Muara

Muara Port Guide

Muara, Brunei Cruise Port Guide

Welcome to Muara, the serene gateway to the opulent Sultanate of Brunei on the tropical island of Borneo.

Frequently visited by major cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Oceania Cruises, this unique destination offers travelers a glimpse into rich Islamic heritage and pristine rainforests.

Cruisers choose this stop for its peaceful atmosphere, magnificent golden-domed mosques, and fascinating water villages, making it a memorable highlight on Southeast Asian voyages.


Shore Excursions & Tours

Private Bandar by Night Tour

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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.

Key Muara Port Information

Top Attractions & Excursions

A short 30-minute drive brings visitors to Bandar Seri Begawan, home to the breathtaking Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque featuring a pure gold dome set on an artificial lagoon.

Cruisers can explore Kampong Ayer, the world's largest water village, where thousands of residents live in stilted homes connected by wooden footbridges above the river.

The impressive Royal Regalia Museum showcases the Sultan's lavish coronation crafts, crowns, and royal chariots.

Nature enthusiasts can take a proboscis monkey river safari through nearby mangrove forests to spot rare wildlife in their natural habitat.

Last updated on August 17, 2026

Nearby Cities & Attractions

The chief destination for visitors is the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan, located about 28 kilometers (17 miles) southwest of the port and reachable in 30 to 40 minutes.

Eco-adventurers often head toward Ulu Temburong National Park, a pristine rainforest region accessible via a combined speedboat and longboat journey taking roughly two hours each way.

For a quick escape near the ship, Muara Beach lies just 10 minutes away, offering a tranquil spot for a relaxing coastal walk.

Last updated on August 17, 2026

Port Location

The cruise port is located at Muara Port, roughly 28 kilometers northeast of downtown Bandar Seri Begawan.

Cruise ships dock directly along commercial piers, meaning tendering is rarely required.

Because the port facility is primarily industrial with very few tourist amenities, shuttle buses, taxis, or organized tours are necessary to reach the main sights.

Last updated on August 17, 2026

Local Currency

The local currency is the Brunei Dollar (BND), which is pegged at a 1:1 ratio with the Singapore Dollar (SGD); SGD notes are widely accepted across Brunei.

US Dollars and Euros are not generally accepted for retail transactions, though major credit cards work at larger hotels and modern shopping centers.

ATMs and currency exchanges are readily available in downtown Bandar Seri Begawan, but carrying local cash is recommended for water taxis, street stalls, and small vendors.

Last updated on August 17, 2026

Safety Considerations

Brunei is exceptionally safe with one of the lowest crime rates in Southeast Asia, making independent exploration very low-risk.

Visitors should respect local Islamic laws and customs by dressing modestly, covering shoulders and knees when visiting public spaces and religious sites.

Note that public alcohol consumption is prohibited across the country, and many businesses close on Friday afternoons between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM for prayers.

Last updated on August 17, 2026

Weather & Climate

Muara experiences a tropical rainforest climate that is warm, humid, and equatorial year-round.

Average daily temperatures range between 24°C and 32°C (75°F to 90°F), accompanied by high humidity levels.

Rain showers can occur at any time, with heavier monsoonal rainfall typically seen from October to January, so carrying rain gear, sunscreen, and breathable clothing is advisable.

Last updated on August 17, 2026

Getting Around

Taxis are limited at the port entrance, making pre-booked tours or an organized shore excursion the most reliable transport option.

The Dart app functions as Brunei's local ride-hailing service and provides an efficient way to book rides if you have cellular data.

Public buses operate between Muara town and central Bandar Seri Begawan, though routes can be slow and schedules are infrequent for visitors on tight cruise itineraries.

Last updated on August 17, 2026

Shopping

The best shopping spots are concentrated in Bandar Seri Begawan, particularly at The Mall Gadong or the vibrant Tamu Kianggeh outdoor market.

Popular souvenirs include hand-woven kain tenunan textiles, silver crafts, brass ornaments, and traditional local snacks like shrimp crackers.

Fixed pricing applies in modern shopping malls, whereas polite bargaining is acceptable at open-air market stalls.

Last updated on August 17, 2026

Visiting Muara Cruise Deals

12 Night Hong Kong to Singapore cruise
January 3, 2028
12 Night Southeast Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.37/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Hong Kong Coron Puerto Princesa Kota Kinabalu Muara Ho Chi Minh Bangkok Ko Samui Singapore
$2,009
$167 per day
Inside
13 Night Singapore to Hong Kong cruise
January 15, 2028
13 Night Southeast Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.40/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Singapore Ko Samui Bangkok Ho Chi Minh Muara Kota Kinabalu Puerto Princesa Coron Hong Kong Hong Kong
$2,239
$172 per day
Inside
12 Night Hong Kong to Singapore cruise
January 28, 2028
12 Night Southeast Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.47/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Hong Kong Coron Puerto Princesa Kota Kinabalu Muara Ho Chi Minh Bangkok Ko Samui Singapore
$2,139
$178 per day
Inside
13 Night Singapore to Hong Kong cruise
February 9, 2028
13 Night Southeast Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.60/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Singapore Ko Samui Bangkok Ho Chi Minh Muara Kota Kinabalu Puerto Princesa Coron Hong Kong Hong Kong
$2,359
$181 per day
Inside
13 Night Singapore to Hong Kong cruise
December 21, 2027
13 Night Southeast Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.44/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Singapore Ko Samui Bangkok Ho Chi Minh Muara Kota Kinabalu Puerto Princesa Coron Hong Kong Hong Kong
$2,399
$185 per day
Inside

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™ (4.42/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Hong Kong Coron Boracay Puerto Princesa Muara Ho Chi Minh Bangkok Ko Samui Singapore
$3,109
$222 per day
Outside
PRICE DROP
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
$3,189
$228 per day
Inside
12 Night Hong Kong to Singapore cruise
January 28, 2027
12 Night East Asia Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.47/5)
Norwegian Jade
S M L XL
Hong Kong Coron Puerto Princesa Kota Kinabalu Muara Ho Chi Minh Bangkok Ko Samui Singapore
$3,039
$253 per day
Inside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
10 Night Bangkok to Singapore cruise
November 13, 2026
Oceania Nautica
S M L XL
Bangkok Ko Samui Nha Trang Kota Kinabalu Muara Singapore Singapore
$3,330
$333 per day
Inside
15 Night Hong Kong to Singapore cruise
December 21, 2026
15 Night Legends of Jade Cruise
CruiseScore™ (5.00/5)
Oceania Nautica
S M L XL
Hong Kong Hanoi, Vietnam Sanya Da Nang Nha Trang Coron Boracay Puerto Princesa Kota Kinabalu Muara Singapore Singapore
$6,549
$437 per day
Inside

Ships in Port Schedule

Map of Muara port area
Muara port location
Disney ship

Showing 1 ship in the area

No ships scheduled in port today.

Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Muara

Overall cruises that visit Muara are fairly expensive compared to other itineraries. Cruises visiting Muara during the the peak season of spring are considerably more expensive than the the low season of winter. Look at the graph below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$173
Feb
$181
Mar
$642
Apr
$785
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
$185

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