Besides laying on the beach and gorging on street food, there are a couple of things you shouldn’t miss on your visit to Penang, Malaysia. One that stands out to me is the chance to take a dinner cruise.
What better way to experience the island than from the water while you watch the sunset over an amazing meal? If you agree with me, look no further than Blue Whale Cruises.
The ‘blue whale’ is a 47-foot boat that is fully air-conditioned, with toilet, spacious salon and a completely equipped galley and it comfortably accommodates up to 16 people. There is seating on the front deck, where you can sit to observe the sunset and room for 2 round dining tables in the salon where you will have your dinner.
Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei (Travel Guide)
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Our night started when we arrived at Straights Quay Marina and boarded the Blue Whale. We were greeted by the owner, Eileen, with bright tropical drinks the minute we stepped on board. Our cruise would last 3 hours over which time would be a good conversation and beautiful scenery.
We started out by relaxing on the front of the boat with a few drinks as we made our way out of the marina and into the open water. Our path would take us to the giant bridge that links mainland Malaysia with the island of Penang.
The boat took its time getting here to allow the sun to begin setting around us. Upon turning back, we were offered some amazing views of the sun setting behind the bridge and the city of Georgetown.
Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, we were served dinner on the lower deck of the boat. We were met by one of the most beautiful dinners I have ever seen. All of the dishes were laid out in an ornamental fashion and accented by beautiful, brightly colored fruit.
Each dish was cooked to perfection and we couldn’t help but take seconds on many of them.
The best part is that Eileen prepared and cooked all the dishes we were served that night. They all had a special touch. Lingering around the table didn’t last long as the sky began to light up in brilliant pink tones when the sun finished hiding behind the hills of the island.
Having a clear sky and a brilliant evening just added to an already great time on the water. If you are looking for a unique way to see the Georgetown skyline at sunset then a dinner cruise may just be the answer you are looking for.
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Dinner Cruise Information
Not only does she offer a sunset dinner cruise, but a variety of different options and excursions to show you the unique side of Penang from the water.
Getting There: We were staying in Ferringhi and hopped on the local 101 bus that dropped us right at the Straights Quay bus stop. The cost was RM1.40 ($0.50USD) per person and took around 20 minutes.
Any bus from Georgetown headed towards Ferringhi will get you there for the same price. Alternatively, you could hail a taxi from your hotel and have them drop you off at the main entrance to Straights Quay. Once you enter Straights Quay, follow the signs to the Marina where you will find the Blue Whale.
The cruise we took was the Evening Sunset Dinner Cruise, which lasted 3 hours and included welcome beverages, a huge meal, and fruit for RM340 ($110USD)per person.
Disclosure: We were guests of Blue Whale Cruises. However, all opinions are 100% mine. All photos were taken and owned by Divergent Travelers.
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Article by Lina Stock
Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA
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