FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Booking & General Information

Does North Borneo Sunset Dinner Cruise operate daily?

Yes, our North Borneo Sunset Dinner Cruise operates daily from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

How long is the North Borneo Sunset Dinner Cruise?

The North Borneo Sunset Dinner Cruise in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah runs for approximately 2 hours, departing at 5:30 PM and returning at 7:30 PM.

What is the Malaysian Rate and who is eligible?

The Malaysian Rate is a special rate for:

  • Malaysian Passport holders
  • MyKad holders
  • Overseas Malaysians holding Malaysian Passport
  • Non-Malaysians residing in Malaysia with valid visa such as MM2H, PR, expatriate or work permit
  • Spouse of Malaysian with valid visa

MyKad or Passport verification is required during registration before boarding the Sunset Dinner Cruise.

How do I book the North Borneo Sunset Dinner Cruise?

It’s simple!

Online Booking: Once you have decided to go onboard with North Borneo Cruises, you can immediately proceed to book the tour online and make payment via credit card. Your Booking Confirmation, Tour Itinerary, and E-Ticket Vouchers will be immediately ready for your download upon payment. You can make your booking HERE.

Email Booking: If you have any enquiries, feel free to call our hotline +60 12 885 2009 or email us at info@northborneocruises.com

Do I need to book in advance or I can book directly at the jetty before departure?

We highly recommend for you to book your North Borneo Cruises tour ticket in advance, as our North Borneo Cruises sells fast daily! We do also accept walk-in bookings, but it is subject to seat availability.

How do I make payment for my booking?

We accept payment via the following payment modes: Cash/Cheque, Credit Card,  Bank Transfer (Maybank).

Can I pay for my cruise tickets upon arrival?

We require advance full payment to confirm your seats for the cruise session. If we have not received full payment before the cruise departure, we reserve the right to release any bookings.

Does the price include insurance? If so, what is the coverage?

Yes, the price includes public liability insurance.

However, we strongly recommend you purchase a comprehensive Personal Travel Insurance policy immediately in your country for the duration of your trip in Sabah, Malaysia to cover against personal accidents, loss of baggage, delays, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements, cancellations, and emergency medical evacuations.

Will I receive a refund if I choose not to proceed due to weather, even if the cruise still operates?

If you have purchased our Rain Check Flexi Cover, you will get a refund (excluding the Rain Check Flexi Cover Fee) on your North Borneo Cruises tour ticket in cases of bad weather.

You will receive the refund within 14 - 28 working days after the cancellation of your tour. Alternatively, we encourage you to purchase the Rain Check Basic Cover which allows you to reschedule your North Borneo Cruises tour to another date, 2 hours prior to the boarding time if you are uncomfortable to proceed based on unfavourable weather forecasts.

If you have NOT purchased either of the covers mentioned above, there will be NO refund should you decide not to proceed with the North Borneo Cruises tour.

What is the cancellation policy for North Borneo Cruises?

All Sunset Dinner Cruise bookings are non-refundable once confirmed.

Refunds or rescheduling are only available if you have purchased:

  • Rain Check Basic Cover
  • Rain Check Flexi Cover

The Rain Check Flexi Cover guarantees you a refund should you be unable to proceed with the cruise due to a valid reason such as bad weather or flight delays.

Refunds are processed within 14 to 28 working days cancellation.

What is the Rain Check Basic Cover?

Our Rain Check Basic Cover (no expiration date) allows you to reschedule your North Borneo Cruises tour 2 hours prior to the boarding time due to bad weather conditions. You have the option to join this tour at any future date. This cover can be purchased at RM48/pax.

What Is the Rain Check Flexi Cover?

Our Rain Check Flexi Cover entitles you to a full refund of your North Borneo Cruises ticket price (excluding Rain Check Flexi Cover fee) in the event of bad weather, such as rain. You will receive your refund within 14 working days after the cancellation of your tour. This cover can be purchased at RM68/pax.

North Borneo Cruises will continue to operate in normal rain conditions except for extreme/severe weather forecasts whereby the Marine Department deems conditions unsafe for cruising. If such severe conditions result in a cancellation by us, a full refund will be provided. Otherwise, the cruise will continue as usual (either Cruising or Non-Cruising), and no full refunds will be made, unless Rain Check Flexi Cover is purchased.

