Asia is one of the major cruise spots and destinations in the world accounting for about 8% of global cruise volume in 2022. Cruise ports and destinations in Asia offer incredible opportunities for luxury cruise passengers to explore, experience and enjoy thrilling natural wonders, bustling towns and cities, and an enormous collection of dazzling attractions.
Sail across diverse cultures and breathtaking scenery in an itinerary of a lifetime. There are endless delightful experiences to relish on an Asian cruise.
From the Malay paradises of Malaysia and Singapore to the affluent nations of China and Japan and the culturally diverse archipelago of Indonesia several cruise ships explore this dynamic region either through a dedicated itinerary or during their world cruises passing through the region.
Several fascinating cruise ports and destinations worth experiencing dot the coasts of Asia. Asia is undoubtedly best explored through a glamourous voyage giving you the chance to discover ancient traditions, amazing cultures, mesmerizing topography, scrumptious traditional cuisines and heartwarming locals.
In this article, I will take you through the 10 best luxury cruise ports and destinations in Asia for a voyage and itinerary of class and grandeur.
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Best Luxury Cruise Ports and Destinations in Asia
1. Manila, Philippines
Manila, the Capital of the Philippines is one of the leading cruise ports and destinations in Asia. The fascinating Filipina city was declared Asia’s Best Cruise Destination for 2023 by the World Cruise Awards. Manila is located in Luzon, one of the major Islands of the Philippines.
The city of Manila is served by the Manilla Cruise Port located within walking distance of Old Manila. The port is the most popular for cruises intending to explore the Philippines. There are three main sections in the Manila Port – North Harbour, South Harbour and the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT).
In Manila, you can explore the famous Intramuros Walled City, experience Binondo China Town, visit the Rizal Park and the National Museum of the Philippines, and see fascinating marine wildlife at the Manila Ocean Park. Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, Roxas Boulevard and the Pagsanjan Falls are all among the most famous attractions to relish in Manila.
On arrival at the Manila Cruise Port, the port staff welcome disembarking passengers and crew with a modest fanfare.
Boracay, Puerto Princesa and Ilocos (Salomague) are other popular cruise ports and cruise destinations in the Philippines offering a combination of great beaches, pleasant weather, delicious cuisines and stunning attractions.
2. Ha Long, Vietnam
Vietnam is a phenomenal Southeast Asia country that has been pronounced Asia’s Leading Destination for 2023 by the World Travel Awards. Vietnam offers some of the best luxury cruise ports and destinations in Asia.
Cruises to and through Vietnam are no strangers to the immaculate Halong Bay located in northeastern Vietnam. The Ha Long International Cruise Port is the premier and most popular in Vietnam. The port can conveniently hold the largest cruise ships and superyachts in the world.
Halong Bay is known as being a World Heritage Site and famous for its several enchanting limestone mountains, tranquil beaches, mysterious caves and grottos and serene fishing villages.
Explore this Asian wonderland and its mesmerizing grottos and caves like the Sung Sot Cave, Heaven Cave, Luon Cave, Incense Burner Islet and Dau Go Cave. Ti Top Island, Bai Tu Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island and the Cua Van Floating Village are great natural attractions you will find in Halong Bay.
Indulge in a wide range of fun activities like swimming, kayaking, snorkelling, hiking, and fishing. You can also participate in a cooking or tai chi class, embark on a dining tour or take part in a sunset party.
Ha Long Bay is one of the foremost cruise ports and destinations in Asia that is regularly included in most Asia cruise itineraries.
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3. Singapore
Singapore, a city-state and an eminent international cruise destination in Southeast Asia boast a radiant culture and enchanting cityscape with many recreational and entertainment amenities to delight visiting cruise guests and crew.
The city has two cruise ports. The Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS), is a luxury cruise port and Singapore’s main cruise facility. According to Forbes, MBCCS is one of the most beautiful cruise terminals in the world! The Centre is just a short trip from the world’s tallest observation wheel, the Singapore Flyer.
As one of the most luxurious cities in the world for a luxury splurge, Singapore offers a wide range of high-end activities and attractions.
Aside from the Singapore Flyer on which you can have spectacular panoramic views of Singapore and as far as Malaysia and the islands of Indonesia on a clear day, the Artscience Museum, Universal Studios, the Marine Life Park, Gardens by the Bay, the Resorts World Sentosa are among the top attractions to indulge in Singapore.
Experience the most iconic landmark in Singapore, the Marina Bay Sands, a short drive away from the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore. Splurge on high-end luxury brands in Orchard Road and take a lavish river cruise through the old colonial areas of Boat Quay and Clarke Quay.
Savour delicious Singaporean cuisines like Nasi Lemak, Laksa, Indian Rojak and Hokkien Prawn Mee.
