penang port cruise terminal

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Penang Port handles some of the largest cruise vessels in the world at Swettenham Pier with a nice terminal in Georgetown on Penang Island. This is close to Beach Street, Weld Quay, Clock Tower and Esplanade.

The distance to downtown George Town is approximately 1.2 kilometers (about 0.75 miles), which is a short 5-minute drive or a 15-minute walk.

At times you will be anchored and tendered in to town, if more than 2 ships are expected.

Printable map to take along.

Cruise calendar for this port.

Watch a destination video .

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Port Location on Google Maps

Monthly Climate Averages for Penang Malaysia

Sightseeing:

Penang (Malay: Pulau Pinang) is an island off the northern part of the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. It is also the name of the Malaysian state which is made up of Penang Island and the facing strip of territory on the mainland called Seberang Perai (formerly Province Wellesley).

Penang is one of Malaysia's main tourist draws. Its beaches are a little lackluster when compared with those in some other Malaysian states, but this is more than compensated by the island's rich multicultural history which is full of colonial and Chinese influences. Penang is also well known for being the "food paradise" of Malaysia if not the whole of Asia.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

The old town is very walkable .

If getting a taxi, do so INSIDE the terminal as they are 'somewhat' regulated. Taxis are available immediately outside the terminal but will charge twice as much.

Take a funicular railway ride up the Mountain to see the old British Traders gracious homes, and marvel at the coolness, and the views.

Getting around Penang can be a minor hassle, as buses tend to be poorly signposted and infrequent; The free bus and city busses are the same vehicle, one's just a little more crowded Take the #204 to Kek Loc Si for 2RM then continue on to Penang Hill for 1.4RM before returning to Little India or beach for 2RM. The free bus travels throughput CBD but does not go to either site.

By trishaw: These three-wheeled vehicles might be the best idea for a pleasant city tour. One can stop at any point to take photo or buy souvenirs. Negotiate the fare first before get on the trishaw; it is advisable to hire them by the hour for extended sightseeing.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here .

Nearby Places:

Shopping and food.

Food tasting - Penang is popular among Malaysians for a huge variety of local food such as Char Kwey Teow, Penang Laksa and Nasi Kandar, which are found almost practically everywhere in the Island. However, the best place to go "food hopping" would be Macalister Road. For the most well-known Char Kwey Toew, try "Sister's Chow Koay Teow" at Lorong Selamat.

The three most popular shopping malls in Penang would be Gurney Plaza, Prangin Mall and Queensbay, which houses a full range of fashionable goods and necessity items. If you crave the unusual, head on down to the flea market at Lorong Kulit, which is open from morning until around 2:00pm daily. If mingling with the masses is your idea of fun, check out the pasar malam (night market) along Batu Ferringhi for some inexpensive shopping and dining, gets more interesting during weekends.

The Malaysian currency is the ringgit.

ATMs are widely available in cities, but do stock up on cash if heading out into the smaller islands or the jungle. Credit cards can be used in most shops, restaurants and hotels, although skimming can be a problem in dodgier outlets.

Tipping is not customary in Malaysia. However, hotel porters and taxi drivers will appreciate a small tip if you have been provided with exemplary service. Most expensive restaurants, bars and hotels may indicate prices in the form of RM19++, meaning that sales tax (5%) and service charge (10%) will be added to the bill.

Currency Converter

Communication:

The sole official language of Malaysia is Malay (Bahasa Malaysia). English is also taught in schools and widely spoken in the cities although in rural areas a little Malay will come in handy.

Broadband Internet is available in most hotels, cafes which offer free WiFi for customers, and some restaurants and cafes. Both cable broadband and wireless broadband (available in hot spots areas such as Starbucks and McDonald's) are available.

Emergency numbers All type of emergency 999; From mobile phone - 999 or 112

Opening Hours and Holidays:

In general shops open from 10.30am till 9.30pm in the large cities. They open and close for business earlier in the smaller towns and rural areas.

For a list of public holidays click here .

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Penang cruise port guide: everything you need to know

Posted on Last updated: July 28, 2024

The magnificent Malaysian island of Penang isn’t just known as one of the most stunning and rewarding destinations in Southeast Asia, it’s also one of the most popular stops on any Asian cruise itinerary. Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Lines are just some of the cruise companies to include stops in Penang, with thousands of passengers disembarking each year to explore the island on a shore excursion.

If your cruise itinerary includes a stop in Penang, keep reading to find out how best to spend your one day on the island, what to see and where to go.

Before you arrive: things to look out for as your ship approaches Penang

The Malacca Strait is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world and also one of the most strategically important, due to the link it offers between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. As a result, a large proportion of the world’s shipping and goods pass through this stretch of water each year, so you’ll be in good company.

As you approach the narrow gap between mainland Malaysia and Penang Island, try to catch a glimpse from the starboard side of Muka Head Lighthouse atop one of the hills which form Penang National Park . Further along the coastline, the suburbs of Batu Ferringhi, Tanjong Bungah and Tanjong Tokong (incidentally, Tanjong means ‘Cape’ in Malay) with their high-rise buildings and beaches will come into view.

As you round the northern tip of the island, off the starboard side you’ll spot Andaman Island , a large-scale land reclamation project, Gurney Drive (where many high-end malls and apartments are located), before George Town itself floats into view. Keep an eye out for the grand Eastern and Oriental Hotel , a luxury hotel which, in years gone by, was often the first stop for wealthy visitors arriving by sea. The remnants of Fort Cornwallis , the landing site of the first Europeans is also visible just before you dock at the Penang cruise terminal .

