Singapore Cruises

The Best Singapore Cruises: Destinations, Duration, and Cruise Ships

The diversity of Singapore cruises means there’s an itinerary to suit every type of traveler and time frame. Most sailings depart from the state-of-the-art Marina Bay Cruise Centre (MBCC).

Quick Getaways: Weekend Cruises to Southeast Asia

The most popular Singapore cruises are the short, high-value trips that are perfect for a quick break or first-time cruisers.

• 3-Night, 4-Day Cruises: The classic weekend cruise, typically heading straight to a vibrant, exciting destination in Malaysia. Enjoy two relaxing nights at sea and a full day exploring a historic city.
• 4-Night, 5-Day Southeast Asia Adventure: Expand your trip to include two popular stops, most often calling at both Phuket, Thailand and Penang. These cruises offer a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and relaxation.

Long-Haul Singapore Cruise Adventures

For those dreaming of a longer voyage or a life-changing journey, Singapore serves as a key hub for repositioning trips.

• Epic Crossings: Sailings often travel to breathtaking destinations like Australia (via the South Pacific Australia) or embark on grand trans-continental journeys towards Europe or even Alaska during seasonal transfers. These longer cruises provide unbeatable value for money and are a great way to see the world.

Top Cruise Lines & Ships Sailing from Singapore Port

The major cruise lines operating from Singapore each offer a unique style of cruising, ensuring there's a perfect voyage for every kind of traveler looking for a cruise Singapore experience.

Royal Caribbean International

• Best For: High-Energy, Family Fun, and Innovation.
• Signature Onboard Feature: Home to some of the largest and most innovative ships, such as Ovation of the Seas, which features thrilling experiences like the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator and the FlowRider surf simulator, bringing you to new heights in onboard fun.

Princess Cruises

• Best For: Classic Elegance, Formal Nights, and Gourmet Dining Focus.
• Signature Onboard Feature: Known for its traditional, refined cruising experience, excellent service, and exceptional Gourmet Dining options. Princess offers an atmosphere of laid-back luxury perfect for couples and sophisticated travelers.

Genting Dream Cruises

• Best For: Asian Market Focus, Regional Expertise, and short, high-value weekend cruises.
• Signature Onboard Feature: These lines cater heavily to the Asian market, offering an extensive range of Asian-influenced gourmet dining and entertainment options, often featuring all-inclusive elements and short, popular sailings to Southeast Asia.

The Ovation of the Seas Experience

Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class ships, like the Ovation of the Seas, bring you to new heights in onboard innovation. Experience the thrill of freefall in the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator and catch a wave on the FlowRider surf simulator, all while sailing the high seas!

Planning Your Cruise from Singapore: Practical Tips for Travellers

Making the right choices during planning ensures every moment of your vacation is stress-free.

Access & Logistics at Marina Bay Cruise Centre (MBCC)

The majority of Singapore cruises depart from the magnificent Marina Bay Cruise Centre (MBCC).

• Getting There: MBCC is easily accessible. A taxi or ride-share from Changi Airport or the city centre takes about 20-30 minutes. You can also take the MRT (Circle Line/Downtown Line) to Bayfront Station, though a taxi from there is recommended due to the distance to the terminal entrance.
• Boarding Tips: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity beyond the cruise return date. Arrive during your allotted time slot to ensure a smooth boarding process.

Singapore Cruise Deals & The Best Time to Set Sail

When it comes to getting the best cruise deal and securing your preferred prices, timing is everything.

• Booking Strategy: Generally, book early (6-12 months out) for the best cabin selection and early-bird special offers. Alternatively, if you are flexible, look for last-minute deals (within 90 days) as cruise lines fill remaining cabins.
• Seasonal Tips: Singapore is tropical year-round, so you can always catch some sun. The drier season (typically November to February) often sees the calmest seas. Prices tend to be higher during local school holidays (June and December).
• Enhancement: Deal Hunters: Check our promo dashboard campaigns during Wave Season (January to March) for the most aggressive sales, often including free drinks, pre-paid gratuities, or onboard credit.

Visa and Travel Documents for Travelers

While short cruise stops often benefit from group visa exemptions, it is crucial for all travelers to confirm requirements based on their nationality.

• Southeast Asia Short Stops (Phuket/Penang/Malaysia): Most common nationalities (US, UK, AUS, NZ, SG) do not require a separate visa for a single-day shore excursion in Phuket or Penang as part of a closed-loop cruise.
• Specific Ports (e.g., Vietnam, China): Stops in countries like Vietnam often require passengers to obtain a visa or be on an approved cruise line-organised tour to disembark. Always check with your cruise line for your specific passport and port calls well in advance.

Singapore Cruise Onboard Experience

Your cruise ship is a floating resort, offering world-class facilities and experiences you won't want to miss.

• Gourmet Dining: Go beyond the main dining room. Indulge in specialty gourmet dining experiences ranging from world-class steakhouses to authentic Japanese sushi and Italian trattorias. The range of food options caters to every palate.
• Thrilling Entertainment: Enjoy Broadway-style shows, spectacular production numbers, and live music. Modern ships boast thrilling entertainment like ice skating rinks, indoor sports complexes (SeaPlex), and comedy clubs.
• Luxurious Amenities & Family Fun: Unwind in the spa or the adults-only Solarium, providing luxurious amenities for couples. Meanwhile, the kids' clubs and aqua parks ensure fun for the entire family.

Top Port Calls and Shore Excursions in Southeast Asia

A cruise from Singapore is the best way to explore the jewels of Southeast Asia through curated shore excursions.

Cultural Delights in Penang, Malaysia

Step into the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town.

• Must-See Sights: Explore the rich history and architecture of the Khoo Kongsi clan house or the colourful streets of Little India.
• The Food Adventure: Penang is Malaysia’s food capital. Your adventure isn't complete without sampling authentic Assam Laksa or Char Kway Teow from a hawker stall.

Beach Breaks & Adventures in Phuket, Thailand

Phuket offers the perfect mix of white-sand beaches and lively attractions.

• The Sun and Sand: Catch some sun at Patong Beach or embark on an island-hopping adventure to the Phi Phi Islands.
• Port Tip: Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available at the cruise terminal area for those wishing to explore independently.

Exploring Ancient Temples in Vietnam & Beyond

Longer itineraries may stop at ports providing access to Vietnam's imperial history and stunning landscapes.

• Discover Ancient Temples: From Ho Chi Minh City, you can access the majestic ancient temples and relics that tell the story of the region’s rich past.

Extend Your Vacation: Must-See Singapore Attractions Pre/Post Cruise

Don't let your vacation begin and end at the port. Spend an extra night or two to visit Singapore's famous sights.

• Iconic Sights: Visit Gardens by the Bay, ride the Singapore Flyer, or take a scenic river cruise.
• Culture & History: Explore the history of the colonial district, Chinatown, and Little India.
• Family Fun: Extend your family break by dedicating a day to Universal Studios Singapore on Sentosa Island.