Flown by Airasia in one of its twelfth flights flying daily from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching, we were greeted by Sarawak Tourism Board officers at the airport. After a quick check-in at Imperial Hotel, Kuching, we rode the bus to the Kuching Waterfront for Sarawak River Cruise. While waiting for the cruise, some of us took time to photograph the iconic Parliament House and Astana, the former residence Rajah Brooke which now serves as the Governor’s residence. I did just the same and ended up with atleast 30 pictures of the Parliament House and Astana.
Then, I joined the others for sumptuous fried fritters served in rattan tray at one of the stalls that lined Kuching Waterfront.
Sarawak River Cruise
Slightly before 5.30pm which is the daily departure time for the Sarawak River Cruise, we boarded the cruise ship and headed straight to the Sky Deck, in order to enjoy the cool breeze. The Sky Deck was already full by then, but we managed to grab chairs and squeeze in at one of the tables. The Lower Deck is air-conditioned and more comfortable for those with children.
Important man of Sarawak River Cruise.
Light refreshment and juices were served on boat. Imagine sipping juice and mouthing Sarawak’s famous layered cakes while enjoying the picturesque landscapes and insights on the unique life of the people in Kuching. I enjoyed the cooling breeze sweeping on my face and took to the views as the narrator gave an overview of the landmarks the cruise ship passed by.
Brooke Dockyard was formed in the same year as the Titanic sank. It was named after the then-reigning rajah, Charles Brooke.
The Old State Mosque or Kuching Mosque is affectionately known as Masjid Lama.
Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building
The white palace on the northern bank across the river was built in 1870 by Charles Brooke as a bridal gift to his wife, Margaret.
The mountain cropping in the background added dramatic feel to the landscape. How scenic.
Fishing vessels and modern building in one shot.
I could not help but to note the traditional fishing villages with wooden stilt houses located across the river from modern architecture buildings. Personally, the Sarawak Sunset Cruise provides ample photography opportunity within its 1.5 hours journey.
Not to forget the cultural performances! 3 different dances from three different ethnic.
Apart from the Daily Signature Sunset Cruise happening daily from 5.30pm to 7.00pm, you can also opt for customised events such as a romantic wedding, a corporate function, a special evening with friends or a birthday bash.
The general admission fee is RM60 per pax. To join the Daily Signature Sunset Cruise, you can purchase your ticket before 5.30pm at the Kuching Waterfront; you would not miss the medium size cruise ship moored at one of the jettys. |Tips : Board the cruise ship as early as 5pm to secure the Sky Deck seats. |
For more info : http://www.facebook/sarawakrivercruise
Contact : 082-240366
Top Spot Food Court
To complete the night, what better place to go than Top Spot Food Court for dinner. It is located at Jln Bukit Mata. Top Spot Food Court provides widest choice of seafood outlets for visitors in Kuching. Strategically located on the roof top of a car park, there are a dozen of seafood restaurants offering Malay seafood, Chinese seafood, claypot seafood and many others. Fresh fish and custacaceans are displayed for you to pick. From my recent trip to Top Spot Food Court, I also noticed a restaurant specifically for umai, Melanau traditional food.
There is also a famous sugarcane stall where you can mix your sugarcane juice with asam boi and lime. I did try the sugarcane with lime, it tasted good. Top Spot Food Court opens from 12am to 11pm daily.
The trip to Sarawak River Cruise was made possible by Tourism Selangor and Sarawak Tourism Board as part of #tsdayout Special Edition Selangor Meets Sarawak. Airasia flies direct to Kuching from Kuala Lumpur 12 times a day.