Brunei Darussalam recorded a significant moment for its cruise tourism sector at the end of 2025 following the consecutive arrival of two large international cruise ships at the Muara Cruise Ship Centre.
On 13th December 2025, the Norwegian Sun docked with about 1,902 passengers and 910 crew members. It was followed on 14th December by the Costa Serena, carrying around 2,741 passengers and 1,042 crew members. Together, the visits represented one of the largest combined cruise movements in the country’s history.
Passengers were welcomed with traditional Hadrah performances and cultural presentations, creating a festive atmosphere that highlighted Brunei’s hospitality and cultural heritage. The reception formed part of broader efforts to leave a strong first impression on visiting cruise travellers.
At the Muara Cruise Ship Centre, visitors explored displays of locally produced handicrafts, woven goods, traditional textiles, and Bruneian delicacies. The showcases gave local artisans and small businesses direct access to international visitors during the ships’ port calls.
During their stay, passengers joined organised shore excursions to key landmarks including Kampong Ayer, the Royal Regalia Museum, Istana Nurul Iman, and river cruises around the capital. Others took part in mangrove and river eco tours, where they observed wildlife such as proboscis monkeys and learned about national conservation efforts.
Many visitors responded positively to their experience, praising the country’s calm environment, cleanliness, and sense of safety. Several said the welcome they received stood out compared with other regional ports.
Denise Smith, a first time visitor from New York City, described Brunei as “very clean, very quiet and very rich.” She said she felt safe throughout her visit and added that she would “definitely come again.”
Another first time visitor, Leonard Sasin from California, who travelled with his wife Ruth, said they “loved it” and recommended the destination after a customised tour of 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.
The maiden call by the Norwegian Sun and the return of the Costa Serena contributed to a steady increase in cruise activity throughout 2025. Earlier in November, Brunei hosted the Blue Dream Melody on its second visit, carrying 1,154 passengers and 346 crew members.
In total, 14 cruise ship arrivals were recorded in 2025. The year concluded with the Coral Geographer docking on 28th December 2025. Tourism authorities view the growing number of port calls as part of ongoing efforts to establish Brunei as a regular stop on regional cruise itineraries.
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