Where do cruise ships dock in Penang?

Cruise ships arriving into the port of Penang dock at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal . Originally opened in 1904, the terminal is now the busiest in Malaysia and is an attractive building in its own right. It’s undergone a few renovation projects over the years and the cruise terminal is now capable of welcoming some of the largest cruise ships in the world.

Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal is located in a central and convenient part of George Town, easily within walking distance of most of the sights within the UNESCO-listed city limits.

Do you need cash and where is the nearest ATM to the cruise terminal?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Penang, especially at larger restaurants, food courts, souvenir shops and bars. You could get by without having cash but, for smaller food vendors, taxi rides, snacks and other small purchases, it helps to have some cash with you.

The currency in Malaysia is the ringgit (RM) with notes coming in denominations of RM100, RM50, RM20, RM10, RM5 and RM1. Check online for the latest rates but, as a guide, RM1 converts to £6 or US$4.80.

Once you leave the cruise terminal, the nearest ATM is HSBC on Lebuh Pantai (which translates as Beach Street). Several other banks along the same road also have ATMs.

If you’re just planning to eat at a local food stall or restaurant, with a couple of coffees or soft drinks throughout the day, RM50 to RM70 per person should be sufficient. Wine and beer in Penang is expensive by local standards, so add on RM25 per drink in that case.

Is Penang safe to visit?

Yes, Penang is an extremely safe destination to visit and you should have no concerns about heading out into the city on your own rather than on an organised tour. The exit from the cruise terminal is perhaps the trickiest part, with taxi drivers shouting and touting for business, but once you branch out into George Town, you’ll feel safe and secure.

Pickpockets and bag-snatching is a rare but occasional issue, as it is everywhere in the world. Take the usual precautions but there’s no need to be concerned. In the highly unlikely event you need it, the emergency number in Malaysia is 999 and the closest police station to the cruise terminal is at the top of Beach Street .

Should self-guide rather than take cruise tour?

The temptation might be to take one of the guided shore excursions offered by your cruise company but we’d really encourage you to strike out on your own and self-guide around George Town. Check out our self-guided George Town walking tour for some ideas, otherwise the UNESCO-listed city begins as soon as you leave the cruise terminal.

With a map and sense of adventure, Penang will be one of the easiest places to visit on your cruise itinerary and perhaps your favourite shore excursion.

Getting around Penang during your visit

The Penang buses are a good option if you’re planning to hop around George Town, in particular the free CAT bus which performs a loop around the best sights in George Town. The buses pickup near the cruise terminal , otherwise the main hub at the Jetty is a ten-minute walk away. Keep in mind that, aside from travel passes which you probably won’t need on such a short visit, the buses take cash-only with no change given. Expect to pay RM1.40 for rides around George Town (less than 7km).

The best option if you’re reasonably mobile is to walk; the centre of George Town is compact and easy to navigate, with most of the highlights only a few hundred metres apart.

Further afield, especially if you have time to venture beyond George Town, a Grab taxi is fast, safe and convenient. Check out our guide on installing and using the app, if you have internet access on your mobile phone, it’s by the far the easiest way to get around and registration only takes a few minutes.

Normal taxis are a reasonable option but, with the increasing popularity of Grab, you’ll see fewer of them driving around nowadays. You’ll see (and hear) lots of them as you leave the cruise terminal and some passengers forfeit value for convenience by hiring one here.

What to do in Penang if you only have a few hours onshore

If you only have a few hours in Penang, we’d suggest you focus your time on George Town and save the rest of the island for another visit.

Our self-guided walking tour starts a few minutes walk away from the cruise terminal, or you can pick it up at Fort Cornwallis (directly outside the cruise terminal at step 2) and go from there. It should take around three or four hours to complete, or you can finish early if you’re pushed for time. The walking tour takes in the best George Town has to offer, with a couple of options for food and drink breaks when you need them.

What to do in Penang if you have longer onshore

If you have a full day in Penang, you could take a whirlwind tour of George Town, perhaps picking out some key highlights such as Fort Cornwallis or the Blue Mansion . Afterwards, jump in a taxi or Grab and head to either Penang Hill (for some cooler air and fantastic views over the island) or to Kek Lok Si Temple , one of the most impressive Buddhist temples in Malaysia.

Back in George Town, perhaps grab a sundowner at the E&O Hotel or a tasty Indian meal at Gem restaurant on Bishop Street, only a ten-minute walk back to the cruise terminal.

We suggest you check out our Penang one-day itinerary .

One day Penang itinerary

For such a small patch of land, Penang Island squeezes in enough sights and activities to keep you occupied for a lifetime. So what’s the best approach to visiting Penang if you only have one day to spare?

Final thoughts on visiting Penang on a cruise

A visit to Penang is likely to be one of the highlights of your cruise adventure. Unlike some other cruise destinations, you’ll disembark right in the centre of this world-renowned city, with no need to endure another long shuttle bus.

As soon as you step out of the cruise terminal and into George Town, you’re in the heart of the action, with numerous sights, activities and eating options within a few minutes walk. If possible, skip the organised tour and experience this magical place on your own terms, in your own time.