4. Bangkok, Thailand
According to PassportSymphony, Bangkok, the national capital of Thailand, is one of the most visited cities in Asia and Amber Kampot highlights the city as one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia.
With the Port of Laem Chabang, an international cruise port located just two hours south of Bangkok, the city is one of the best luxury cruise ports and destinations in Asia offering a rich cultural experience, upbeat urban vibe, gourmet cuisines and tones of fun, relaxation and entertainment activities.
Bangkok is graced with several landmarks and attractions you should see and experience like the Grand Palace, the floating market, and the Wat Pho (Bangkok’s largest and oldest reclining Buddha).
Tour the dynamic ancient temples of Bangkok, enjoy local street food on Khao San Road, shop for souvenirs and local produce at the Chatuchak Weekend Market, take a boat trip along the Chao Phraya River and visit the Golden Mountain Temple.
For a more immersive exploration of the city, book a tuk-tuk guided tour.
Bangkok is known for its silk production, so be sure to buy some silk products or materials before leaving. You should also experience a traditional Thai massage for a pleasant and rejuvenating relaxation.
5. Bali, Indonesia
The island of Bali is the most popular tourist spot in Indonesia and one of the best luxury cruise ports and destinations in Asia. Bali is a small pristine island with a little over 4.2 million inhabitants. The island is the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands East of Java and West of Lombok.
Bali is primarily served by the Tanjung Benoa Cruise Port which is where international cruise ships and other commercial trading vessels docks.
The island is unique and completely different from the rest of Indonesia due to the dominance of Balinese Hindus and temples. It has severally been voted as one of the best islands in the world.
Tanah Lot, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Pura Tirta Empul Temple, Uluwatu Temple, Ceking Rice Terrace and the Waterborn Bali are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Bali.
There are so many ways to explore, experience and enjoy Bali, especially in a classy manner. You can stay in a lavish 5-star resort, indulge in high-end Spa and wellness retreats, satisfy your palate at an exclusive restaurant, take a luxury yacht trip, relax on the beaches and book a private volcano helicopter ride.
You can also experience a private sunset at Tanah Lot Temple with dinner, take a luxury catamaran ride to the nearby island of Nusa Lembongan, get a splash at the Tegenungan Waterfall and explore the Bali Safari and Marine Park.
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6. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is the political, economic, and cultural capital of Japan. The city of Tokyo is served by the Tokyo Port. The port houses three (3) cruise terminals, the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal, the Harumi Terminal and the Oi Terminal [Source].
The Tokyo International Cruise Terminal serves as the primary cruise facility for accommodating international cruise arrivals to Tokyo and it is within reach of major transportation centres in Tokyo including the Shinkansen (bullet train) stations and two international airports – the Narita and Haneda airports.
Tokyo is the gateway to the highest level of Japanese opulence and exploring this city from a cruise during a call at port should not be short of the opulence and glamour the city is known for.
Tokyo’s ultra-modern side is perfectly balanced by its dynastic past featuring the remarkable Imperial Palace, the Meiji Shrine and the Sensoji Temple.
Explore the fancy side of Tokyo through luxury shopping at the Minato-ku, Tokyo’s most expensive neighbourhood, take a break at the Shinjuku Gyoen national garden, ascend the Tokyo Tower for a panoramic view of the city and savour some authentic Japanese sushi in one of its finest restaurants.
In the greater Tokyo area, Hakone and Nikko are also amazing destinations to experience on a day trip.
Some cruises to Tokyo dock at Yokohama, 40km away, from where passengers can take a train to Tokyo.
7. Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China and one of the vibrant cruise ports and destinations in Asia. Cruise ships visiting Hong Kong, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world docks at either of the three main cruise terminals in Hong Kong – the Ocean Terminal, the Star Ferry Terminal or the Kai Tak Terminal.
The Kai Tak Terminal is the premier, newest and most potent cruise port in Hong Kong. This is probably where your cruise ship will dock during your Asia cruise itinerary or world tour through Hong Kong.
Explore the city’s best attractions like the Victoria Peak, the Tian Tian Buddha (the world’s largest outdoor Buddha statue), Hong Kong Disney Land, the Ocean Park Hong Kong, Temple Street Night Market, Star Ferry, Dragon Back, and the Avenue of Stars.
You should also see the Hong Kong Wetland Park, the Hong Kong Zoological and Biological Gardens, shop at the Stanley Market or take a day trip to Macau or Lantau Island.
Luxury shopping, delicious local foods, sightseeing, temples visit and fun activities in the parks are the major highlights of the Hong Kong cruise tour.
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8. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The capital and largest city in Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, is served by the Port Klang Cruise Terminal (PKCT). This is where international cruise ships and vessels that visit the city docks. PKCT is the biggest and busiest cruise port in Malaysia.