Can we postpone our Sunset Dinner Cruise due to flight delays, sickness, etc?

Yes, postponement may be considered under certain conditions.

If you are unable to attend your cruise due to valid reasons such as:

  • Flight delays
  • Medical conditions
  • Emergencies

You must provide supporting documents at least 7 days before your scheduled cruise date.

Last-minute postponement requests made 2 to 3 days before departure or on the cruise day will incur a RM50/pax.

For maximum flexibility and refund protection, guests are strongly advised to purchase Rain Check Flexi Cover when booking the Sunset Dinner Cruise in Kota Kinabalu.

What is the cruise route for the North Borneo Cruises?

The cruise route will circle along the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park islands and along the Kota Kinabalu City Waterfront.

Where is the North Borneo Cruises departure point?

North Borneo Cruises departs from Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty. Find us on Google Maps.

What is the easiest way to get to the North Borneo Cruises departure point?

North Borneo Cruises departs from Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty, Kota Kinabalu.

By Taxi or Grab

  • From Kota Kinabalu city centre: approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic
  • From Kota Kinabalu International Airport: approximately 20 minutes
  • Grab ride-hailing services are widely available in Sabah

By Car

If you are not familiar with Kota Kinabalu City, navigate your way to Sutera Harbour Resort.

Watch our video HERE on how to get to the North Borneo Cruises departure point.

Is there parking available near the cruise departure point?

Yes, complimentary and secure parking is available for all our guests. The car park is conveniently located near the jetty at Sutera Harbour Resort. For your peace of mind, the entire premises are monitored by security guards, ensuring your vehicle is safe while you enjoy your sunset cruise.

Sutera Harbour Resort offers 3 car parks at different locations within the resort and walking distance to the cruise departure point:

  • Magellan Sutera Resort
  • Pacific Sutera Hotel
  • Marina Clubhouse

For more information about parking and how to get to the meeting point by car, watch our video HERE.

Do you provide hotel pick up and drop off services?

Yes, we can include return hotel transfers from Kota Kinabalu City / Kota Kinabalu International Airport to the Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty. The return transfers are chargeable.

What time should I arrive at the jetty?

You must arrive at Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty at least 30 minutes prior to boarding time (5:00 P.M).

What document should I bring to the North Borneo Cruises?

Please bring your valid ID (MyKad/Passport) for verification when registering for your cruise.

Who should I contact when I arrive at the jetty?

We will provide you with directions to the Registration & Boarding Point of North Borneo Cruises.

In case you are lost or require further help, you may contact our North Borneo Cruises Operations Hotlines +6012 885 2009 / +6012 852 8009.

How are the seats arranged during the cruise?

All seats will be assigned automatically. If you wish to choose a table, we offer the option to reserve a table for a small surcharge.

Please check with our Tour Consultant for availability.

  • Window Table: MYR 75/pax (min 2 pax)
  • Round Table: MYR 50/pax (min 2 pax)
  • High Stool Table: MYR 50/pax
North Borneo Cruises seating layout
Do you provide special arrangements for birthdays or anniversary celebrations?

For birthdays and anniversary celebrations, we can prepare a slice of cake for an additional charge of RM20.

We can also provide additional customised arrangements such as whole cake orders, flower bouquets, balloon decorations, and more at reasonable rates.

Can I bring my own birthday cake on board the cruise?

Yes, you can. There will be an additional charge of MYR 20 if you are bringing your own cake.

Is there a dress code for the North Borneo Cruise?

We recommend smart casual attire for our cruises. While we want you to be comfortable, we kindly ask that you choose respectful and appropriate clothing. To ensure a pleasant experience for all guests, swimwear, shirtless attire, and clothing with offensive designs are not permitted on board.

I am a Muslim. Is there a prayer room (surau) on board North Borneo Cruises?

There is no prayer room (surau) onboard North Borneo Cruises; however, there are prayer rooms for both male and females in each of the Sutera Harbour Resort properties, The Magellan, The Marina and The Pacific Sutera which are open to public.

If I am a non-Malaysian residing in Malaysia, will I be eligible for the same rate as Malaysians?

Certainly, provided you hold a valid visa such as MM2H, expatriate, PR, or a valid working permit/visa.

