Muara

Muara Port Guide

Muara, Brunei Cruise Port Guide

Welcome to Muara, the serene maritime gateway to the Sultanate of Brunei on the northern coast of Borneo. Cruising visitors arriving with major cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and Holland America Line are treated to a peaceful destination rich in Islamic heritage and natural beauty.

Known for its tranquil atmosphere, opulent royal architecture, and pristine rainforests, this port offers travelers a fascinating glimpse into one of Southeast Asia's most unique nations.


Key Muara Port Information

Top Attractions & Excursions

A highlight of any shore excursion is the stunning Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, located in the heart of the capital about 30 minutes from port, renowned for its gold-leaf dome and surrounding lagoon.

Visitors should also explore Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, the country's largest mosque, which features 29 magnificent gold domes and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Other essential stops include Kampong Ayer, a historic centuries-old water village built entirely on stilts over the river, and the Royal Regalia Museum, home to royal crowns, ceremonial armor, and opulent parade chariots.

Last updated on November 8, 2026

Nearby Cities & Attractions

The capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan lies approximately 25 kilometers (30 minutes) southwest of the port, hosting the country's primary cultural and historic attractions.

Nature enthusiasts can take day excursions to Ulu Temburong National Park, an unspoiled tropical rainforest accessible via a scenic riverboat journey of roughly 1.5 to 2 hours each way.

For a quick excursion close to the dock, Muara Beach is located just a 10-minute drive away, offering quiet sandy shores and peaceful coastal views.

Last updated on November 8, 2026

Port Location

The cruise pier in Muara is situated in a commercial port zone approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) northeast of downtown Bandar Seri Begawan. Cruise ships dock alongside the industrial wharf, making tender boats unnecessary for most visits.

The terminal area has limited permanent amenities, though basic tourist welcome booths and temporary stalls are usually set up on ship days. Passengers typically rely on cruise line shore excursions, arranged buses, or taxis to travel to downtown attractions.

Last updated on November 8, 2026

Local Currency

The official local currency is the Brunei Dollar (BND), which is officially pegged at a 1:1 exchange rate with the Singapore Dollar (SGD); Singaporean bank notes are widely accepted across Brunei. US Dollars and Euros are rarely accepted for routine transactions.

Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, upscale restaurants, and department stores in the capital, but cash is necessary for local markets, small shops, and water taxis. ATMs and money changers are readily available in central city shopping centers.

Last updated on November 8, 2026

Safety Considerations

Brunei is recognized as one of the safest cruise destinations in Asia, maintaining an exceptionally low crime rate and a welcoming environment for tourists. Violent crime is extremely rare, and standard safety precautions against petty theft in crowded areas are sufficient.

Visitors should remain mindful of local customs and Islamic laws by dressing conservatively, covering shoulders and knees in public places, and observing quiet respect when visiting religious sites.

Last updated on November 8, 2026

Weather & Climate

Muara experiences a warm, humid tropical rainforest climate year-round, with average daily temperatures ranging between 24°C and 32°C (75°F to 90°F). Rain showers can occur at any time of year, with the heaviest rainfall taking place during the monsoon period between October and January.

Cruise passengers should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a light raincoat or umbrella, and modest attire suitable for mosque visits.

Last updated on November 8, 2026

Getting Around

Because public transport options at the industrial port are sparse, most cruise passengers opt for organized tour buses or pre-arranged private transfers. Taxis are available near the dock entrance, though fares should be agreed upon before departure as meters are rarely used.

In the capital city, hiring a Kampong Ayer Water Taxi provides a quick and affordable way to cross the river and tour the stilt village. Travelers with mobile connectivity can also utilize Dart Brunei, the local ride-hailing service.

Last updated on November 8, 2026

Shopping

Shopping in Brunei ranges from traditional open-air markets to modern air-conditioned shopping centers. Visitors interested in local culture can visit Tamu Kianggeh, a bustling riverfront market offering handcrafted baskets, local snacks, and traditional remedies.

