Getting to Sarawak by Sea, Express Boats & River Cruises

Getting around - By Sea

You can reach Kuching by boat from Sarikei and Sibu once daily. This is actually faster than taking the bus. If coming from the east by boat, the jetty is a bit of distance from town. From the ferry, walk out to the main road and take CCL bus #19 (RM0.60). Major ports are serviced by ships from the Peninsula although are more catered for cargo purposes. Boats are a major form of transportation because of the states' vast network of rivers.

o     By Express Boats (Kuching to Sibu)

Express Bahagia, service departs daily at 8.30 am. For 4 hours ride, it costs an estimate of RM 40. There is no longer a ticket office in central Kuching. Tickets are sold at the wharf in Pending.

You are advised to get to the jetty 30 mins before departure. In Sibu, there is extensive network of boat services along the Rejang and Igan Rivers. These fast, comfortable and reliable crafts connect Sibu with the towns and villages of the Upper Rajang, and even with Kuching, Sarikei and Bintangor.

o     By Sampans (known locally as Tambangs)

To get across a river, do take one of the small ferries that connect the riverside villages to the town. Place the fare (30 cents) on the seat as you leave. Hiring a sampan (RM 20-25 per hour) is a great way to see the river and the waterfront villages.

o     By River Cruises

Gaya Holidays, 37 Main Bazaar (Tel: 415476/016-8666484), offers river cruises and excursions in high-powered pontoon boats. Rates ranging from RM 30 per person for 1 hour (Min 4 persons).