The Melaka River Cruise Wiki

Last updated on October 14th, 2023 at 06:14 am

In this Melaka River Cruise wiki, you’ll learn all you need to know about one of the top attractions in the Historical City.

Introduction

The Melaka River Cruise is a popular tourist attraction in Malacca, Malaysia. It is a 45-minute cruise, taking passengers along the Melaka River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The cruise affords passengers a rare opportunity to see the city’s historical landmarks and learn about its rich history and culture.

The cruise starts at the Melaka River Cruise Jetty and takes passengers past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Among them are the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, the Christ Church, and the Stadthuys.

Passengers can also feast their eyes on traditional Malay houses and temples along the riverbank.

The cruise also passes by the Melaka Sultanate Palace, once the home of the Sultans of Malacca. The palace is now a museum that showcases a collection of artifacts from the Malacca Sultanate era.

The Melaka River Cruise is a great way to learn about the history and culture of Malacca. The cruise is also a relaxing and enjoyable way to see the city’s sights.

Melaka River Cruise History

The Melaka River Cruise was launched in 2006 by the Melaka Historic City Council (MBMB) to promote tourism in the city. The cruise was an immediate success and has since become one of Melaka’s most popular tourist attractions.

In addition to its historical significance, the Melaka River Cruise is an important economic driver for the city. The cruise employs hundreds of people and generates millions of dollars in revenue each year.

The Melaka River Cruise is a testament to the city’s rich history and culture. It is also a reminder of the importance of tourism to the city’s economy.

Melaka River History

The historic Melaka River needs no introduction. It is steeped in history and is related to commerce and war.

In the 15th century, during the heyday of the Melaka Sultanate, it used to be an important transportation channel for traders.

The Portuguese used the Melaka River to conquer the historical city in the 16th century.

The river is 40 kilometres long, stretching from Negeri Sembilan to the Straits of Melaka.

Time was when the river was in a sorry state, a convenient dumping ground for many.

However, the state government realised its potential as a tourist attraction and cleaned it up.

The Melaka River Cruise was then introduced, and the historic river was reborn.

The Melaka River Cruise Experience

On the river cruise, you’ll get to enjoy a fascinating stretch of the river.

There must be at least 8 passengers before the boat sets off.

The ride lasts from 30 to 45 minutes.

The cruise runs until 10 pm. So, you can always catch a late cruise after a good dinner.

There’s a recorded audio narration to help you appreciate the cruise.

You’ll get to feast your eyes on the following attractions during the 9-kilometer trip

• Red Building
• Stadhuys
• Jonker Street
• Water Wheel
• Kampung Ulu Mosque
• Church of St. Francis Xavier
• Kampung Morten

Historical Bridges

Tan Kim Seng Bridge

Among the bridges steeped in history, you’ll pass during the cruise include the Tan Kim Seng Bridge built in 1862.

Chan Koon Cheng Bridge

Then there’s the Chan Koon Cheng Bridge first built in 1908 and modernized in 1930.

Kampung Jawa Bridge

You’ll also get to pass the Kampung Jawa Bridge, first constructed in 1714.

Pasar Bridge

This bridge has existed since the 16th century and connects Kampung Ulu to the old Central Market.

Old Bus Station Bridge

Eye-catching arches adorn this bridge which was once a plain-looking steel structure. It now connects to the newly-relocated bus station.

Hang Jebat Bridge

This bridge had a makeover in 2018 and its foundation employs a unique styrofoam technology.

Best Time to Take the Cruise

The best time to take the ride would be after sunset. The weather will be cooler. You get to enjoy a colorful sight.

The bridges and buildings you pass will be colorfully lighted.

As darkness gathers, people will start gathering along the river bank for walks, drinks, and meals and most of them will wave at you if you make the move.

Where to Take the Cruise

There are a few embarkation points for the cruise.

If you’re driving, you’re advised to catch the cruise at the Taman Rempah jetty. There’s a spacious parking area here and you won’t have to worry about going in circles to find a parking space.

Melaka River Cruise Ticket

River cruise tickets can be purchased at the Spice Garden Jetty or the Melaka River Square Jetty.

Ticket prices differ for local and foreign tourists.

Local tourists with MyKad are charged RM25 (adults) and RM15 for children between 2 and 12 years old.

Foreign tourists are charged RM30 (adults) and RM25 for children between 2 and 12 years old.

Malaysian senior citizens above 60 years old are charged RM20.

Malaysian senior citizens above 70 years old are charged RM10.

Ticket prices are inclusive of insurance.

Note: Boats will not operate if the weather is unfavorable (thunderstorm etc) or if the river water level is unusually high.

In such a case no refund is available for purchased tickets. But you can use them on another day.

This Melaka River Cruise Wiki will be updated as and when we discover useful information relating to it.