For modern retail and souvenirs, The Mall Gadong provides broad options including electronics, textiles, and local handicrafts. Popular items to take home include hand-woven songket fabrics, silver jewelry, and traditional Malay woodwork.

Last updated on November 8, 2026

Shore Excursions & Tours

Private Bandar by Night Tour

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★ 5.0 (12)

On this relaxing evening tour, enjoy a boat ride along the river to see the famed Water Village and visit a local house for light refreshments. You will have photo opportunities at two main mosques and the entrance to His Majesty's palace. The evening concludes with food sampling at the Gadong night market, the perfect place for an introduction to Brunei's local delicacies.

Private Proboscis Monkey, Fireflies & Water Village Tour

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★ 5.0 (7)

On this relaxing early evening boat ride, you will visit a local house for light refreshments before cruising under mangrove trees to look for proboscis monkeys. If the weather permits, you will witness a breathtaking sunset over the unique scenery of the forest. As darkness falls, the cruise continues through the mangroves in search of glittering fireflies.

Full Day Trip of Brunei Ulu Temburong National Park including Canopy Walk

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★ 5.0 (5)

Immerse yourself in the dense rainforest of Ulu Temburong National Park, a protected environment preserved for scientific research. You can ascend 160 feet on a canopy walk, visit a waterfall for a doctor fish foot treatment, and ride a water tube if levels allow. This day excursion includes hotel pickup and transfers via speedboat and longboat for a unique experience of life outside tourist hotspots.

Brunei Full Day City Tour including Tamu Kianggeh, Royal Regalia & Kampung Ayer

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★ 5.0 (4)

This comprehensive full-day tour offers a leisurely exploration of Brunei's highlights, including the Royal Regalia and the world's largest residential palace. You will visit two magnificent mosques, the Malay Technology Museum, and the "Venice of the East," Kampong Ayer, for a house visit with traditional refreshments. The day includes lunch at a local restaurant and stops at the open-air Tamu Kianggeh market and the luxurious Empire Hotel.

Private Proboscis Monkey Water Village and Night Tour

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★ 5.0 (4)

On this combination tour, you will explore the traditional Kampong Ayer before proceeding to the natural mangroves in search of endangered Proboscis Monkeys. You will enjoy photo stops at the two main mosques of Brunei to capture their architectural beauty. The tour concludes at the Gadong night market, which is the perfect place to sample local delicacies and cuisine.

Brunei By Night Private Tour & Traditional Dinner

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★ 5.0 (4)

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with a local guide that begins with dinner and a panoramic drive across the RIPAS Bridge. You will view the Water Village at night, stop for photos at the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, and drive past the Sultan’s palace. The evening ends at the Gadong night market, where you can browse vegetables and fruits or taste local delicacies at your own expense.

Brunei Half Day City Tour with Royal Regalia, Istana Nurul Iman & Kampung Ayer

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★ 5.0 (3)

Designed for those with limited time, this four-hour tour features the city's key highlights, including the Royal Regalia and the Malay Technology Museum. You will visit the famous Kampong Ayer water village and two of Southeast Asia's most beautiful mosques. The itinerary also includes photo stops at the world's largest residential palace and the Old Palace.

Customized Brunei Experience

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★ 5.0 (3)

Escape the normal tourist trail and experience authentic rural culture on this day trip to visit the indigenous peoples of Brunei. You will visit locations where the Dusun, Kedayan, Tutong, and Iban tribes keep old traditions alive despite modern lifestyles. Activities depend on the day but may include foraging, rattan weaving, tribal dances, or tasting honey directly from the hive.

Brunei Half Day City Tour with Royal Regalia & Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque

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★ 5.0 (2)

Explore Brunei’s top sights on a half-day tour of Bandar Seri Begawan that focuses on royal landmarks and religious architecture. You will visit the Royal Regalia museum, the Malay Technology Museum, and the massive Kampong Ayer water village. The tour includes visits to two magnificent mosques and photo stops at the Sultan's residential palace and the Old Palace.

