Hafen
Kota Kinabalu

Cruise into a protected, mangrove wetlands teeming with wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, which are only found in Borneo.

After departing from the pier, you will settle in for a meandering and immensely scenic drive into the Klias Wetland, a vast reserve of mangrove forests. Upon reaching the Klias River, which runs through the heart of the wetlands, you will cruise into the wilderness.

Wildlife is abundant in and out of the water. You may spot eagles in the treetops, crocodiles basking along the shore and long-tailed macaques. Many Buddhists and Hindus consider these monkeys sacred, one of the reasons that they are commonly seen around temples.

Still, the most revered animal in the wetlands is the proboscis monkey, an endangered species that is most active later in the day. Endemic to Borneo, these rather odd-looking primates are named for their long, pendulous noses. Scientists believe that the purpose of their large proboscises is to allow the monkeys to produce remarkably loud warning calls.

Besides being excellent swimmers, proboscis monkeys wade through shallow water on their hind feet. They are also sometimes spotted walking through the forest in an upright position. They are one of the few monkeys that are habitually bipedal.

It will be quite the sight to see one, as only about a thousand of proboscis monkeys are estimated to live in the wild. The protected Klias Wetland is one of the finest places in Borneo to see them.

Sabah is the second largest state in Malaysia, located on the northern tip of Borneo Island and one of Southeast Asia's greatest surprises.

This half-day tour will introduce you to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah's modern state capital with its alluring blend of Malay and Chinese culture. Largely destroyed during World War II, Kota Kinabalu has since developed into one of Malaysia's most exciting cities. Go past the serene City Mosque, followed by a photo stop at the Tun Mustapha Building. A 30-storey circular glass edifice supported by high tensile steel rods, this amazing structure is an architectural and engineering feat, one of only four such buildings in the world.

Continuing on, you will stop at the Sabah State Museum to see the extensive exhibits of Sabah's diverse culture, beliefs and traditions at the Heritage Village. Situated within the Ethno Botanical Gardens, you’ll find replicas of traditional long houses representing the different ethnic communities of Sabah. Enter the houses and discover the way of life of the different groups. Take a walk on the hanging bridge across the lotus pond and enjoy the beautiful and peaceful scenery.

From here, it's on to the magnificent Masjid Negeri Sabah or State Mosque, with its golden inlay motifs and impressive minaret. After a photo stop here, you will then make your way to your final stop, a brief visit to a local handicraft market where you can mingle with the locals and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs to take home.

Enjoy a panoramic drive in air-conditioned comfort through Kota Kinabalu, the culturally diverse capital of the Sabah state. As you travel through the city, known affectionately as KK, you will pass a variety of attractions, giving you a broad understanding of life here. Along the way, you drive past the waterfront city mosque and you will pause for photos at the glass-and-steel Tun Mustapha high rise. Like most of the buildings in Kota Kinabalu, they were constructed post-World War II, as the Allies razed the city during the war to prevent the Japanese from using it as a base. Islam is the main religion, but Buddhism is also practiced in temples such as Pu Tuo Si, which features traditional Chinese architecture. The Sabah state is also known for its natural beauty, which you will see while stopping for a drink at Marriot Hotel.

Towering 13,431 feet above the verdant tropical jungles, Mount Kinabalu is the magnificent centerpiece of Kinabalu Park and one of the highest mountains in Southeast Asia. This full day tour is to Malaysia's first World Heritage Site, selected by UNESCO for its role as one of the world's most important biological centers. Your tour begins with a 2 hour drive through the Crocker Range en route to the park. Time is allowed at a roadside market for a chance to mingle with the native Dusun people. You will then continue on your journey to Mt. Kinabalu. A natural paradise, the mountain has four vegetation zones and is home to an incredibly diverse range of flora, including over 1200 species of orchids, 25 species of rhododendrons and nine species of carnivorous nepenthes plants. Touring the park, enjoy the opportunity to walk along one of the most beautiful trails in the park. After the trail, continue for lunch at a resort situated atop a hill, approximately 5,000 feet above sea level. The property has a commanding view of the majestic Mount Kinabalu (weather dependent), the highest mountain in South East Asia and dominating Malaysia’s First World Heritage Site, the Kinabalu National Park. After lunch, step out to the garden and enjoy the beauty of the sprawling foot hills dotted by temperate vegetable farms and the natural cool atmosphere.

Experience authentic tribal life in a jungle village where the residents still embrace the ancient customs and traditions of their ancestors.

joy an orientation drive through Kota Kinabalu, formerly known as Jesselton and affectionately called KK, making a couple of photo stops along the way.

Continuing on into the heavily forested countryside, you will soon arrive at the Mari-Mari Cultural Village, where you can savor the soul of Sabah. Different ethnic tribes are represented in the village in a natural environment where their traditions and histories have been well preserved.