Before your go, check out these useful reads for your visit:

The best things to do in Penang Top 10 tips for visiting Penang One day Penang itinerary Best hotels in Penang How to get around Penang A brief history of Penang

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As a major point of entry for tourists by sea of Penang Island, Penang Port is now able to receive some of the largest cruise vessels in the world with the completion of the new Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal in November 2009. The new cruise terminal with a T-shaped berth of 400 meters long with a depth of 12 meters.

The three-storey high terminal building, which occupies a total area of 15,005 sq. meters, has the ideal facilities for cruise passengers arrivals and departures. The terminal is able to cater for larger cruise vessels carrying more than 2,000 passengers and also equipped facilities such as shopping lots and transportation facilities.

With the new Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal in operation and located within the UNESCO Heritage Site, Penang will not only be an international cruise vessels destination but also act as catalyst in the development of the local and international tourism industry.

GPS coordinate of Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal is 5.41907 N & 100.34553 E, parking lots provided at Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbhah opposite the Fort Cornwallis Light House.

• Berth Length - 400 metres x 25 metres Depth alongside - 12 metres

North inner berth length - 248 metres  Depth alongside - 6.5 metres

South inner berth length - 219 metres Depth alongside - 5.5 metres

- 96 metres and 54 metres

- 90,000 tonnes

- Arrival Hall - Departure Hall - CIQ Facilities - 8 shoplots - Office - Others

CRUISE PORT GUIDES

Penang – Malaysia

Travel information Malaysia

Official currency – Ringgit Accepts Us dollars – are often accepted Creditcards – are widely accepted

Drives on the – left Timezone – UTC +8

About Malaysia

Inhabitants – 30 million Official language – Bahasa Malaysia Capital city – Kuala Lumpur

Malaysian Federation Government – Federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy

Malaysian language

Good day – Hari yang baik How are you? – Apa khabar? Thank you – Terima Kasih Cruise ship – Kapal pester Port – Pelabuhan

Also visit our cruise port guides for:

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Georgetown – Penang Cruise Port Guide: dock or tender

Accessible Georgetown

Please note that Georgetown has rather under developed footpaths. Some streets do not have footpaths at all. Pedestrians should be advised to pay attention to traffic when walking through the city.

Penang’s cruise taxis

The official taxis of Penang are red and blue coloured. Blue coloured taxis are the newer taxis and therefore they cost a bit more. Taxis in Penang do not have a meter, therefore you need to negotiate with the driver before stepping in. Please know the taxi prices are on display in the port area. Expect the following taxi prices: To Kek Lok Si Temple, both ways: 150 RM Around 50 RM per hour per taxi (with a minimum of 3 hours) Between 80 and 120 per hour per van (with a minimum of 3 hours)

Penang’s trishaws

Alternatively to taxis you can also go around by trishaw. This is a great way to get to nearby places in town. Negotiate a price before you head off. Expect to pay between 35 and 50 RM per hour.

Penang’s public transportation for cruise passengers

The local transportation in Georgetown is rather good. Komtar is the main bus station (see marked in the map above). From here you can take buses all over the island. Bus line 201, 204 stops near the exit of the cruise terminal. Catch one of these busses to go to Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple.

There is no wi-fi available at the cruise port. However you can find lots of coffee places in town to connect to wi-fi when you buy a cup of coffee. Try white coffee at church street of Subway for example.

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Georgetown Penang cruise port

Cruise ships dock at the Swettenham pier in Georgetown, Penang. This cruise dock offers a cruise terminal with several facilities and is located close to the city center of Georgetown. Read the full Penang cruise port guide to know all about what to see and do in port.

Swettenham cruise dock, Georgetown

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Pulau Penang Island (Georgetown, Malaysia Penang)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Asia

Local Time 2024-08-26 21:13

Port Pulau Penang Island cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Pulau Penang Island, Georgetown, Malaysia Penang. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Pulau Penang Island is part of Malaysia (constitutional monarchy in Southeast Asia) as one of all 13 federal states. The state covers a total area of approx 1048 km2 (405 mi2) and has population around 1,67 million. It is also one of the 4 Malaysian states run by a Governor (together with Malacca, Sabah, and Sarawak). Malaysia also has another isle called "Pulau Pinang" - it is a diving site in South China Sea (part of Johor Marine Park) which consist of the islands Pinang, Dayang, Lang, and Aur.

Port Penang is a free port (free economic territory) serving the capital city George Town (also Georgetown). When the British East India Company occupied Penang (August 12, 1786), the isle was named "Prince of Wales Island" to honor the birthday of King George IV (at that time Prince of Wales, 1762-1830). The capital city George Town was named after the ruling King George III (1738-1820).

Penang Island has an area of 295 km2 (114 mi2). It is the 4th-largest island in Malaysia, after Banggi, Bruit and Langkawi islands. Pulau Penang Island is also the most populated in the country with a population of around 678,000. It is connected with mainland Malaysia by the Penang Bridge which begins at Gelugor on the isle and ends in Perai on the mainland.  In 2016, the cruise port handled 150 ship calls and 230,000+ passengers. In 2017, RCCL had scheduled 38 ship calls in Penang (George Town).

In mid-March 2017, RCCL-Royal Caribbean entered into a joint venture (40% stake) with the Porth Authority "Penang Port Sdn Bhd" (PPSB). On September 6, 2018, RCCL and PPSB  Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCL) and Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) officially signed the joint venture terminal project (~USD 37 million).