Indigenous Home Cooking Class with Market Tour

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★ 5.0 (1)

Brunei is a nation of foodies with a diverse cuisine, but this tour focuses on traditional indigenous recipes that are often overlooked. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about, cook, and enjoy eating real local food that is distinct to this region. This experience is perfect for those who want to go beyond the standard Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences found elsewhere.

Brunei Mangrove River Safari

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★ 5.0 (1)

Embark on an unforgettable open-deck boat cruise along the Brunei River, offering views of the modern capital and the serene Kampong Ayer. You will explore the mangrove world to spot native marine life and rare, endangered proboscis monkeys without trekking far into the jungle. This guided tour includes hotel pickup and a visit to a local stilt house for refreshments.

Private Bandar Delight and Water Village Tour

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★ 5.0 (1)

This brief tour features photo stops at the main places of interest in Brunei to capture the city's highlights. You will enjoy a boat ride along the historical Water Village that includes a visit to a local house. The experience is topped off with a chance to taste local food at the popular Gadong Night Market.

Private Bandar Highlight Tour

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★ 5.0 (1)

This city tour gives you an excellent introduction to Brunei Darussalam and its capital. You will drive along Bandar Seri Begawan to see the layout of the city and its surroundings. The schedule includes visits to interesting local places with opportunities for photos at key landmarks.

Private Proboscis Monkey Tour

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★ 4.9 (17)

On this popular leisure boat ride, you will cruise past the nostalgic Water Village. The boat will make stops under natural mangrove trees and swamps to look out for birds and other wildlife. Keep your eyes open for the rare and endangered proboscis monkeys that are only found on Borneo Island.

Private Bandar Heritage & Water Village Tour

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★ 4.9 (16)

This recommended comprehensive full-day tour provides deep insight into the tiny nation of Brunei. It combines a city tour with an exploration of the Water Village for a complete cultural experience. You will visit most of the country's interesting places and enjoy ample photo opportunities throughout the day.

Private Proboscis Monkey & Water Village Tour

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★ 4.8 (4)

On this recommended combination tour, you will take a boat ride through natural mangroves to search for endangered Proboscis Monkeys. You will pass along the traditional Kampong Ayer to see the water village lifestyle firsthand. The tour includes a visit to a local house where you can enjoy light refreshments.

Private Bandar Highlight & Water Village Tour

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★ 4.6 (19)

This popular half-day city tour gives you a comprehensive introduction to Brunei's culture, tradition, and history. You will drive through the city to visit some of the most interesting places in Brunei Darussalam. The itinerary allows for multiple photo stop opportunities to capture the local sights.

Private Bandar Highlight, Water Village & Night Tour

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★ 3.0 (2)

This recommended full-day tour offers a deep insight into the tiny nation with visits to most of its interesting places. You will enjoy a comprehensive look at Brunei's history, culture, and heritage, along with its nightlife. The schedule is packed with photo opportunities to ensure you capture the best of the country.

Visiting Muara Cruise Deals

LOWEST PRICE EVER
14 Night Hong Kong to Singapore cruise
December 9, 2026
14 Night East Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.46/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Hong Kong → Coron → Boracay → Puerto Princesa → Muara → Ho Chi Minh → Bangkok → Ko Samui → Singapore
$2,879
$206 per day
Balcony
14 Night Hong Kong to Singapore cruise
January 3, 2027
14 Night East Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.38/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Hong Kong → Coron → Boracay → Puerto Princesa → Kota Kinabalu → Muara → Ho Chi Minh → Bangkok → Ko Samui → Singapore
$4,419
$316 per day
Suite
LOWEST PRICE EVER
11 Night Singapore to Hong Kong cruise
December 11, 2027
Regent Seven Seas Seven Seas Explorer
S M L XL
Singapore → Singapore → Kota Kinabalu → Muara → Puerto Princesa → Coron → Boracay → Manila → Hong Kong
$5,025
$457 per day
Inside
12 Night Hong Kong to Singapore cruise
January 3, 2028
12 Night Southeast Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.46/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Hong Kong → Coron → Puerto Princesa → Kota Kinabalu → Muara → Ho Chi Minh → Bangkok → Ko Samui → Singapore
$2,199
$183 per day
Outside
13 Night Singapore to Hong Kong cruise
January 15, 2028
13 Night Southeast Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.42/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Singapore → Ko Samui → Bangkok → Ho Chi Minh → Muara → Kota Kinabalu → Puerto Princesa → Coron → Hong Kong → Hong Kong
$4,209
$324 per day
Suite