During your visit, you have the unique opportunity to acquaint yourself with each tribe as they welcome you into their homes and give you a glimpse of their simple, yet intricate lives. Not only does this village portray these tribes through the architectural genius of their traditional houses, but also through a range of simulated lives of the olden epoch by the residents of the village. You will hear stories of how their ancestors lived, learn about their spiritual beliefs, and see demonstrations that may include fire starting, cooking and tattooing. Tribal traditions are alive and well here.

You will also be treated to an entertaining cultural performance before sitting down to lunch. Some of the dishes have been prepared in cookware made of bamboo cut in the forest.

On the return to the pier, you will stop at a handicraft market known for its selection of beautiful sarongs, cultured pearl jewelry and tribal masks.

Gain an insight to the cultural diversity of Borneo's ethnic groups and their simple way of traditional living on this half-day excursion.  Discover the architectural uniqueness of each tribal house as you walk through the cultural village and complete your Borneo experience with a live presentation of music and dance.

Mari Mari Cultural Village

Depart the pier for the approximately 40-minute drive to the Mari Mari Cultural Village, situated amidst a remote forest setting and away from the hustling and bustling city.

The village is a museum that preserves Borneo ethnic culture and features 5 different indigenous ethnic tribes in one village:  the rice farmers of Kadazan-Dusun, the longhouse residents of Rungus, the hunters and fishermen of Lundayeh, the cowboys and sea gypsies of Bajau, and the famously feared headhunting tribe, Murut.  Explore the various traditional homes of these Sabahan ethnic communities, which have been built by descendants of the tribes which they represent.

Capture the cultural diversity of Borneo's ethnic groups and their simple way of traditional living.  Each tribe has found wa ys to

adapt to the living in Borneo such as cooking using bamboo, starting a fire without matches, making rope from tree bark and there a stalls offering Sabah delicacies where you can taste herbal drinks, rice wine. Discover the architectural uniqueness of each tribal house as you walk through the cultural village while enjoying the serene village environment with cultural experience

Your visit ends with a simple demonstration of traditional dances with the famous Murut Megunatip, or bamboo dance, as the finale before you travel back to port.

Sabah is a Malaysian state located on the north-west side of the island of Borneo. In addition to the mountainous areas, rainforests dominate its countryside with river valleys decorating the landscape. Experience the flora up-close and from a unique rafting adventure and light refreshment next to the beautiful and scenic Kiulu River.  

Board the coach at the pier and head inland towards the abundant rainforest. The lush, green countryside lines the road during  your 90-minute journey as you pass quaint villages and signs of rural life. After winding through the undulating hills of Kiulu, arrive  at the 'put-in' location on the river and meet your guide. Listen to your guide has they provide a river and rafting orientation, as  well as a safety briefing. After you are issued with your equipment, put in at the water's edge and begin your rafting adventure.  

Depending on the weather and previous days' rainfall, the river generally runs at a Class I or II rafting classification, perfect for  beginners as well as those with previous rafting experience. The ride down this scenic river is over gentle rapids, passing lush  green, jungle forests, Dusun orchards, and villages.The bamboo-fringed river is an exciting introduction to the joys of river rafting  and provides for a pleasant respite from the tropical heat as the cool waters invigorate your senses. As you paddle, admire and be captivated by the breathtaking nature around you and enjoy a relaxing swim along the calm stretches between rapids.  Enjoy a relaxing swim along the calm stretches  between rapids.  

The river journey takes 1-2 hours, depending on the river stage. At the 'take-out' point, light refreshment awaits. Then, the coach begins the hour's journey back to the pier.  

Discover the iconic landmarks of Kota Kinabalu from the comfort of your coach during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Kota Kinabalu, Tun Mustapha Tower, State Assembly Building, City Mosque, Clock Tower, Museum

Depart the pier for a narrated and guided sightseeing drive through Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah. Along the way, pass by the iconic sites of this beautiful, modern, and culturally-diverse Kota Kinabalu city by the sea. Included is the Tun Mustapha Tower, the city’s tallest building. After a photo stop here, re-board your coach and continue past the State Assembly Building, stunning City Mosque, a glimpse view of Atkinson Clock Tower, and the Sabah Museum before another photo stop is made along the road outside of the State Mosque.

State Mosque, Tanjung Aru, State Library, Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, City Centre, Malls

Upon arrival, take in a splendid exterior view and photo opportunity of the spectacular State Mosque, and learn about its history. Continue travel, pass through the Tanjung Aru area and by the State Library building en route to the elegant Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, one of the finest resorts of Kota Kinabalu. Following a refreshment, comfort, and photo stop here, re-board your coach for a ride past the Sutera Harbour Resort – The Pacific & Magellan Sutera Harbour, and city centre, home of major shopping malls such as the Imago Shopping Mall, Centre Point and Suria Sabah Mall. The final leg of your sightseeing drive passes Jesselton Point before returning to the pier.