RCCL will upgrade and redevelop port's existing facility "Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal" in George Town. At the upgraded pier will be able to dock two  larger cruise vessels simultaneously. Along with two large liners, the port will be also able to berth 2 more ships - 1 small and 1 medium-sized. The existing berth will be extended from 400 to 688 m (1312 to 2260 ft), by adding 220 m pier plus 118 m long marine dolphin (mooring structure extending above the water but not connected to shore). Terminal's areas will be redeveloped to include a dedicated tour bus parking area. In 2019, RCI scheduled a total of 36 ship calls at Penang.

In August 2019 was announced that Prasarana Malaysia Berhad (government-owned transport company) in 2020 will upgrade Penang Island's ferry service (daily crossings on the Butterworth-Georgetown route) by introducing catamarans to speed up the passenger shipping between the island and mainland Malaysia. For this Rapid Ferry project, the Government allocated MYR 90 million (~USD 21,5 million / ~EUR 19,3 million). Most of the existing ferries will be converted into cruise ships transporting tourists.

Pulau Penang Island cruise terminal

Cruise ships to Pulau Penang Island dock at George Town/Georgetown - on the island's east coast. Most liners dock at Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT), which has capacity to berth 4 vessels at the time (2 larger plus 1 small and 1 medium).

The cruise port (officially Penang Harbour) can handle the world's largest passenger ships at its Swettenham Pier. The pier is located close to the popular tourist attractions Weld Quay, Beach Street, Clock Tower, Esplanade.

As Swettenham Pier has only 2 berths, if those are already occupied, other cruise vessels will be anchored in the harbor waterway and their passengers offloaded and transported to the town via the ship's tender boats. For 2018 was scheduled a port development project included widening of the cruise berths and expanding the passenger terminal.

The budgeted MYR 155 million (Malaysian Ringgit / ~USD 37M) project was planned to start in September 2019. After its completion (scheduled for Sept 2020 but postponed to 2021) terminal's length was expanded northwards from 545 to 793 m (1790-2600 ft). The expanded terminal now has capacity to handle 2 mega-liners simultaneously (on its outer berths) plus 2 smaller-sized ships (1 small plus 1 medium) on its inner berths.

SPCT's expansion resulted in ~30% larger berthing area. The solid deck wharf was extended 220 m towards the terminal's north (from 400 to 620 m / 2034 ft), and the breasting and mooring dolphin were increased, respectively, by 50 m and 68 m.

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Cruises to Penang, Malaysia

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Penang Cruise Port guide

See the best of Southeast Asia and the beautiful Malaysian coast on a Penang cruise with Celebrity. The island of Penang is a vibrant mix of the many layers of culture and history that make Malaysia so unique. The region is known for its tropical setting, Hindu-inspired Buddhist temples, historic forts and villages, and its bustling port city of George Town. Penang boasts European colonial, Chinese, Indian, and Malaysian cultural influences that seep into every part of its colorful charm. 

Visit ornately adorned temples showcasing both Hindu and Buddhist iconography, or admire colorful shophouses protected by UNESCO. Relax on sunny beaches just a few miles from the port. Shop for Chinese and Malay antiques in one of George Town’s markets. Explore the wonders of local nature preserves, and sample delicious food blending Chinese, Malay and Indian influences, as well as local fusion dishes. Experience Penang in style on a luxury cruise to Southeast Asia with Celebrity Cruises.

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Top sites & attractions for cruises to penang, kek lok si temple.

The Kek Lok Si Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and the center for many religious pilgrims who make the journey each year from all over Asia to visit. The temple is famous for its striking, seven-story pagoda which towers over brightly-colored terraced buildings, many of which date back to the late 1800s. The Kek Lok Si Temple has a mix of Chinese, Thai, and Malay influences, and is considered an iconic representation of both the region’s diverse contemporary culture and history.

Clan Jetties of Penang

The Clan Jetties of Penang comprise stilt houses built over the water on long, narrow walkways. They feature rustic homes, small trinket shops and food stalls, and well-preserved facades. Penang’s Clan Jetties originated as homes for many of the city’s Chinese clans and were some of the first Chinese settlements on the island. There are considered cultural heritage sites in Penang, and there are six that still stand today, accessible by foot just south of the cruise terminal.

Gurney Drive

If you’re looking for modern urban shopping, a glittering skyline, and some of the best dining options in Penang, then a visit to Gurney Drive is a must. This popular seafront esplanade in George Town runs along the city’s waterfront and is ideal for a stroll by day, or a night out on the town. If street food is on your agenda, you’ll find some of the best in Malaysia at the many hawker stalls along Gurney Drive. There are also many traditional and upscale dining options available, including restaurants with sea and skyline views that offer more refined cuisine.

Things to Do in Penang

Visit fort cornwallis.

The British colonial influence on Penang is present in many ways, and none is more iconic than the former seaside military fortress of Fort Cornwallis. Built by the British East India Company in the late 18th century, this well-preserved fort is popular with visitors who want a first-hand glimpse of Penang’s colonial past and learn about the spice trade and subsequent conflicts. The fort has an authentic drawbridge as well as a statue that pays tribute to its founder, Sir Francis Light. Local legend says that placing flowers in the cannons at Fort Cornwallis will bring fertility, so if you see them during your tour, be mindful of the tradition.

Tour the Tropical Spice Garden

At first, these gardens appear to be more like a nature preserve or national park, but within them grow some of the most valuable spices on earth. The gardens are home to over 500 different tropical plant species. The herbs and spices that are grown and cultivated here have shaped the deep traditional flavors in the local cuisine and are part of the region’s cultural and culinary heritage. Book a cooking class at the Tropical Spice Garden to get a fabulous hands-on experience and tease your taste buds with some authentic Malay dishes.