Upcoming Cruises to Muara Cruise Deals

LOWEST PRICE EVER
14 Night Hong Kong to Singapore cruise
December 9, 2026
14 Night East Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.46/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Hong Kong → Coron → Boracay → Puerto Princesa → Muara → Ho Chi Minh → Bangkok → Ko Samui → Singapore
$2,879
$206 per day
Balcony
14 Night Hong Kong to Singapore cruise
January 3, 2027
14 Night East Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.38/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Hong Kong → Coron → Boracay → Puerto Princesa → Kota Kinabalu → Muara → Ho Chi Minh → Bangkok → Ko Samui → Singapore
$4,419
$316 per day
Suite
139 Night San Diego to Vancouver cruise
January 8, 2027
Crystal Serenity
S M L XL
San Diego → Cabo San Lucas → Mazatlan → Puerto Vallarta → Acajutla → Playa Flamingo → Puntarenas → Manta → Guayaquil → Salaverry → Lima → Easter Island → Pitcairn Island → Rangiroa → Fakarava → Huahine → Papeete → Moorea → Raiatea → Bora Bora → Pago Pago → Apia → Suva → Lautoka → Champagne Bay → Port-Vila → Mystery Island → Lifou → Noumea → Bay of Islands → Auckland → Tauranga → Napier → Wellington → Christchurch → Dunedin → Melbourne → Sydney, Australia → Newcastle, Australia → Brisbane → Airlie Beach → Cairns → Alotau → Port Moresby → Darwin → Komodo Island → Bali → Semarang → Singapore → Ko Samui → Bangkok → Ko Kood → Phu Quoc → Ho Chi Minh → Muara → Kota Kinabalu → Boracay → Manila → Hong Kong → Xiamen → Shanghai → Busan → Hiroshima → Beppu → Wakayama → Nagoya → Tokyo → Hitachinaka → Sendai → Hakodate → Aomori → Kushiro → Kodiak → Seward → Skagway → Icy Strait Point → Sitka → Wrangell → Vancouver
$86,000
$619 per day
Balcony
LOWEST PRICE EVER
11 Night Bangkok to Singapore cruise
January 31, 2027
Oceania Nautica
S M L XL
Bangkok → Sihanoukville → Nha Trang → Coron → Puerto Princesa → Kota Kinabalu → Muara → Singapore → Singapore
$8,299
$754 per day
Suite
12 Night Hong Kong to Singapore cruise
January 28, 2027
12 Night East Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.42/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Hong Kong → Coron → Puerto Princesa → Kota Kinabalu → Muara → Ho Chi Minh → Bangkok → Ko Samui → Singapore
$5,259
$438 per day
Suite

Ships in Port Schedule

Map of Muara port area
Muara port location
Disney ship
Viking Ocean Cruises ship
© OpenStreetMap · © ESA WorldCover 2021

Showing 2 ships in the area

No ships scheduled in port today.

Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Muara

Sailings visiting Muara during the the peak season of fall are considerably more expensive than the the low season of winter. Overall Muara is moderately expensive as a port of call. Check the chart below for the average cost per day by month.

Jan
$375
Feb
$208
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
$584
Nov
$620
Dec
$563

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