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.
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.
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.
Our Malaysia Holidays 3
FAMILIES
2026 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Explore Family Fun in Sabah Borneo with Total Holiday Options
Borneo
Family Fun in Sabah Borneo with Total Holiday Options
9 Nights
Sightseeing
from
$
12,499
per person family share (2 adults & 2 kids 3-9yrs). Flights are additional
Explore Essential Sabah with Total Holiday Options
Borneo
Essential Sabah with Total Holiday Options
9 Nights
Transfers
Meals
from
$
4397
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Explore Flavors of Sarawak with Total Holiday Options
Borneo
Flavors of Sarawak with Total Holiday Options
10 Nights
Transfers
Meals
from
$
4105
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Can't find what you're looking for?
Cruising in Malaysia 8
HOT EXCLUSIVE
XMAS CRUISE
Explore Festive Southeast Asia
Festive Southeast Asia
Your festive escape, beautifully wrapped. Celebrate Christmas onboard Diamond Princess®, exploring Southeast Asia’s highlights — Thailand’s beaches, Malaysia’s heritage cities, and the energy of Vietnam, with plenty of time to unwind at sea.
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!
16 Night Fly, Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
6789
per person share twin
Inside Stateroom
Inside Stateroom
Cruising with
Princess Cruises
Departs 17 Dec 2026
2027 SAILING
HOT EXCLUSIVE
Explore Pearls of Southeast Asia - Feb 2027
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!
16 Night Fly, Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
5599
per person share twin
Inside Stateroom
Inside Stateroom
Cruising with
Princess Cruises
Departs 4 Feb 2027
Explore Bali, Singapore & more
Bali, Singapore & more
A colourful Southeast Asian getaway begins in Singapore, linking vibrant cultures with tropical island charm. Wander the heritage-rich streets of Penang, unwind on the sun-drenched shores of Langkawi, and soak up the lively beach scene of Phuket. With a restful day at sea, this journey delivers a seamless blend of flavour, relaxation and coastal beauty before returning to Singapore.
9 Night Fly, Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
4099
per person share Interior Guarantee Stateroom
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 18 Jan 2027
Explore Singapore, Penang & Phuket
Singapore, Penang & Phuket
A vibrant short escape from Singapore blends tropical beauty with rich culture and relaxed sea days. Visit Penang for its heritage charm and renowned cuisine, then continue to the stunning beaches of Phuket. With time to unwind onboard in between, this journey delivers the perfect mix of island exploration and laid-back relaxation before returning to Singapore.
7 Night Fly, Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
3349
per person share Interior Stateroom
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 10 Mar 2027
Explore Bali, Singapore & Malaysia
Bali, Singapore & Malaysia
A short and vibrant getaway from Singapore combines city energy with cultural charm. Sail to Penang, known for its colourful streets, heritage architecture and incredible food scene, before a relaxing day at sea and a return to Singapore. Perfect for a quick escape filled with flavour, culture and easy cruising.
7 Night Fly, Stay & Cruise Package
from
$
3399
per person share Interior Stateroom
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 28 Jan 2027
ONBOARD CREDIT
HOT EXCLUSIVE
Explore Treasures of Southeast Asia
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
$
2399
per person share twin
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Cruising with
Princess Cruises
Departs 28 Sep 2027
HOT EXCLUSIVE FARES
LAST CABINS
Explore Sun, Sea & Culture
Sun, Sea & Culture
Begin your adventure with a 3-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
$
3739
per person share twin Interior Stateroom
Cruising with
Royal Caribbean
Departs 16 Nov 2026
Explore Asia with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
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 2026/27 Season Sailings
2026 - 2027 Sailings
Natural Beauty & Rich Traditions
Cruising with
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Departs 3 May 2026
Malaysia Tours 11
Meet our Malaysia specialists
Wendy Harrison
House of Travel Rotorua
I am an adventure seeker with a passion for exploring the world and experiencing everything it has to offer. I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting experiences and have a particular love for small group tours and adventures. Whether it's cruising in the Galapagos Islands or exploring new cities, I love the intimacy and camaraderie that comes with traveling in small groups.
When I'm not adventuring, you can often find me at live sports and events, cheering on my favourite teams and soaking up the excitement of the crowd. Or I'm equally at home soaking up the sun during a beautiful island beach holiday.
I also have a love for cruising and have had the opportunity to explore new destinations such as the Mediterranean, the coastlines of Spain and Portugal, the Rhône and Saône Rivers in Southern France, canal boating in England, and cruising across the Tasman. All while enjoying the comforts and amenities of life on the water.
One of my favourite pastimes is people watching whether it's from a cafe in Paris or on the streets of New York. For me, there is nothing more fascinating than observing the unique and diverse cultures of the world and the interactions of the people within them. I'm always seeking out new experiences and adventures, driven by a deep curiosity and a thirst for knowledge and understanding.
Wendy
Charlotte Coles
House of Travel Riccarton
I absolutely love
organising travel and turning every trip into a seamless adventure that’s
perfectly tailored to you. My passion for travel is all about the
details—whether it’s finding the best local spots, securing that perfect
beachfront hotel or ensuring you have unforgettable experiences at every turn.
I’m all about creating stress-free, personalised journeys that suit your style,
making sure every part of your trip is smooth, fun, and unforgettable. With me
on your team, you’re in for a trip that’s as unique as you are!
Charlotte
Laura Simpson
House of Travel Taupo
When I first started in the travel industry, I didn’t even have a passport! Fast forward a few months, and that had all changed – I hit the ground running on my first overseas adventure, and I haven’t stopped since. Whether it’s getting immersed in the local culture, or ticking off bucket list moments, travel has a unique magic that stays with you forever.
I love using my own travel experience to bring that personal, unique touch to your dream holiday, making a seamless experience from the planning stages right through to your return home. From navigating the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong to exploring the USA on a road trip, there’s a world out there just waiting to be discovered.
Let’s have a chat, and make your travel dreams a reality!
Laura
Erica Banks
House of Travel Milford
Originally from the UK and with over 30 years in the Travel Industry I
have been lucky enough to travel to many wonderful places in the world - my
favourite trips have usually included seeing wildlife in their natural habitat.
I love planning trips off the beaten track as well your dream holiday or
cruise. I have been looking after many of my clients for several years
and enjoy getting to know them personally to ensure I can find what will suit
them best
I am a CLIA Cruise Master and have received the HOT Customer Champion award a
couple of times – I appreciate feedback received that clients find me to be
“professional and friendly.
Erica
Customer holidays snaps
Best. Malaysia Holidays. Ever!
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