Explore the highlights of Kota Kinabalu during a picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion that brings you to some of its highlights at the city.

Kota Kinabalu, Tun Mustapha Tower, City Mosque (external visit), Atkinson Clock Tower

Depart the pier for the short drive through scenic Kota Kinabalu and its environs. You'll get to pause for photos at the Tun Mustapha Tower, a 30-story circular glass and steel tower that's one of only three buildings in the world constructed in this "suspended" manner, as well as at the City Mosque for a photo stop, an exemplary of contemporary Islamic architecture surrounded by a man-made lagoon giving an illusion of a floating mosque.

Puh Toh Tze Temple

Next destination will be the Puh Toh Tze Temple. This impressive temple features a stone staircase-pavilion flanked by 10 Chinese deities leading up to a main temple complex dominated by Kwan Yin, Goddess of Mercy. A Chinese-style reclining Buddha rests inside. It is good spot to walk around to seek some quiet moments within their compound amidst our busy schedules and to take some photos for remembrance.

Heritage Village, Tribal Houses and Sabah Museum Heritage Village

The Heritage Village offers guests a wonderful introduction to the culture, people and architectural styles of North Borneo. Each tribe has built their houses with their own unique layout and design using bamboo, tree bark, nipah leaves and other local materials sourced from their area. In addition to the native houses, visit the Sabah Museum to admire the colourful traditional costumes of the different tribes.

Notes: Sabah Museum main building is closed for renovation.

Handicraft Market

Next, re-board your coach for a quick shopping stop at the handicraft market. Afterward, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 20-minute drive back to the pier.

Enjoy journey to the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mt. Kinabalu Park. Enjoy a scenic 2 hours drive as you pass by Dusun villages over the ridges of the Crocker Range to the foothills of Mt. Kinabalu. The jagged granite peaks of Mt. Kinabalu (13,435 feet or 4,095 metres) towers above one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Kinabalu Park is a natural wonder that offers day visitors a glimpse into the fascinating and often unique world of plant life within the park.

Mount Kinabalu

Considered to be one of the world's most important biological sites, the Park showcase a fascinating and unrivalled ecological system. Mt. Kinabalu is one of the youngest non-volcanic mountains in the world. It was "born" within the last 10 to 35 million years and is still growing at a rate of 5 milimeters a year. Continue to the park headquarters at 5,000 feet (1,524 metres) for a 30-45-minute casual walk (approximately one kilometer in length) on one of the trails in the cool surroundings of the mountain forest. Learn about the unique park's flora as you walk through the botanical garden, home to many species of flowering rhododendrons, carnivorous pitcher plants, orchids, ferns, oak trees.

Enjoy lunch before re-board the coach for the return drive back to the ship.

Relax and unwind amidst the verdant tropical beauty and elegance of the luxurious Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort during this immersive, half-day beach excursion.

Kota Kinabalu, Shangri-La Rasa Ria Beach Resort

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to the idyllic Shangri-La Rasa Ria Beach Resort. Nestled amidst a verdant nature reserve and overlooking approximately two miles (about 3.2 kilometres) of idyllic beach, the resort boasts a pristine, natural aura that is quite enchanting. Its location on Pantai Dalit Beach features a backdrop of approximately 400 acres (about 161.8-hectares) of lush, tropical forest, creating a feeling of exclusivity, privacy, and seclusion. Shangri-La Rasa Ria is also home to an eco-friendly, championship golf course and the magnificent Spa at Dalit Bay.

Welcome Drink, Swimming Pool, Beachfront, Garden Wing, Sunbathing, Swimming, Refreshments

Your arrival is greeted with a welcome drink and short briefing to acclimate you with the resort’s facilities. Afterward, stroll on over to the inviting swimming pool or beachfront area at the resort’s Garden Wing, and while away your day in total relaxation. Enjoy sunbathing, beachcombing, and/or a refreshing swim at the beach front only (this is subject to sea condition). Whilst relaxing, quench your thirst with light refreshments, along with savoury snacks and desserts, at a private set-up area at the Sampan Bar near the pool from 10 a.m. onward.

Rasa Ria Reserve, Coastal Jungle, Mount Kinabalu, Flora, Fauna, Butterflies, Wildlife, Birdlife

During your visit, you can take an optional walking tour (available upon request) of the resort’s Rasa Ria Reserve, an approximately 64-acre (about 26-hectare) coastal jungle. Split into two distinctive zones, the Nature Reserve and Adventure Point, the Rasa Ria Reserve provides a natural habitat for visitors with a passion for learning and exploring. Following your tour, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Explore Kota Kinabalu at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your Driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Kota Kinabalu at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your Driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Kota Kinabalu at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your Driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Kota Kinabalu at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your Driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.