Kuala Lumpur, a bustling Malay city of 1.75 million residents [Source], is one of the best luxury cruise ports and destinations in Asia you should explore, experience and enjoy. The city has also been featured as one of the most visited in Asia several times.
The Port Klang Cruise Terminal is the main access point to Kuala Lumpur and it offers disembarking cruise passengers state-of-the-art facilities and amenities including air-conditioned buildings (with a three-story main building), link bridges for embarkation and disembarkation, covered walkways, restaurants, cafes, gift and souvenir shops, ATMs, and duty-free outlets.
Just about an hour’s trip by road from PKCT, you’ll arrive at the magnificent city of Kuala Lumpur where endless luxury, fun, recreational and entertainment opportunities await.
The primary attraction and landmark of Kuala Lumpur are the Petronas Twin Towers. Other popular points of interest are the Aquaria KLCC, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, Kuala Lumpur Tower, Batu Caves, the Petaling Street Market, the National Mosque of Malaysia and the National Museum of Malaysia.
You should also experience the Genting SkyWorld’s Theme Park, visit the colonial Royal Selangor Club and feel the city’s vibe as you explore on a Hop-On Hop-Off bus.
9. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul is a megacity and capital of South Korea located to the north of the Han River in a hilly and mountainous topography with the Bukhan Mountain lying on its northern edge. The city of Seoul has a population of 9.6 million people as of 2023 [Source].
Seoul has consistently been one of the most livable cities in Asia and it is also among the most prominent cruise ports and destinations in Asia.
Cruises visiting Seoul docks alongside either the Incheon International Cruise Terminal (Yeonsu-gu, Incheon) or the Inner Port (Jung-gu, Incheon) in the city of Incheon about a 1.5-hour bus ride away from Seoul.
The Incheon International Cruise Terminal is the largest and most popular cruise port serving Seoul.
Seoul is a bustling city where the traditional harmonizes with the modern. It would be best if you explored both sides of Seoul for a balanced and complete experience of the charming Korean city.
From traditional Korean architecture to boutique shops and art galleries, museums, markets and electrifying highly-urbanized neighbourhoods.
Admire the Korean architecture of Cheong Wa Dae (the Blue House) which serves as the official residence of the President of the Republic of Korea. Fulfil your foodie desires at the Gwangjang Market, explore the allure of Bukchon Hanok Village, marvel at the Joseon Dynasty-era Gyeongbokgung Palace and visit Insadong, Seoul’s cultural heart.
With its electrifying nightlife, ultra-modern shopping centres, and celebrity hotspots, Gangnam, Seoul’s most upbeat neighbourhood is an unmissable place to experience on a cruise through Seoul.
In Incheon, visit the memorial commemorating the landing operation led by General Douglas MacArthur in September 1950 that led to the end of the Korean War.
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10. Shanghai, China
The largest city in China, Shanghai, is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. With a population of over 25 million people, Shanghai is one of the most popular and busiest cruise ports and destinations in Asia. The city is a core port of call for cruises in and through Asia.
The city of Shanghai is served by the Shanghai Cruise Port. The port has three (3) international cruise terminals – the Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, the Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal, and the Waigapqiao International Cruise Terminal.
The Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal is the primary cruise port of Shanghai and this is most likely the terminal you will dock on your cruise visit or itinerary to the city. The terminal is located in Paotaiwan Bay at the confluence of the Yangtze and Huangpu Rivers. You’ll need a drive of about 30 minutes to reach Shanghai city centre from the Wusongkou Cruise Port.
Shanghai is a vibrant international metropolis with a lot of charm, attractions and luxury amenities, activities and services.
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is one of the most significant landmarks in Shanghai and perhaps the modern symbol of the city. Explore Nanjing Road, the premier commercial street in China and the world’s longest shopping district (5.47 km or 3.4 miles long) where you can shop to your utmost delight.
Visit the famous Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world and experience a panoramic view of the city from its observation deck – the highest in the world.
The Yu Garden, the Jade Buddha Temple, the Shanghai Museum, the Jin Mao Tower and the Bund are also important points of interest and landmarks to experience in Shanghai.
Conclusion
So, these are the best luxury cruise ports and destinations in Asia for an unforgettable voyage to and through the region.
Cruising through Asia offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you get to explore and appreciate the enthralling culture of the people, the spectacular landscape and natural wonders, historical attractions, bustling cities and lively towns, breathtaking landmarks, great foods, and several recreational and entertainment amenities.
From the Philippines to Singapore, Indonesia and China, I hope this guide to the best luxury cruise ports and destinations in Asia has informed and entertained you about the most fascinating destinations, ports of call and shore activities you can explore, experience and enjoy on a luxury Asian cruise.
To find out the best luxury cruise lines and experience for your Asian voyage, check out The Top 10 Best Luxury Cruise Lines in the World and Best 10 Top Things to Do on a Luxury Cruise.
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