Travel by Tram Up Penang Hill

For unbeatable panoramic views of the city and its lush green surroundings, take a ride on the tram up Penang Hill. The Penang Hill railway is one of the oldest funicular trams in the world, and offers a unique perspective from an altitude of over 2,500 feet, with sweeping views across George Town to the distant mainland. From the top, cooled by gentle breezes, you can take a short or long hike through one of the hill’s nature trails, looking out for lemurs, colorful birds and dazzling butterflies, or visit the nearby Botanical Gardens.

Top Food and Drink Near the Penang Port

On a Penang cruise, you’ll get to taste some of the most diverse cuisines in Asia, with flavors and styles from all over the region on offer. Near the port in George Town, you’ll find excellent Chinese dim sum, traditional Malaysian street food like Char Koay Teow noodles, and Malay-Chinese fusion restaurants. There are authentic Indian restaurants in George Town’s Little India district, too, just a few minutes away from the cruise terminal. Be sure to try a cool and refreshing Teh O Ais Limau, or iced lime tea, before ending your stay.

Culture & History of Penang

Penang’s culture and history have been influenced by the island’s roots as a former international spice trading hub. Much of Penang’s modern history was defined by the British East India Company, which purchased the island from the Sultanate of Kedah in the late 18th century. Contemporary life in Penang is a mix of modern maritime commerce, tourism, and local Malay traditions. There is also a heavy Chinese influence and a large community of Indian and other Asian cultures that share the island as their home. English and Chinese are widely spoken as second or third languages, and ancient Malay culture is still honored and prominent throughout the island as well.

Penang Port Facilities and Location

The Penang cruise port is located at Swettenham Pier, just blocks from some of the main attractions in the capital, George Town, such as Weld Quay, Beach Street, and the Jubilee Clock Tower. The port facilities have convenient access to water ferries, taxis, and shuttles right out front of the cruise terminal.

Transportation in Penang

Penang has many options for transportation, and all are available conveniently outside of the cruise terminal and around the center of George Town. There are many options for group travel via shuttle or bus if needed. If you prefer to travel by taxi, try to book one while inside the terminal. For a really fun local experience, take a ride on a pedal-powered rickshaw, or trishaw, to get around the center of town.

Shopping Near the Penang Cruise Port

You’ll find lots of great shopping options near the port while on a Penang cruise. Head to Gurney Plaza for higher-end fashion brands and electronics shopping, or peruse the many souvenir stalls that line the jetties, specializing in Chinese goods and trinkets. Look out for spices, preserved tropical fruits, silks, and batik. For a unique shopping experience, visit the flea market at Lorong Kulit, but make sure to go early, as it closes each day in the early afternoon.

Local Currency & Tipping Options

The local currency in Penang is the Malaysian ringgit. You’ll find plenty of ATMs and banks within the central area of George Town where you can withdraw cash, but fewer as you go out into the countryside. It’s recommended to use cash when you can, as skimming can often happen with cards in certain areas, and small vendors may not accept card payments for low-priced purchases. Tipping is not customary, however many taxi and rickshaw drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides are accustomed to receiving small tips from visitors who find their service accommodating.

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Penang Port Sdn Bhd (“Penang Port”) is located in the state of Penang, in the north-west of Peninsular Malaysia.

Known as the oldest and longest established port in Malaysia, Penang Port paved a boutique role by serving as the primary gateway to the Northern region of Malaysia and Southern Thailand,  serving the basins of the Straits of Malacca and the Gulf of Bengal.

Penang Port as a Hub Since 1994

Pursuant to the privatisation agreement dated  31 December 1993 (Privatisation Agreement) entered between the Government of Malaysia, Penang Port Commission and Penang Port sdn Bhd,  Penang Port shall operate, manage, provide operational facilities, and port services in the Port of Penang to control, maintain, construct, improve,  and develop the Port commencing 1 January 1994.

Penang Port houses a plethora of services, lending itself well as a multipurpose port that provides unique value towards the growth of industries in Penang. Being situated in Penang is also a major  game-changer, as Penang is strategically linked to the Indonesia – Malaysia – Thailand Growth Triangle.

The IMT-Growth Triangle promotes private-sector led economic growth, facilitates the development of the sub-region as a whole by addressing complementarities and comparative advantages of the member countries.

Free Commercial Zone (FCZ)

Penang Port’s terminal, the North Butterworth Container Terminal (NBCT) was gazetted as a Free Commercial Zone (FCZ) on 1 February 2021, which enables Penang Port to be the focal point for shipping and transhipment activities.

Penang Port will capitalise on its FCZ status to tap into the Bay of Bengal market by undertaking transhipment activities for containers moving between the Bay of Bengal and the Far-East.

Specialised in Conventional Cargo

Penang Port also plays a niche role in the handling of conventional cargoes – which focuses on Break Bulk, Dry Bulk and Liquid Bulk Cargo, with clear emphasis on dangerous goods and edible oils.

Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) as a Tourism Hub

Penang also promotes Seamless Cruise-to-Tourism access through our leverage at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal – which has emerged as the busiest port of call in Malaysia for cruise.

With only a 200-metre walk to Penang’s state capital, George Town, tourist can venture to one of Malaysia’s gastronomic capitals for its distinct and ubiquitous street food, unique cultural heritage, and the financial centre of northern Malaysia and the nation’s most vital medical tourism hub.

