Melaka River Cruise
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Melaka has a lot to offer regarding its history and culture. While it’s nice to roam freely and explore the city on foot, there’s another serene, captivating way to experience what it has to offer – enter the Melaka River Cruise.
On the river cruise, you’ll discover almost everything from historic sites to mesmerising street art and lights. So whether you’re into history, art, or just the charm of it all, it’ll take you on a journey into the heart and soul of Melaka.
What is the history of Melaka River?
Image credit: Leonardo0511 via Wikimedia Commons
The Melaka River has always been an integral part of the city’s history since the 15th century as a trade route during the Melaka Sultanate.
Nicknamed the “Venice of the East”, the river became a symbol of strategic relevance, culture, and life in the city – just like what Venice represented in Europe. Now, the Melaka River offers an experience worth trying when visitors set foot in Melaka.
What you can expect on the Melaka River Cruise
Image credit: TourismMelaka
The river cruise operates daily from 9am to 11pm, with boats departing every 30 minutes. The 45-minute boat ride is a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s history at a leisurely pace.
During the cruise, you’ll see a good number of attractions from historical bridges and landmarks to vibrant street art scattered throughout the city.
Church of Saint Francis Xavier and Kampung Morten.
Image adapted from: britishmalaya, My Melaka via Facebook
Notable architectural landmarks include the St. Francis Xavier Church, Kampung Hulu Mosque, and even local villages such as Kampung Morten.
Image credit: Where We Bee
Apart from historical sites, the abundance of street art adds to the charm and culture of Melaka, which is visible from the boat.
What is the best time of day to take the Melaka River Cruise?
Image credit: Traveloka
Depending on your preferences, the day and night cruise offer a different experience for its passengers.
Aside from being ideal for taking great photos, the day cruise creates a vibrant atmosphere, with the sun shining its light upon the surrounding art and attractions.
Image credit: Thrillophilia
The night cruise, on the other hand, sets a romantic, quiet scene with the bridges and riverbanks decorated with luminescent lights.
How much does the Melaka River Cruise ticket cost?
Tickets are always available at the Taman Rempah and Muara Sungai jetties, both nearby the Maritime Museum. However, if you want to secure a spot in advance, feel free to purchase tickets online at the cruise’s official website or trusted local tourism sites.
For tourists, ticket prices for the cruise are as follows:
- RM38 per pax for adults
- RM33 per pax for children aged two to 12
For locals, discounts are available for children, students, seniors, and persons with disabilities (OKU). Ticket prices are as follows:
- RM33 per pax for adults
- RM28 per pax for seniors aged 60-69 and students
- RM23 per pax for children aged two to 12 and adult OKU aged 13-59
- RM18 per pax for super seniors aged 70 and above, and child OKU aged two to 12
Things to note when checking out the Melaka River Cruise
For those with private vehicles, it’s best to park near the Taman Rempah jetty as parking in town can be challenging. The area is easily accessible with ample parking space. If you prefer staying close to the area while waiting for the next ride, feel free to relax at the covered waiting area – it’s spacious enough to accommodate up to 80 people.
You might also consider dining at Peranakan restaurants around Jonker Street to learn more about Melaka’s culture through local delicacies.
A Melaka River Cruise experience
When you step back onto the streets of Melaka, one thing is for sure – the Melaka River Cruise isn’t just about the historical landmarks. It’s about losing yourself in the beauty and experience that it offers.
So the next time you visit the city of Melaka, try cruising along its river instead of walking its streets. The art, diverse architecture, and the twinkling lights at night will definitely leave a lasting impression on you.
Address: Perbadanan Pembangunan Sungai Dan Pantai Melaka (PPSPM) Dataran Pengkalan Rama, Pengkalan Rama Pantai, 75100 Melaka
Opening hours: 9am-11pm, Daily
Contact: 06-281 4322 | 06-281 4323 | Melaka River Cruise website
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Cover image adapted from: Traveloka