Penang, Malaysia - Far East Cruises

Head across to mainland Malaysia to experience the unique Orangutan Island Sanctuary.

Embark on a journey that will take you across to mainland Malaysia via the Penang Bridge, said to be the 5th longest bridge in the world.

Your destination is Bukit Merah, a water theme park surrounded by a tranquil 7000 acre lake. This great expanse of water is dotted with smaller islands, one of which is the Orangutan Island Sanctuary.

Upon arrival, enjoy a short boat ride across to the unique 5 acre island. It not only serves as a breeding sanctuary but also a rehabilitation and conservation facility for this endangered species. On the island, a 328 foot protected walkthrough allows you to view the Orangutan up close, as they roam free in their natural habitat. This wonderful experience offers an insight into these captivating primates.

Afterwards, you’ll take a boat ride back to the Bukit Merah Pier, for the return drive to Penang.

During your tour, a light snack box will be provided.

Note: This tour involves around 1½ hours of walking over varying terrain, including steps. Flat, comfortable closed toe shoes are essential. Guests are advised to take insect repellent and sun protection. The boat ride is not exclusive to Cunard.

Travel from the hustle and bustle of Georgetown into the countryside of Penang.

Journey to the outskirts of Georgetown and stop at the delightful Botanical Gardens for a stroll. The Gardens, which are also known as the Waterfall Gardens, were set up by the British in 1884. See many varieties of orchids, cactus, ferns, bamboo plants, flowering trees and shrubs. The Long-tailed Macaque, will also add some excitement to the visit.

Enjoy the coastal views as you drive towards the northern tip of the island to the Butterfly Farm. This walk-in aviary showcases many interesting creatures such as the Water Dragon and giant scorpions as well as 100 species of butterflies.

On the shores of Teluk Bahang, hidden in an eight-acre valley, lies the Tropical Spice Garden. As soon as you step inside, the sights, sounds and scents of nature will overwhelm you. The Garden showcases a collection of over 500 species of flora from around the world, with particular emphasis on tropical herbs and spices. Follow one of the trails or visit one of the Garden Rooms.

Note: Moderate walking is involved during this tour, including some uneven and narrow steps at the Butterfly Farm and Spice Garden.

Discover the true Malaysia and get closer to the sights and scents of Georgetown.

Visit one of the oldest wet markets to see the many types of vegetable, poultry, meat and fish. The fresh produce together with the local spices and herbs sold here help you to get a feel of how the locals do their shopping.

Khoo Kongsi is a magnificent ancestral Chinese Clan House and is one of the most impressive buildings of historical and cultural value in the country. Intricate carvings, statues, paintings and coloured tiles decorate the walls, pillars and roof. Khoo Kongsi is one of Penang’s ‘must-sees.’

Continue with a visit to another jewel of Georgetown, the Baba Nyonya Museum, also known as the Chung Keng Kooi Mansion. Formally a private home, it belonged to a Chinese Kapitan, head of the Hai San secret society. The house has been very well restored and the antique furniture and woodwork are simply stunning.

Note: You are advised to keep a close eye on your personal belongings at the wet market. There are steps at Chung Keng Kooi Mansion and at the Khoo Kongsi Clan House. Comfortable, non-slip walking shoes are recommended. Local currency (Malaysian Ringgit) is required for purchases.

View the colonial buildings, Chinese shop-houses and Little India, all of which make Georgetown a largely intact, heritage jewel.

Your first stop is the Thai Buddhist Temple, which houses the fourth largest reclining Buddha in the world. From here, cross the road to the ornate Burmese Buddhist Temple.

Visit the Penang Museum, housed in the remains of the original Penang Free School. The Museum has a fine collection of old photographs, maps, charts and other historical relics.

Not to be missed is the majestic Khoo Kongsi, one of the most beautiful Chinese Clan houses to be built outside China. The intricate wood and granite carvings, together with 24 stone carved classic examples of filial piety, make this place a ‘must-see’ for visitors to Penang. Walk over the narrow wooden platforms of one of the several Chinese Clan Jetties to appreciate the humble beginnings of the immigrant Chinese.

Note: This tour involves approximately two hours of walking. There are steps at the Khoo Kongsi and the Penang Museum. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Ground at the Temple may be slippery in places and conservative dress should be worn.

The ‘Pearl of the Orient’ offers unspoilt stretches of golden beaches, paddy fields and is steeped in history and tradition.

Visit the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, a stately Chinese dwelling with 18th and 19th century Chinese architecture. In the year 2000, it won the ‘Most Excellent Project’ for the UNESCO Asia Pacific Heritage Awards for Culture Heritage Conservation.

Continue onto the colourful Thai Buddhist Temple, which houses the fourth largest Reclining Buddha in the world, measuring 108 feet, before stopping at the ornate Burmese Buddhist Temple.

An international buffet luncheon will be served, before heading towards the northern tip of the island to the Butterfly Farm. Set in beautiful landscaped gardens, this walk-in aviary features over 100 species of live butterflies, as well as Water Dragons and giant scorpions.

Continue past tropical countryside and paddy fields that make up the beautiful scenery of the island. Pause awhile at the local fruit and spice stall for a first-hand look at the many local fruits and spices grown on this island.

Round off your tour at the Baba Nyonya Mansion, also known as the Chung Keng Kooi Mansion, previously a private home belonging to a Chinese Capitan, who was the head of the Hai San secret society.

Note: There is approximately 1½ hours of walking during this tour including some uneven and narrow steps at the Butterfly Farm. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Ground at the Temple may be slippery in places. Conservative dress is required for visiting the Temple.