For more information on Penang Port, please visit: www.penangport.com.my

SPCT: Modern Luxury Meets History

The SPCT is the latest terminal in Penang Port, which began in 2010 after a major rebuild. It has a main berth that is 820 metres in length with a water depth of 11 metres, capable of handling two Oasis-class vessels with 12,000 passengers at one time.

It also has two inner berths; north and south. The north inner berth is able to accommodate a 270 metres vessel (maximum size) with a depth of 10 metres, while the south inner berth is able to accommodate a 100 metres vessel (maximum size) with a depth of 5.5 metres.

Since 2010, SPCT has handled more than 1 million passengers, with the bulk of this traffic coming from the handling of international and local cruises including the “Cruise to Nowhere”.

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Penang Day Trip Guide: Exploring Georgetown During a Cruise Stopover

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Penang to me is a nostalgic safe haven where I look forward to rediscovering again and again. Officially inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, Penang’s capital Georgetown holds more than just history to her lands. The ever-changing scapes of Georgetown prove that there’s always space for creativity and new ideas within the old and static.

A state that celebrates ethnic diversity, Penang’s vibrant colours reflect the multiculturalism of her people that’s not only evident in her streets but also the food. Also, its proximity makes it the perfect short getaway if you do not have much time to spare.

Here, we’ve compiled a list of Must-Sees and Must-Eats of Penang’s Georgetown. If like us, you find yourself in Penang from a short stopover from the cruise, we’ve included our exact itinerary at the end of this post!

Travel Essentials for Penang

Getting around: Georgetown is discoverable by foot, or you can rent a bicycle and explore on two-wheels ! Taking a Grab Car around is cheap too.

Staying connected:   Or the lack thereof. Many cafes in Georgetown has free wifi, so it’s not really necessary to purchase a SIM card for Malaysia. For us, we downloaded Google Maps offline onto our phones (do it before you leave Singapore!) to navigate our way around Georgetown. No problems at all!

Essentials: Bring around ~RM 150 (~S$50) in cash. Also, pack along your shades, sunscreen, and fans (paper fans, portable USB fans, etc.), as the sun and heat in Penang can be unforgiving.

Things to do in Penang

1) visit the old chinese clan entities of penang, i) clan jetties.

While most of the residents no longer depend on fishing as a livelihood, there are still six clans residing permanently by the waters. Visitors are allowed to explore the clan jetties at any time but do keep in mind to take only pictures and leave only footprints .

ii) Majestic Clan Houses and Mansions

Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi:  A significant piece of heritage, the Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi (or just “Khoo Kongsi” ) is the largest clan house in Malaysia. Many have also dubbed it the most extravagant clan house in the whole of Southeast Asia with the intricate wood carvings and gilded gold leaves.

Entrance Fee: RM10/pax Address:  18, Cannon Square, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Opening Hours: 9AM – 5PM daily

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (Blue Mansion):  If there’s a colour I could paint my entire house in, it’d be blue. In Fengshui, blue represents water, and water brings growth and wealth. That’s probably what 19th-century Chinese businessman and politician, Cheong Fatt Tze, had in mind when he had his house, the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion , built.

This historical landmark is also a boutique hotel now, and there are guided tours conducted thrice per day for curious visitors. Be ready to feast your eyes on the once-lavish life of Cheong Fatt Tze and his many wives.

Entrance Fee:  RM17/pax Address:  14, Leith Street 10200 Penang, Malaysia Guided Tour Timings:  11AM, 2PM, and 3:30PM daily  

2) Exploring Iconic Old-School Streets

Love Lane:  Besides being a food paradise, Georgetown of Penang is also known to many for her quirky street art and mushrooming hipster cafes. Love Lane is of the most visited lanes of Georgetown where many of the rustic old shophouses have been turned into trendy cafes and cheap backpackers’ hostels.

Location:  Love Ln, Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

3) Street Arts in Georgetown

There are a lot of murals (more than 50!) around Georgetown, and some of the more notable ones* are actually located within walking distance of each other. Hunt for some of them at back alleys and forgotten streets while on your way to the next cafe.

If you’re tight on time, you’ll really only need to visit two streets —  Ah Quee Street  and  Lebuh Armenian .

*The murals come and go! Some of which we saw on our previous trips have either faded over time or have been repainted over!

Read also: Guide to Georgetown’s Street Art

4) Wonderfood Museum

Penang is known as a food haven, and there’s a place that amplifies this fact. At Wonderfood Museum , you can find Penang street food of all kinds made into the giant versions of themselves. The whimsical museum celebrates local cultures and tastes of the food people consume in their everyday lives.

Entrance Fee: RM 25/pax Address: 49, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Opening Hours: 9AM – 6PM daily

What to Eat & Drink

1) moh teng pheow nyonya koay & canteen.

Hidden in a quiet back alley is one of Penang’s oldest confectionery shop — Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Koay & Canteen , a household name that many go to for childhood delights.

This canteen serves a colourful array of traditional kuehs handmade from scratch, a taste that is hard to find now in today’s world.

Price:  RM0.60–RM1.50/piece Address:  off 10200, Chulia Street Night Hawker Stalls, Lorong Chulia, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Opening Hours:  10:30AM – 5:30PM (Closed on Mondays)

2) China House

We’ve introduced them to you before, and really don’t mind mentioning them again just because their cakes are dope. Get lost  your creative juices flowing in the  longest cafe in Penang  —  China House .  

