So, you’ve only got a week worth of leave but want a unique and refreshing getaway… have you considered booking a cruise?
If not, why not?
I got to explore parts of Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand by taking one flight and boarding a six-day cruise.
It was the ideal trip that required minimal planning and ended up being the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
Here’s what my experience on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas was like:
Day 1: Singapore
We took a five-hour flight from Perth to Singapore the night before which gave us time to wander around the dynamic city before the ship’s departure at 3.30pm.
We made our way to Marina Bay Cruise Centre about 1.30pm and boarded the cruise which was a quick and easy process thanks to the self-check in via the RC app.
After boarding you’re free to scope out the 4900-passenger carrier, head up to the top deck, grab a cocktail and sit by the pool.
Day 2: Penang, Malaysia
After a night of smooth sailing we docked in the bustling capital of George Town and set out for a day of exploring.
Since we only had one day in Penang, we wanted to make the most of the hours we had — if you find planning stressful the RC app offers shore excursions and guided tours, but if you don’t feel like joining a group its a good way to find activities.
To get around you can take the free Central Area Transit (CAT bus) or find a local driver, we opted for a driver to beat the humidity.
Our first stop was the Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple and the 33-metre-long Reclining Buddha Temple across the road.
While both spots attract scores of tourists, the temples weren’t busy, in fact they were peaceful, breathtaking and bursting with colour like you’ve never seen before.
Next we stopped at a Batik factory where we watched how the ancient technique combining wax, dye and fabric is used to make intricate patterns that are printed onto clothing.
We used our last hours to see the remarkable street art by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic — his beloved murals capture the culture and people that make George Town. His art is dotted everywhere, the works are unmissable.
Before returning to the ship our driver, Albert, took us to his favourite eating spot, New World Park Food court. The landmark had every cuisine, it was foodie heaven.
Day 3-4: Phuket, Thailand
The next day we arrived in Phuket with the ship anchored in the waters off Patong Beach, so, getting onto land meant we would be taken to shore by a tender boat.
Guests also had the option to stay on shore for one night as we had two days in Phuket. Otherwise the tender boats ran every five minutes between the cruise and land then every half hour after midnight.
On our first day we took a taxi to Phuket Old Town, famous for its colourful Sino-Portugese townhouses. We weaved through the streets and enjoyed the mix of cafe’s, restaurants, shops, delectable mango sticky rice and revitalising massage spas.
That night we sat ringside at Patong Boxing Stadium to watch Muay Thai fighting. Despite arriving over an hour early, the stadium was packed and the atmosphere was heady.
We watched a mixture of local and international fighters for eight thrilling clashes that had almost every person in the room roaring.
The following day we dedicated all our time to the dreamy Freedom Beach.
A short tuktuk ride took us to a windy dirt track where we paid a small entry fee to enter the beach and another few dollars to rent lounge chairs.
After wandering down steep steps through the luscious green jungle, we made it to a little cove sprinkled with vivid beach umbrellas where we enjoyed the crystal clear water.
Day 5: At Sea
Our final full day was spent at sea, giving us time to make the most of the cruise’s offerings.
It was too windy for rock climbing on the 15th deck, so I took myself for brunch at The Cafe @ Two70 at the back of the cruise. The floor to ceiling windows give you a view of the calming endless horizon.
Meanwhile, my partner made the most of the gym, spa and sauna area.
The last day at sea gave us time to rest after a few busy days and see the on-ship entertainment from the theatre show to the esteemed cruise band The Dukes.
Day 6: Singapore
Day six wraps up your epic journey.
You off-board the cruise about 8am so you’re free to head back into Singapore and see the sites or finish your travels and go back to Changi Airport, 20 minutes away from the cruise centre.
The round trip is a good way to travel if you’re looking for a journey defined by convenience, freedom and most importantly, fun.
Morgan de Smidt was a guest of Royal Caribbean. They have not influenced or read this story before publication.
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