Port information & tips for Sandakan
Sandakan is the gateway to Borneo's wild nature and welcomes travelers as a fascinating destination on Malaysia's picturesque east coast. The former capital of the region impresses with its authentic flair and a harmonious combination of colonial history and lush rainforest. Unmissable highlights include the world-famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, which offer deep insights into species conservation thanks to their accessibility, while the historic Agnes Keith House invites you on a journey through time. Cruise ships dock at the centrally located Sandakan Port, from where the vibrant city center with the Sandakan Central Market and the waterfront promenade is easily reachable in just a few minutes.
Sandakan, an important cruise port on the northeast coast of Sabah on the island of Borneo, is usually reached by guests from the DACH region as part of a fly & cruise journey. Given the long journey, an overnight stay before embarkation is recommended to start your adventure in a relaxed manner. The port is well connected to the local transport network and is located close to the city center.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Sandakan Airport (SDK), which is located approximately 10 to 17 kilometers from the port and city center. There are no direct long-haul flights from Europe; instead, travel is via major hubs in Malaysia, such as Kuala Lumpur (KUL) or Kota Kinabalu (BKI), with connecting flights to Sandakan.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Sandakan Airport (SDK), you can easily reach the cruise terminal or your hotel by taxi or ride-hailing services such as Grab. The journey time is approximately 19 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis usually cost between 25 and 40 Malaysian Ringgit, and it is advisable to pay the fare at the official airport counter to obtain a fixed price. Alternatively, numerous providers offer private transfers that you can book in advance to ensure a smooth transition.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
For a stress-free start to your cruise in Sandakan, arriving the day before with an overnight stay in one of the local hotels is highly recommended. In Sandakan city center, you will find a selection of hotels, including the Elopura Hotel or the Sabah Hotel Sandakan, which are often located near the port and provide a good base for exploring the city. This allows you to recover from the long journey and board the ship well-rested.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the latest announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