Provided with a cup of loose crayons, patrons are encouraged to draw on the mahjong papers lined on the tables. The best ones get displayed around the cafe! If you think this is just another novelty cafe, you’re wrong. China House’s specialty coffees and the wide selection of cakes are the highlights one must not miss. The signature Tiramisu cake (RM18) got me hooked.

Costs: RM 10.80-20.80/piece Address: 153, Lebuh Pantai, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Opening Hours: 9AM – 1AM daily

3) 888 Hokkien Mee

This makan place is slightly out of the way from the heart of Georgetown but is one I’ll gladly travel to just to satisfy my cravings for prawn noodles. It is here where you can get more than what you pay for. A basic bowl of prawn noddles cost RM 4.50 (that’s S$1.50), and every additional item such as eggs and pork ribs cost from RM1-2/pc (S$0.30-0.70).

Located approx. 15 mins’ walk away from China House, 888 Hokkien Mee sees mostly locals who crave for the local Malaysian Chinese taste, a generous bowl of hot savoury prawn noodles. For food we can walk, alternatively, a Grab ride should cost less than RM10 for that distance.

Cost: RM4.50/bowl; add-ons at RM1-2/ea Address:  67-A, Lebuh Presgrave, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia Opening Hours: 5PM – 11:45PM daily

Penang is a food haven you’ll never get enough of, here are 6 authentic Penang street foods not to be missed !

Our Penang Day Trip Itinerary — Ideal for Cruise-goers

4pm: moh teng pheow nyonya koay & canteen.

Upon disembarkation, take the free shuttle bus towards the heart of Georgetown (Red Line from Cruise stop marked “10”). We alighted at Leith Street and headed to Moh Teng Pheow Nyonya Koay & Canteen. This old-school confectionary is hidden in a small backstreet, and it takes more than just keen eyes to find it! Though it’s our second time to this place, we’re sure we’ll be back for more!

4:30PM: Exploring Love Lane

Having a romantic name does come with its perks, like how Love Lane became to be one of the most visited streets of Georgetown. There’s no exact answer to this lane’s alluring name, but one thing we’re sure is that it’s here to stay. While we were there, we couldn’t help but pose in front of the old shophouses’ doors for some OOTD shots. Lovely!

5PM: More sweets at China House

There’s always room for desserts, so we went all out with desserts when we’re in Penang. After having tasted traditional Chinese kuehs at Moh Teng Pheow, we treated our tastebuds with western delights such as tiramisu and carrot cake.

6PM: Hunting-down Street Arts Around Georgetown

While we definitely would like to pose with every single mural we saw on the streets of Georgetown, time constraint meant that we only had time to see some of them. We were lucky though, as the area we were at is exactly where the more iconic murals are at.

7PM: Catch the sunset at Clan Jetties of Penang

Getting ourselves back to the vicinity of the port, we realised we still have some time on hand before we needed to embark on the cruise. Chasing that golden glow that’s soon to merge into the horizon, we made our way to one of the clan jetties of Penang — Lim Jetty.

What pulled us to Lim Jetty instead of the more famous Chew Jetty was precisely the void of a crowd. Also, there are many decorative lights and lanterns along the jetty planks.

Lim Jetty is just a 10-min walk away from the Swettenham Pier, but do be there at least an hour before the stipulated boarding time.

Explore more places with Royal Caribbean

Penang’s Port Swettenham is one of the ports of calling cruise ships dock at during a voyage. Besides being a holiday itself, cruise-goers get to explore the surroundings of the various ports too! If you prefer a guided tour in Penang, there are  Shore Excursions  you can sign up for as well. Other ports of calls include Phuket and Port Klang.

For more cruise tailored land itineraries, check out our  Phuket itinerary and Port Klang itinerary !

Book Your Holiday Now With Royal Caribbean

Exclusive only to TTI readers, book a 4-Night Port Klang & Phuket Cruise at only $399*.

Between 1 – 25th Sep 2018, simply select from the following dates:  Nov 5 , Nov 12 , and Nov 19 , select ‘ Balcony ’, key in < RCTTI > under promo code and enjoy the discounted price of S$399*/pax on your ‘ Spacious Ocean View Balcony ’ rooms!

*Excluding taxes & fees

This post was brought to you by Royal Caribbean International .

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A post shared by The Travel Intern (@thetravelintern) on May 10, 2018 at 2:38am PDT

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Hi can i check the cruise that stop at Penang is at Swettenham Pier?

Hi Wing, yes Swettenham Pier.

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Island new port of call for cruises

Monday, 26 Aug 2024

(From left) Wong, Seck and Ham with the voyage calendar of Oceania Cruises. ­—ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star

Company’s decision a significant milestone for state’s tourism industry, says exco member

HAVING attracted 269,961 tourists in the first half of this year, Penang has been selected as one of Oceania Cruises’ ports of call in 2025.

Known for offering luxury voyages around the world, the cruise ship will carry up to 1,250 guests to Penang as well as various other destinations, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Shanghai.

Oceania Cruises Asia sales director Constance Seck said four of their ships will arrive in Penang next year.

“Riviera will arrive on Jan 8, followed by Insignia on March 20, Regatta on April 5 and Nautica on April 21.

“These ships do not have a home port and sail around the world.

