This guide is tailored for cruise passenger visiting Singapore.
About the Port: The port of Singapore has two cruise terminals. The first one, Singapore Cruise Center, is a 15 minutes’ drive from downtown. It mainly hosts small or medium sized ships. The second cruise terminal is in the southeastern part of the city and is called Marina Bay Cruise. This modern terminal is meant for big and super-big cruise ships. The terminal has a duty-free shop and other tourist facilities.
About the City: Singapore is a city-state located in Southeast Asia. It’s connected to Malaysia by bridges. For years it has been one of the cleanest cities in the world. The population is ±5.5 million. The Republic of Singapore consists of the main island and another 63 small islets, which are connected to the mainland by ferries.
Port Facts
Climate
There is only one season in Singapore year round, and it’s summer. The average day temperature is 30°C. The night temperature never drops below 23°C. The humidity level is very high. Rainfall and thunderstorms are common throughout the year.
The coolest month is January, while the hottest one is April. November gets most of the rainfall.
Language
Singapore has 4 official languages: English, Malay, Chinese, and Tamil. So, English is widely spoken and understood by the locals.
Internet Connection
There are plenty free WIFI spots belonging to a special government program. The list includes malls, cafes, parks, and so on. Just register, get your password via SMS and use the free connection.
Also, Wireless@SG Connect is an application that will inform you about the closest WIFI spots when in Singapore. The app works only with the local operators.
The majority of hotels, cafes, and malls also have free WIFI. If there’s a password, ask for it at the customer help desk or the waiter.
Currency
The local currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). There are currency exchange spots in the shopping centers, banks, and the airport.
Sights & Attractions
Asian Civilizations Museum was opened in 2003 and displays 5 thousand years of local history. The exhibitions cover the cultures of China, Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, and the Islamic world. Empress Place Building, where the museum is housed, is an architectural gem. It was built in the 19th century. In fact, it offers only part of the museum’s collection. The other half is found at the Old Tao Nan School in Armenian Street.
Universal Studios is a theme park that contains attractions, shows and other activities derived from the famous Universal movies. The place is great for families with kids. Park sections are called Hollywood, New York, Madagascar, Ancient Egypt, Sci-Fi, Lost World and Far Far Away.
Maritime Experiential Museum presents the history of maritime traditions. The exhibitions are interactive and technologically advanced. The collection includes the full-size replica of Admiral Zheng He’s ship.
Marine Life Park is the world’s largest oceanarium. The water tank includes lobsters, hawkfish, gobies, around 200 sharks and much more. Besides the enormous aquarium, where you can witness the underwater fauna and flora, there’s also the Adventure Gove Waterpark - a collection of adrenaline rides. Don’t forget to bring towels and swimsuits!
Singapore Flyer is the best place to view the skyline and enjoy the city panorama. With the height of 165m, it’s also the world’s largest observation wheel. The trip takes around 30 minutes and costs $33 for adults. You must purchase the ticket at least 30 minutes before boarding.
Wonder Full is a light and water show that takes place near Marina Bay Sands. The show, is available every evening and consists of dancing fountains, laser lights, orchestra music, and image projection.
Other attractions you must visit are the Singapore Botanic Garden, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Gardens by the Bay, Chinatown, Sri Mariamman Temple, and so on.
Eating/ Drinking
The local cuisine consists of the cultures that thrive in Singapore. There are Chinese, Malaysian, Korean cuisines and much more.
Budget travelers should look for Hawker Centres and Foodcourts, which are basically huge cafes with numerous food vendors. You can order from any one of them, tell them your table number, and the meal will be served in around 15 minutes. Such a meal would cost $2-$6.
And of course, you can visit some of the best and most expensive restaurants like Capricci, Burlamacco Ristorante, StraitsKitchen, Au Petit Salut, and Vida Vino. The best restaurants are located in hotels.
History & Culture
History
A legend states that a prince named Sang Nila Utama was out hunting one day, when he encountered an animal he never saw before. The prince founded a new city on that spot in the 14th century and named it “The Lion City” or “Singapura”.
