Set Sail for the Wonders of Singapore with Cruise1st
Singapore is a dazzling city-state that combines rich history, modern skyscrapers, and vibrant cultures all in one place. Known for its cleanliness, safety, and incredible culinary scene, this bustling metropolis is a top destination for cruisers looking for an exotic getaway. Fun fact: Singapore is made up of over 60 islands and features one of the world’s busiest ports! A cruise to Singapore provides the perfect opportunity to explore its unique mix of attractions—from the tranquil Gardens by the Bay to the lively markets of Chinatown—while enjoying the comforts of a floating hotel.
Major Cruise Lines Offering Singapore Itineraries
- Cunard: With a fleet of just 4 ships, Cunard has 3 making waves in Singapore: Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2 are prominent choices. These ships stand out for their elegant atmosphere, classic British tea service, and top-notch entertainment options. Most sailings depart from ports like Sydney for domestic cruisers and international hubs such as Hong Kong or Southampton. It’s a luxurious way to experience Singapore and beyond!
- Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a fleet of 29, Royal Caribbean has 4 ships that cruise to Singapore—Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas amongst them. Known for their inventive onboard experiences and family-friendly atmosphere, these ships ensure a fun-filled adventure. Passengers can set sail from Sydney for domestic departures or from vibrant international cities such as Dubai and Singapore itself.
- Princess Cruises: This line’s fleet of 17 includes 5 ships that visit Singapore, notably the Diamond Princess and Coral Princess. These are delightful options for cruisers who enjoy exceptional onboard dining experiences and diverse entertainment. Guests can start their journey from Sydney or Brisbane for domestic departures or from international ports like Singapore or Auckland.
- Norwegian Cruise Line: With 20 overall ships, Norwegian sends 4 to Singapore, including Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Sky. Offering a lively ambience with plenty of dining choices, these ships are perfect for cruisers looking to unwind and have fun. Most often, departures originate from Singapore or Keelung (Taipei), making it easy to access.
- Holland America Line: With 11 ships in the fleet, Holland America features 5 that cruise to Singapore, such as the Westerdam and Noordam. They’re celebrated for their cultural immersion excursions and fine dining. Departures can occur from Sydney—ideal for local cruisers—with alternative international ports being Hong Kong and Singapore.
Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Singapore
- Oceania Cruises: Oceania has a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 offering excursions to Singapore, including the Regatta and Riviera. Known for their exceptional dining experiences, these ships cater to true food lovers. Departures typically occur from Sydney for national cruisers, as well as from Singapore or Hong Kong for international travelers—an excellent way to access the flavours of Asia!
- Silversea: Featuring a fleet of 12, Silversea operates 5 ships that travel to Singapore, with Silver Nova and Silver Dawn leading the charge. They provide an all-inclusive luxury experience that delights discerning guests with gourmet dining and personalized service. Cruises often depart from Melbourne or Perth for domestic passengers, along with international departures from Singapore or Tokyo, making each journey distinctively memorable.
- Azamara Cruises: With 4 ships in total, Azamara offers itineraries to Singapore via 3 of their vessels, including Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward. They focus on immersive, destination-intensive experiences, giving you a well-rounded perspective of the regions visited. Departures are often from Sydney for domestic cruisers and frequently from Singapore or Hong Kong as well.
- Seabourn: With 6 ships in their fleet, Seabourn boasts 1—Seabourn Encore—offering itineraries to Singapore. Renowned for their elegant atmosphere and superb service, they allow guests to revel in intimacy and luxury. Typically departing from Hong Kong or Singapore, this cruise line assures a captivating exploration of Southeast Asia.
Top Harbours to Explore in Singapore
- Singapore: The city itself is packed with things to do! While docked, cruise passengers can wander through the stunning Gardens by the Bay, where the futuristic Supertree Grove and Cloud Forest await, or explore the bustling streets of Chinatown and Little India. The iconic Marina Bay Sands offers an unbeatable skyline view from its observation deck. Don’t miss out on trying the famous chili crab at a local eatery!
Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Singapore
- Hong Kong: Known for its vibrant energy and stunning skyline, cruise passengers can spend the day indulging in world-class shopping, sampling delicious dim sum, or taking a ferry ride across Victoria Harbour. Don’t miss the stunning views from Victoria Peak!
- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Experience a bustling metropolis filled with energy! Make time to visit historical sites like the War Remnants Museum, or enjoy the street food offered at local markets. A guided cyclo (bike taxi) tour can take you through the city’s vibrant streets for a unique perspective.
- Bangkok (Klong Toey), Thailand: Bangkok has it all! While docked, explore the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, home to the Reclining Buddha. Enjoy a traditional Thai massage at a local spa or hop on a long-tail boat ride through the canals for a taste of life along the waterways.
- Sydney, Australia: A vibrant harbour city, Sydney boasts iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Tour the historic Rocks area, enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Manly Beach, or immerse yourself in the thriving food scene.
- Phuket, Thailand: Famous for its stunning beaches and lively nightlife, Phuket offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and festivity. Explore the charming old town with its colourful Sino-Portuguese architecture or take part in thrilling watersports like snorkeling or jet-skiing.
When to Cruise to Singapore
There is never really a bad time to visit Singapore, but it’s good to know what to expect during your travels. The city enjoys a tropical climate year-round with temperatures generally ranging from 25-31°C. The driest months are typically from February to April, making this period especially pleasant for outdoor exploration. May to August can be quite humid, around 28-32°C, which is perfect if you enjoy lush greenery and vibrant blooms across the city. The rainy season from November to January offers warm weather with occasional showers, creating a lush environment perfect for culture and food exploration.
Cost Overview for Cruises to Singapore
A 1-week cruise to Singapore generally costs between $1,500 to $2,500 AUD, while 2-week itineraries might range from $3,000 to $4,500 AUD. Luxury cruises typically begin at $4,500 AUD for one week, reaching $9,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining is generally included on most cruises, but if you choose to dine ashore, you can expect to spend about $20-50 AUD per meal, while cocktails or drinks at local bars and restaurants usually cost around $8-15 AUD each.
Alternative Regions to Consider
If you’re contemplating a cruise to Singapore, consider these captivating alternatives:
- Malaysia: Neighboring Singapore, Malaysia offers stunning cultural experiences in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, along with breathtaking natural parks – all within easy reach from Singapore!
- Thailand: Boasting beautiful beaches, bustling markets, and vibrant culture, Thailand is perfect for those seeking relaxation and adventure all in one trip. The rich history and mouth-watering cuisine are bound to entice any traveler.
- Bali: A favourite for sun lovers, Bali offers beautiful beaches, rich culture, and stunning landscapes. Perfect for those who want to unwind while soaking up the tropical vibes!
- Vietnam: With its enchanting scenery from bustling cities to tranquil rice paddies, Vietnam offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and stunning vistas that are easily accessible through cruises.
- Hong Kong: A vibrant metropolis that promises a rich blend of cultures, fantastic shopping, and tantalising food experiences. This exciting destination is a perfect pre-or post-cruise stop over!
Let Cruise1st help you navigate your journey to Singapore and beyond! Embrace the adventure waiting for you in this unique fusion of culture, cuisine, and cosmopolitan charm!