until Malaysian independence in 1957. Its capital George Town is now a World Heritage Site for its unique architectural and cultural townscape. In Malacca the city is full of narrow streets and traces of colonial rule by the British, Portuguese and Dutch.

Cruising east across the South China Sea from Singapore is the island of Borneo. Kota Kinabalu, capital of the Malaysian northern half of Borneo, is a seaside town in the shadow of Mount Kinabulu. Kuching in the south is the start of our Rajang River cruise.

Also on Borneo is the state of Brunei, whose capital Bandar Seri Begawan, is noted for its Sultan’s Palace and the Kampong Ayer water village. North of Borneo are the Philippine Islands whose capital Manila may be visited by cruise.