However, the modern city was established in the 19th century. Singapore has always been a crucial trading point for the East and the West.
Culture
Singapore is a bouquet of cultures. The main influences are Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian. The city-state has recently turned into a cosmopolitan and modern city, where life boils all day long. There are luxurious hotels with enormous infinity pools at the rooftops, noisy clubs, diverse cuisine, fantastic nature, and lots of banks.
Transportation
The fastest way to get around in Singapore is by MRT trains. The lines cover almost the entire city. Multiple-ride tickets can be purchased at MRT stations. You can get the MRT line map at every bookstore.
Singapore has two bus services. The first one is the SBS Transit that also operates overnight on Fridays and Saturdays. The night service is called the Nite Owl. SMRT, which is the second bus service, also offers a NiteRider bus for weekend nights.
Give the exact ticket price or swipe your card as you board the bus. No change will be given back, so make sure you pay the exact amount. Remember to swipe the card at the end, too. Some tickets are fixed, others depend on the distance you travel. Generally, they range from 60 cents to 2.50 Singapore Dollar.
There is no lack of taxis, but you can hail them only in special taxi designated stands. Many hotels and shopping malls have them.
Hitchhiking is not common, especially when the local public transport is almost perfect and the weather is extremely hot.
What does ChatGPT say?
Welcome to the port of Singapore
This AI-generated guide, courtesy of ChatGPT, is tailored for cruise passengers arriving in Singapore for the first time.
General Port Information
The Port of Singapore is one of the busiest in the world, renowned for its efficiency and state-of-the-art facilities, serving as a key gateway to Asia.
Touristic Information
Singapore offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modernity, with diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little India, alongside futuristic attractions like Gardens by the Bay.
Transportation Options
Train Services
- Marina Bay - 4km/2.5mi, 10min: Iconic skyline and luxury shopping.
- Chinatown - 6km/3.7mi, 15min: Rich cultural heritage and markets.
- HarbourFront - 1km/0.6mi, 5min: Gateway to Sentosa Island.
Bus Services
- Merlion Park - 5km/3.1mi, 20min: Iconic fountain and city views.
- Universal Studios - 10km/6.2mi, 30min: Movie-themed amusement park.
Other Transportation
Taxis, ride-sharing apps, and bicycle rentals offer convenient ways to explore the city, with well-marked cycling paths available.
Top 5 Attractions
- Gardens by the Bay: Futuristic park with supertree structures, entry fee applies.
- Singapore Flyer: One of the world's largest observation wheels, ticket required.
- Sentosa Island: A resort island with beaches and attractions, some fees apply.
- Singapore Zoo: World-renowned zoo with natural habitats, admission charged.
- Marina Bay Sands SkyPark: Breathtaking city views, ticket purchase necessary.
Nice to Know Facts
- Singapore is a city, state, and country all in one.
- The country is known for its strict laws maintaining cleanliness and order.
- It's one of the safest cities in the world to visit.
Fun for Families
- Children up to 6 years: Visit the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden.
- Ages 7-12: Explore the interactive Science Centre Singapore.
- Teens 13-18: Adventure Cove Waterpark offers thrilling rides and activities.
Popular things to do
- Explore the Night Safari: World's first nocturnal zoo, with unique nighttime experiences.
- Stroll through the Botanic Gardens: UNESCO heritage site with stunning flora.
- Experience the culture in Kampong Glam: Historic district with a vibrant arts scene.
Local Food and Drinks
- Hainanese Chicken Rice: Singapore's national dish, widely available.
- Chilli Crab: A spicy seafood treat, served in many local eateries.
- Teh Tarik: A frothy milk tea commonly found in hawker centers.
Shopping
Orchard Road is Singapore's premier shopping district, while VivoCity near the port offers a large variety of stores.
Historical and Cultural Tours
The National Museum of Singapore and the Asian Civilisations Museum offer insights into Singapore's rich history and culture.
Local Customs
When greeting, a handshake is common, and removing shoes before entering someone's home is a sign of respect.
Google maps
Singapore City Center on Google Maps
Cruise Ship Terminal on Google Maps
Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure.