How to Embark on a Singapore River Cruise – Extraordinary Expeditions on Uncharted Waters 

If you are looking for a unique and immersive travel experience, look no further than a Singapore River Cruise. This is a great way to navigate the city at a leisurely pace while enjoying several landmarks in quick succession. You can also take in the beauty of scenic waterways and the enthralling skyline of this world-class city. 

Location 

The Central Region of Singapore is home to the Singapore River. This marvellous waterway flows from Kim Seng Bridge to Marina Bay.  It stretches across 3.2 kilometres and passes through revitalized neighbourhoods like the Central Business District and the Civic District. 
Many years ago, this wonder was once the lifeblood of the city. Turning the clock back to more than 200 years, this attraction was an essential item for trade and business. Due to the river's unsuitable and insufficient berthing facilities and the sharp rise in shipping, the New Harbour eventually developed and expanded.

Several age-old legendary tales have been linked with this destination. They include many tales which have sparked the imaginations from the Orang Laut, who revere a swordfish-shaped rock in the river's mouth to protect them from bad luck when navigating its dangerous waters, to the ongoing mystery surrounding the unsolved Singapore Stone, to the river's revitalization and redevelopment in the 1980s, which represented the will and advancement of contemporary Singapore.

How to get there 

The easiest way to get to Singapore is by air. Direct flights can be found from some of the prominent cities across the world. Changi Airport is where many international flights reach Singapore. Many popular flights like Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates and more can be found heading there. 

From Changi Airport, you can rent a car or book a taxi to reach the Singapore River in around 22 minutes. However, since you are tired after a long flight, it might be best to head out to your accommodation for a rest. You can top up your energy levels and reach the Singapore River the next day. Those who stay at a property like Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre can reach this location within a five-minute drive. So if you are planning to make this one of your main sites of exploration, it is best to book any lodgings nearby.           

Places that you encounter 

There are ample places to feast your eyes along the Singapore River. These include The Esplanade, Raffles Landing Site, Merlion Park and more. All these top sites together offer a fusion of culture, history and contemporary wonders. Visitors should definitely stop by Merlion Park, which houses the renowned lion-headed statue with a fish’s body. It is considered the emblem of Singapore. Do not forget to click some snaps here as it is one of the most iconic places to visit in the country. Other top sites to keep an eye out for include ArtScience Museum, Singapore Flyer, Asian Civilisations Museum and Helix Bridge.

Delicacies to sample and entertainment to indulge in

You cannot miss out on sampling mouthwatering goodies while you are at the Singapore River. The riverfront eateries at Boat Quay and Clarke Quay serve everything from cosmopolitan cuisines to genuine local dishes. Try some Hainanese chicken rice and chilli crab while you are there. If you seek food that is much closer to your home, you can go for burgers, pasta and steak at the international restaurants there.  
Live music shows are part of the entertainment packages available there. The river, ignited by neon lights after sunset, adds to the excitement. You can either unwind with your friends armed with a cocktail at one of the bars dotting the area or take your specific person out to a club and dance your cares away. 

LN9267, RC287 Singapore River Cruise by WaterB 12-05-2024, CC BY-SA 4.0

Things to keep in mind 

If you are planning to head there during the peak season, which falls from June to August, it is best to book your accommodation early. Since a Singapore River cruise is a popular attraction, many 4 star hotels in Singapore nearby tend to fill up quickly. Check the rates and amenities on offer online and make your reservations in advance to avoid disappointment. 

It would be advisable to book your tickets for your Singapore River cruise online. You can check the duration of the journey, the route, the price, the type of boat, the amenities on offer and decide on the booking. Daytime cruises are perfect for a family outing, while evening dinner ventures are ideal for wooing your partner.