Brunei Darussalam recorded a significant milestone in its cruise tourism sector with the consecutive arrivals of two major international cruise vessels at the Muara Cruise Ship Centre.
On 13 December 2025, the Norwegian Sun made its call to Brunei, bringing approximately 1,902 passengers and 910 crew members, followed by the arrival of the Costa Serena on 14 December 2025, carrying around 2,741 passengers and 1,042 crew members. These back-to-back arrivals represent one of the largest combined cruise movements in the country’s history.
The cruise ship passengers were warmly welcomed with traditional Hadrah performances and cultural showcases, creating a festive atmosphere that reflected Brunei’s hospitality and rich heritage.
Visitors were also welcomed at the Muara Cruise Ship Centre with displays of locally made handicrafts, woven products, traditional textiles and Bruneian delicacies, providing meaningful opportunities for local artisans and small businesses to engage directly with international visitors
Passengers participated in a curated shore excursion to Brunei’s key attractions, including Kampong Ayer, the Royal Regalia Museum, Istana Nurul Iman, and scenic river cruises. Many visitors also experienced Brunei’s natural offerings through mangrove and river eco-tours, where they observed the country’s biodiversity, including sightings of proboscis monkeys, while learning about Brunei’s environmental conservation efforts.
Visitors’ feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many passengers praising Brunei’s peaceful atmosphere, cleanliness, safety and hospitality. Denise Smith, a first-time visitor from New York City, described Brunei as “very clean, very quiet and very rich,” adding that she felt safe throughout her visit and would “definitely come again.”
Another first-time visitor, Leonard Sasin from California, who travelled with his wife Ruth, shared that they “loved it” and highly recommended the destination after enjoying a customised tour to the Sultan’s Palace, museums and mosques, followed by lunch at The Empire Brunei. He also expressed interest in returning to experience Brunei’s golf offerings, reflecting the destination’s appeal to a wide range of cruise travellers.
The maiden arrival of the Norwegian Sun and the return visit of the Costa Serena further reinforce Brunei Darussalam’s growing reputation as an emerging cruise destination in Southeast Asia. Earlier in November, Brunei also welcomed the second visit of the Blue Dream Melody, carrying 1,154 passengers and 346 crew members.
With 14 cruise ship arrivals recorded so far in 2025, the Sultanate continues to strengthen its appeal for international cruise tourism and is set to conclude the year’s cruise calendar with the arrival of the Coral Geographer on 28 December 2025.
THE BRUNEIAN
