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Malaysia

Bold bites, big sights and endless colour

A melting pot of culture, nature and mouthwatering flavour

Malaysia is a fascinating fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian and Indigenous cultures, making every encounter a window into something new. Everyone you meet brings a little of their story to your holiday – and that diversity runs through everything.

It’s also a country of contrasts. In Kuala Lumpur, sleek skyscrapers and mega malls sit side by side with bustling night markets and fragrant street food stalls. In Penang, colonial-era buildings frame streets that pulse with bold modern art and creativity.

Nature lovers are spoiled for choice – hike through Borneo’s lush rainforests, spot orangutans in the wild, or sink into the golden sands of Langkawi. And the food? It’s the ultimate cultural mash-up – from spicy laksa and rich beef rendang to buttery roti canai, smoky satay and hand-pulled noodles.

Chase waterfalls, temple-hop, snorkel turquoise bays, explore centuries of history or simply follow your nose to the next hawker stall – Malaysia is an adventure for all your senses.

Let our Malaysia specialists plan your perfect Asian escape.

Flight time

The flight from Auckland to Malaysia takes roughly 11 hours nonstop. It takes a while to get there but the sights and sounds of this vibrant destination will soon have you ready for action.

Best time to go

Malaysia is a year-round destination, but December–February is best for the west coast, March–May for wildlife and beaches, June–September for Kuala Lumpur and diving, and October–November for Melaka and the Cameron Highlands.

Time difference

Malaysia is 4–5 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving in NZ. It won't take too long to get your body on to local time.

Bohey Dulang Island in Malaysia. Image Credit: Nora Carol Photography

Langkawi Sky Bridge in Malaysia. Image Credit: Unsplash

Sea boats in Malaysia. Image Credit: Getty

Cruising in Malaysia 6

HOT EXCLUSIVE

2027 SAILING

Pearls of Southeast Asia - Feb 2027

Set sail roundtrip from Singapore onboard Sapphire Princess®. Explore the vibrant cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia, unwind on Thailand’s tropical shores, and discover Malaysia’s rich heritage in Penang and Kuala Lumpur, with relaxing sea days in between.

Enjoy Princess signature features such as Movies Under the Stars & the Lotus Spa, experience new Broadway-style shows, and get the best sleep at sea with the scientifically designed Princess Luxury Bed!

14 Night Cruise

from

$ 2985

per person share twin
Inside Stateroom

Cruising with Princess Cruises

Departs 6 Feb 2027

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NEW CRUISE

ONBOARD CREDIT

Treasures of Southeast Asia

Sail from Singapore to Fremantle on Sapphire Princess and uncover the best of Southeast Asia along the way. Soak up Bali’s exotic appeal, wander the colonial streets of Penang’s beautifully preserved George Town, and enjoy laid-back days at sea as you cruise south toward Western Australia. A relaxing journey that blends vibrant culture, warm island charm and easy holiday vibes from start to finish.

Click here to view full itinerary and pricing details

Enjoy Princess signature features such as Movies Under the Stars & the Lotus Spa, experience new Broadway-style shows, and get the best sleep at sea with the scientifically designed Princess Luxury Bed.

12 Night Cruise

from

$ 2179

per person share twin
Interior Stateroom

Cruising with Princess Cruises

Departs 28 Sep 2027

Explore

Kek Lok Si Temple Located In Penang, Malaysia

Sun, Sea & Culture

Begin your adventure with a 2-night stay in Singapore, including daily breakfast. Then, set sail from Singapore on an unforgettable journey through Southeast Asia’s most captivating destinations. Discover the cultural charm of Penang, relax on the pristine beaches of Langkawi, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Phuket. With serene days at sea and exciting ports of call, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation—concluding back in Singapore.

8 Night Fly Stay Cruise Package

from

$ 3599

per person share twin Interior Stateroom

Cruising with Royal Caribbean

Departs 16 Nov 2026

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Singapore, Malaysia & Thailand

Soak up Southeast Asia’s vibrant flavours on a round-trip voyage from Singapore. Visit the colourful streets of Penang, unwind on Langkawi’s pristine shores, and enjoy the tropical charm of Phuket. With relaxed sea days and rich cultural stops, this itinerary blends relaxation, cuisine, and island beauty into one effortless escape back to Singapore.

5 Night Cruise Package

from

$ 1039

per person share twin
Interior Stateroom
Flights Additional

Cruising with Royal Caribbean

Departs 21 Mar 2027

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Asia with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Discover the wonders of Asia with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Glide between vibrant capitals, tranquil islands, and stunning natural landscapes aboard your luxurious superyacht. Explore bustling markets, ancient temples, and historic castles, or sail through serene waters like Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay and Japan’s cherry blossom–framed rivers. Every journey blends the region’s rich traditions and diverse cultures with the comfort and service that define The Ritz-Carlton experience.

View Asia Early 2026 Season Sailings
View Asia 2026/27 Season Sailings

2026 - 2027 Sailings

Natural Beauty & Rich Traditions

Cruising with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Departs 8 Feb 2026

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ONBOARD CREDIT

Viking World Cruise 2027

Adventure from the tropics to temperate wonders on this sweeping 141-night Viking World Cruise aboard the elegant Viking Sky, starting in Florida and ending in Greenwich. Explore 31 countries across the Caribbean, South Pacific, Asia, Africa, and Europe—each stop offering rich culture, history, and scenery at every turn. Enjoy immersive overnight stays, curated excursions, and expert-led enrichment activities that bring each destination to life. With Viking’s signature all-verandah staterooms, relaxing public spaces, and thoughtful inclusions like cultural performances and spa access, this is world exploration reimagined in comfort and ease. It’s an unforgettable global story, and you’re at the helm.

141 night World Cruise

Included Business Class Airfare*

from

$ 117,495

AUD

per person share twin
Veranda Stateroom

Cruising with Viking Cruises

Departs 28 Dec 2027

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Meet our Malaysia specialists

Rachel Molloy

House of Travel Hamilton East

Having been in the travel industry for 14 years, it's safe to say travel is my biggest passion. I love turning up somewhere not knowing what to expect and being delighted by both the differences in culture, cuisine and customs. Part way through my career I took a year off and spent this travelling extensively through central America, Asia and Europe. I'm now fortunate enough to be able to pass on the knowledge I've gained over the years and work with my clients to bring their travel dreams to fruition.

Rachel

Sarah Newton

House of Travel Albany

Life is a collection of moments and memories.

Both planning your travel and the journey itself should be enjoyable. I find joy in working with travellers to build holidays that are perfect for them.

Sarah

Rosie Grimwood

House of Travel Kapiti Coast

Embarking on a journey, whether it's a leisurely escape or an adventurous expedition, requires meticulous planning and a touch of expertise to transform travel into unforgettable experiences. That's where I come in. As your travel consultant, I don't just see it as a job; it's a passion that drives me to curate journeys tailored to your desires and aspirations. Whether you crave the adrenaline rush of scuba diving in Thailand, the thrill of jungle treks in Costa Rica, the freedom of backpacking through Asia, or relaxing on a white sandy beach, I am here to help create the perfect itinerary for you.

Rosie