Harbour Cruise

More than 600 years ago, the renowned Chinese Admiral Cheng Ho embarked on his grand and brave mission to discover new lands and peoples. Between the period 1405 and 1433, as commander of the Chinese Imperial fleet numbering more than 300 ships and 27000 men, he sailed across the oceans and seas, spreading China’s influence to Southeast Asia, India, the Middle East and Africa. Some accounts say he also reached America – several years before Christopher Columbus.

Now you can experience the fun of sailing in a modern Chinese junk, designed and built to replicate the imperial splendor, of centuries ago. The vessel is modeled after the famous ship Da Fu (number four) of the ing Dynasty, when Chinese naval power was supreme.

This contemporary junk, with pagoda roof, ornately carved Imperial dragons  by her flanks and tiger’s head at the bow, cuts a striking swathe across the southern waters of Singapore.

The 43m long steel-hulled vessel takes 200 passengers comfortably. Sit in air-conditioned comfort on the main, second deck or third deck, or climb up to the observation aft0castle to enjoy the fresh sea freeze as the boat cruises smoothly through the harbour and outlying islands.

Cruising in the western anchorage, imagine how it would have appeared to Admiral Cheng Ho centuries ago. Instead of the large ships anchored here, waiting for quarantine and immigration clearance to enter the port of Singapore, e would have been greeted by small fishing boats.

On Kusu Island, also known as Turtle island, visit an ancient Chinese temple, a terrapin sanctuary and a Malay shrine. During the ninth lunar month, the temple attracts thousands of pilgrims, praying for good health, babies and a peaceful life.