If I am unable to participate due to personal reasons, can I have someone else (friends or relatives) take my place?

Certainly, subject to a charge of MYR 30/pax for updating the new guest's details.

Is there free Wi-Fi available on board?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available onboard.

Is the North Borneo Cruises ship air-conditioned?

Yes, the indoor areas of the North Borneo Cruises ship are air-conditioned for your comfort. Guests can enjoy dining in our fully air-conditioned restaurant, which offers a pleasant and cool atmosphere while you savour the international buffet and live band entertainment.

Our VIP Room is also air-conditioned, providing an extra level of comfort and exclusivity for private functions or special occasions.

Do I need to wear the official wristband on North Borneo Cruises?

Yes. All guests joining the North Borneo Cruises Sunset Dinner Cruise are required to always wear the official wristband during the cruise.

The wristband:

  • Serves as proof of booking and identity verification
  • Forms part of our onboard safety protocol
  • Allows crew to manage guest access and security

Guests who refuse to wear the wristband may be denied boarding or removed from the cruise.

Can I fly a drone during the North Borneo Sunset Dinner Cruise?

Drone operations are subject to strict regulations in Malaysia. Guests who wish to fly a drone must first obtain the required permit from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM).

Additionally, drone use onboard is only permitted with the captain’s prior approval, considering safety and privacy concerns. For the comfort and security of all guests, unauthorised drone flying is strictly prohibited during the cruise.

What kind of live band performances are there?

Our resident band offers daily stellar live musical performances and genres in different languages as you enjoy your dinner.

Expect to be dancing around the tables to the rhythm of traditional local songs and be entertained with upbeat tunes of popular music from around the world. These guys really know how to complete the atmosphere for a fun and entertaining night out. They are also happy to accept song requests.

Do you have karaoke facilities on board?

Yes, our VIP Room is equipped with karaoke facilities. The VIP Room can hold 20 to 25 people comfortably and is suitable for small private gatherings.

Safety

Would it be bumpy on North Borneo Cruises if it is raining?

In the event of bumpy sea conditions, the cruise route will be altered to cruise along the coastline of Kota Kinabalu without going into open sea waters. Any route changes are for the comfort of our passengers.

If weather conditions are deemed unsafe by the Marine Department, the cruise will be cancelled.

I am pregnant. Can I still go onboard North Borneo Cruises?

Yes. The Sunset Dinner Cruise is a 2-hour leisure cruise along the shoreline of Kota Kinabalu and is generally smooth and stable.

However:

  • Please inform our staff in advance
  • Consult your doctor before travelling at any stage of pregnancy

Your comfort and safety remain your responsibility during the cruise.

Is there any age restriction? Is it safe for elderly guests?

There is no minimum or maximum age limit for North Borneo Cruises.

The Sunset Dinner Cruise is suitable for elderly guests and families, provided all safety instructions are followed.

Children aged 11 years and below must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times.

Can guests jump into the sea during the cruise?

Jumping into the sea from North Borneo Cruises is STRICTLY PROHIBITED.

For more important guidelines, be sure to watch our Do’s & Don’ts video HERE.

I am prone to seasickness. Can I still join the cruise?

North Borneo Cruises is large and stable, which minimises rocking motion.

It will help if you spend more time on the Sun Deck and enjoy the fresh breeze and open views during the cruise.

However, if you are very prone to seasickness, we suggest that you take motion sickness pills 30 minutes before departure.

Important Note: North Borneo Cruises does not distribute medicine of any kind onboard for safety precaution, as we do not know whether you may be allergic to a particular drug.

Is North Borneo Cruises wheelchair or stroller-friendly?

Yes. Our cruise is accessible via ramp for wheelchairs and baby strollers. Please inform us in advance if you require special assistance.

Passengers with disabilities must be accompanied by a caretaker/guardian. North Borneo Cruises crew and cruise attendants will assist with boarding but are not responsible for personal mobility during the cruise.

Children aged 11 years and below must be supervised by an adult at all times.

What is the safety procedure standard that North Borneo Cruises follows?

You may refer to our Safety Procedure HERE.

Adverse Weather Conditions

Will I receive a refund if I decide not to proceed with the North Borneo Cruises due to weather concerns, even though it will be operating for the day?

