The Melaka River and Coastal Development Corporation (PPSPM) founded the Melaka River Cruise with the idea to provide a 360-degree immersive experience to local and international tourists. It is a 45-minute cruise covering Melaka’s heritage, culture, myths, legends and landscape.

In the 15th Century, during the Melaka Sultanate era, the Melaka River was a bustling and strategically vital trade route. Earning the name of “The Venice of the East”, the cruise follows the path of this historical waterway.

Address

Perbadanan Pembangunan Sungai Dan Pantai Melaka (PPSPM)

Dataran Pengkalan Rama, Pengkalan Rama Pantai, 75100 Melaka.

The nearest top tourist spot is the Jonker Street night market, a bustling open-air weekend market. From here, you can proceed to the Melaka River Cruise, as evening and night tours intensify the beauty of Melaka with the illuminated riverbank. 

By Car

It is only 2.7 km (11 minutes) from the Jonker Street Night Market. The fastest route is via Jalan Tun Mutahir.

Melaka River Cruise Ticket 

Book Melaka River Cruise Tickets online in advance from redBus to avoid the last-minute rush. Ticket price starts from MYR 33.5. 

Currently, there is a 20% OFF for redBus users in Things To Do activities. You get a 10% discount up to RM10 and 10% cashback up to RM10. To avail the offer, use the code “ACTIVITY10” during checkout. Hurry, offer valid only till 30th November 2025. 

Melaka River Cruise Boarding Process 

• Bring your redBus M-Ticket to present at the counter for redemption. 

• The passenger needs to visit the jetty/ boarding point on time. 

• Onboarding starts once it's time to fill the river cruise. 

• Present the ticket while boarding to the Ticket Master. They will collect your ticket upon boarding. 

• You don’t need to show the tickets as you disembark. 

What you get to Experience in the Melaka River Cruise 

The 9 km journey is a round trip that passes an array of landmarks. 

• A traditional Malay Village, Kampung Morten, has been preserved as a living museum. 

• Another notable landmark with macabre history is the Ghost Bridge (Jambatan Kampung Jawa), from which severed heads hung from its pillar during the Japanese invasion in WWII. 

• Beyond the historical site, the riverbank is a canvas for a continuous stretch of vibrant street art and murals. Also called the “River of Art”, these artworks depict local folklore, historical events, and scenes of daily life, turning the river into an open-air art gallery. The artistic element is relatively modern, complementing the historical tour showcasing Melaka’s ongoing cultural vibrancy. 

• Mendam Berahi Floating Café offers more than just the standard tour. Here you can book the cafe for a unique dining experience on the water, or arrange for a private boat hire for a special event. 

Things to Note before visiting the Melaka River Cruise

• The Cruise is open daily, including public and school holidays. 

• It takes around 45 minutes for a round trip and to cover 9 kilometres. 

• PPSPM operates the cruise and is uniformly marked. 

• You can board the available cruise at your chosen jetty. The cruise departs every 30 to 40 minutes, ensuring a constant flow of departures throughout the day. 

• It is advisable to wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes. 

• No food is allowed, but passengers are permitted to carry a water bottle to stay hydrated. 

• Although the river water is calm and still, passengers suffering from motion sickness need to take precautionary measures. 

• Frequent inspection and maintenance are conducted on the river cruise to ensure safety. 

• Passengers get a life jacket. 

• A live guide is not available on the cruise; however, recorded commentary is played over the speakers on the boat throughout the journey.  The commentary shares information about the various landmarks, bridges, and historical sites as you pass along the 9-kilometre route. 

Best Time to take the Melaka River Cruise Tour

The best time of the day depends on the kind of experience you are looking for:

Day Cruise (09:00 AM to 06:00 PM) 

Daytime cruise is ideal for photography as the natural light provides excellent visibility of the colourful street art, mural and intricate details of the historical building. 

Sunset Cruise 

The Sunset cruise is a fantastic option to experience both a day and a night cruise. Here, you get to see the sights of both fading lights and the city transforming with vibrant illumination. 

Night-time Cruise (06:00 PM TO 11:00 PM/ 02:00 AM) 

The night cruise is popular among couples for a magical and romantic experience. The Melaka landmarks are illuminated with colourful, rhythmic lights, creating an enchanting environment. The cooler air also makes the ride comfortable.  

Why book the Melaka River Cruise 

The key features that make the Melaka River Cruise so unique are: 

• To experience the true essence of Melaka, take the Melaka River Cruise Night tour to witness the stunning light display, water fountain show, and illuminated bridges that guide you through breathtaking views. 

• The pre-recorded commentary shares the historical and cultural narration of the site, providing a floating storytelling session. 

• The cruise offers a stunning view of Melaka’s UNESCO World Heritage site, colonial buildings, and traditional villages that you cannot cover on foot. 

• The tour showcases a mix of ancient architecture, bridges and vibrant contemporary street art along the riverbanks. 

• Experience the Floating Cafe, where special dining or event packages are available. In the cafe, you can enjoy a meal on a separate boat while cruising along the river.

Quick Tips

• Book your tickets online in advance via redBus to get instant confirmation with discounted offers and avoid long queues. Tickets are valid for 120 days from the date of purchase. 

• You need to show the tickets at the counter and can redeem the tickets from Taman Rempah Jetty (Main Jetty)- Muara Jetty.

• Carry a camera to click some amazing pictures during the night, featuring the illuminated riverside. 

• Food is not allowed on the cruise except bottled water. 

• Check the weather before planning to board the cruise.