“When they arrive at the ports of call, premium tours will be provided for passengers, with each stop lasting about eight hours,” she said.

State tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said Penang is honoured to have been selected, and the inclusion is a significant milestone for the state’s tourism industry.

“Strategically situated in South-East Asia, Penang has long been a premier destination for cruise ships.

“Being chosen by Oceania Cruises underscores our island’s unique appeal and the exceptional experiences we offer.

“Known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient,’ Penang has captivated travellers and traders for centuries.

“From its days as a vital spice trade centre to its current status as a melting pot of diverse cultures, Penang offers a rich blend of experiences,” he said during a ceremony to announce the cruise line’s arrival in Penang.

Wong added that Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) played a pivotal role in supporting the growth of cruise tourism in Penang, having welcomed 573,178 international transit passengers, along with 175,532 local passengers in 2023.

“These impressive numbers reflect the terminal’s capacity to handle large volumes of visitors efficiently, and further establishes Penang as a key maritime hub in the region.

“The recent upgrades to our terminal facilities, including the extension of our berths and the enhancement of passenger amenities have positioned SPCT as one of the leading cruise terminals in South-East Asia,” he added.

From January to June this year, Wong said 269,961 tourists arrived through SPCT, with the highest numbers from Singapore (41,435), followed by United Kingdom (14,829), India (11,967), United States (8,442), Indonesia (8,238), Germany (7,585) and China (7,378).

Also present was Xpedition Travel Sdn Bhd managing director Chanet Ham.

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Penang solar farm plan being floated

GEORGE TOWN: A floating solar farm – one large enough to power 6,000 homes – is being considered for Penang’s harbour.

Its primary purpose is to supply cruise ships with renewable energy, making Penang Port appealing for international cruise lines eager to use sustainably produced electricity.

The Star has learnt that this entails creating a solar farm that floats on a sheltered quarter of Penang’s harbour stretching over 4ha, the size of three World Cup football fields.

On a sunny day, it is expected to churn out 30 megawatts of electricity, which theoretically will be enough for 6,000 homes.

Tentatively, the potential site is between North Butterworth Container Terminal and Dermaga Dalam off mainland Penang.

This effort to produce electricity at sea is because come 2030, cruise ships may not call on ports without renewable energy (RE).

“The year 2030 is not a deadline but a goal proposed for the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to seriously look into RE, or cruise ships may not call on our ports unless certain measures are in place to reduce pollution,” said Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) chief executive officer Datuk Sasedharan Vasudevan.

Planning ahead, Sasedharan said preliminary feasibility studies are being conducted on using solar photovoltaic offshore floating farm system, which is a large-scale installation of solar panels.

“They float on water, such as oceans, lakes or reservoirs and the system harnesses the power of the sun to generate electricity.

“This system proposes to further increase the use of solar electricity in the PPSB terminal,” he said.

Sasedharan said the project focused on generating solar energy for consumption of the North Butterworth Container Terminal (NBCT) as there is no land or rooftop space at the container yard.

“Since we have proposed shore power at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal, the RE can be used to power the terminal and cruise ships,” he said.

The Star reported in February that RM50mil will be spent on this project.

“There are areas in Penang’s harbour calm enough for floating solar farm, but we need to ensure it is feasible.

“It makes sense to use RE for shore power rather than relying on the national power grid.

“The latest cruise lines are all pursuing RE as a major step in reducing pollution because a big cruise ship produces carbon equivalent to 20,000 cars,” added Sasedharan.

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Floating solar farm being considered for Penang Harbour

Picture for illustration only

A floating solar farm – one large enough to power 6,000 homes – is being considered for Penang’s harbour.

Its primary purpose is to supply cruise ships with renewable energy, making Penang Port appealing for international cruise lines eager to use sustainably produced electricity.

The Star has learnt that this entails creating a solar farm that floats on a sheltered quarter of Penang’s harbour stretching over 4ha, the size of three World Cup football fields.

On a sunny day, it is expected to churn out 30 megawatts of electricity, which theoretically will be enough for 6,000 homes.

Tentatively, the potential site is between North Butterworth Container Terminal and Dermaga Dalam off mainland Penang.

This effort to produce electricity at sea is because come 2030, cruise ships may not call on ports without renewable energy (RE).

“The year 2030 is not a deadline but a goal proposed for the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to seriously look into RE, or cruise ships may not call on our ports unless certain measures are in place to reduce pollution,” said Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) chief executive officer Datuk Sasedharan Vasudevan.

Planning ahead, Sasedharan said preliminary feasibility studies are being conducted on using solar photovoltaic offshore floating farm system, which is a large-scale installation of solar panels.

“They float on water, such as oceans, lakes or reservoirs and the system harnesses the power of the sun to generate electricity.

“This system proposes to further increase the use of solar electricity in the PPSB terminal,” he said.

Sasedharan said the project focused on generating solar energy for consumption of the North Butterworth Container Terminal (NBCT) as there is no land or rooftop space at the container yard.

“Since we have proposed shore power at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal, the RE can be used to power the terminal and cruise ships,” he said.

The Star reported in February that RM50mil will be spent on this project.

“There are areas in Penang’s harbour calm enough for floating solar farm, but we need to ensure it is feasible.

“It makes sense to use RE for shore power rather than relying on the national power grid.

“The latest cruise lines are all pursuing RE as a major step in reducing pollution because a big cruise ship produces carbon equivalent to 20,000 cars,” added Sasedharan.

Source: TheStar.com.my

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