Only if you have purchased our Rain Check Flexi Cover, you will get a refund for your North Borneo Cruises tour ticket in case of bad weather, excluding the Rain Check Flexi Cover Fee. You will receive the refund within 14 - 28 working days after the cancellation of your tour.

Alternatively, we encourage you to purchase the Rain Check Basic Cover, which allows you to reschedule your North Borneo Cruises tour to another date, up to 2 hours prior to the boarding time if you are uncomfortable to proceed based on unfavourable weather forecasts.

If you have NOT purchased either of the covers mentioned above, there will be NO refund should you decide not to proceed with the North Borneo Cruises tour.

In the unlikely event that North Borneo Cruises is unable to operate on that day and provide its standard food and entertainment services and facilities use, apart from bad weather and sea conditions, you will be given options for alternative cruise dates or compensation for services not received.

What happens if the cruise departs but needs to return to the jetty and remain docked due to unforeseen bad weather? Can I receive a partial refund?

If weather conditions become unsafe during the North Borneo Cruises session, the captain may return the cruise to the jetty for safety reasons.

The Sunset Dinner Cruise will continue while docked, including buffet service and live entertainment.

No refund or partial refund will be provided in this situation.

Worried about bad weather? Find out how our Rain Check Basic Cover and Rain Check Flexi Cover options can provide peace of mind for your cruise experience!

Will North Borneo Cruises provide an umbrella for me if it is raining?

We strongly recommend you bring your own umbrella in the event of rain, as the walkway to the cruise at Sutera Marina Jetty does not have shelter. North Borneo Cruises does not provide umbrellas for use.

Food & Beverages

Is the food on North Borneo Cruises halal?

Yes, our restaurant food is prepared and handled in a Halal-certified kitchen.

However, North Borneo Cruises does not have an official Halal certificate as we serve alcoholic beverages on board.

What type of food do you serve on North Borneo Sunset Dinner Cruise?

For Sunset Dinner Cruise, we provide a full international buffet dinner spread, including Chinese, Western, Japanese, and Malay cuisines. You may view the menu HERE.

Can I bring outside food and drinks to the Sunset Dinner Cruise?

We do not allow outside food and drinks onboard our cruise to maintain food safety standards and comply with local health regulations.

If you have specific dietary requirements or concerns, please feel free to enquire about the available options for you. For private charters, you may bring your own alcohol onboard.

Corkage Fee Charges:

  • Soju: MYR 5/bottle
  • Sparkling Juice: MYR 30/bottle
  • Beer: MYR 110/carton
  • Wine: MYR 50/bottle
  • Champagne: MYR 100/bottle
  • Liquor or Spirits (750ml): MYR 100/bottle
  • Liquor or Spirits (1L): MYR 120/bottle
I have special dietary requirements. Does North Borneo Cruises cater to vegetarians?

Yes, we do. Kindly inform the team at least 1 day in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.

For last-minute dietary requests, we are unable to cater special arrangements, but you may choose the dishes that you are comfortable to eat from the main buffet dinner spread. The standard buffet spread has several vegetarian options to choose from.

Can I still take food from the main buffet table if I have the vegetarian meal set?

Yes, you are welcome to have any of the vegetarian dishes available.

Do you sell alcohol onboard?

Yes, we do. We offer a selection of beers and House Pour Wine (Red/White) onboard. Beer brands are subject to availability.

Can I bring my own alcohol to the North Borneo Cruises? If yes, how much are the corkage fees?

You are not allowed to bring your own alcohol onboard, as we already serve in-house drinks. For private charters, you may bring your own alcohol onboard, and the following Corkage Fees are applicable:

  • Wine: MYR 50/bottle
  • Beer: MYR 100/carton
  • Liquors or Spirits (750ml): MYR 100/bottle
Do the corkage fees include mixers?

No, the corkage fees do not include mixers. However, we do offer soft drinks and juices on board which can be ordered ala carte.

Can I bring my own mixers?

No, since we offer mixer drinks onboard, you may purchase from us directly if you need it.

Can I bring food home from North Borneo Cruises?

No, takeaway of any food or beverages from North Borneo Cruises is not permitted. All meals served are meant to be enjoyed onboard as part of the cruise experience.

Will I be charged for unfinished food?

Yes, we have a zero-waste policy when it comes to food. Each 100g leftover incurs a charge of MYR 10.

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