Star Clippers Sailing To New Horizons In 2020
1st February 2019
A few weeks ago, we told you about the launch of our new Summer 2020 Preview Brochure, which you can either view online or order a copy direct to your door. Inside, you will see that we have some exciting new destinations amongst our South-East Asia cruises, offering even more variety in the ports we visit and the experiences we can offer.
Here's a quick look at some of the new horizons you could be exploring with us in 2020.
Koh Samui, Thailand
The picturesque island of Koh Samui will serve as a starting and finishing point for a selection of cruises in April and October 2020. This popular patch of land has so many great beaches that you’re sure to find one that suits you. From bustling tourist spots to quieter coves and laid-back sands, you can be as active (or inactive) as you like.
If you want to discover some of the local culture, the best place to go is Bophut Fisherman’s Village. Here, traditional buildings sit side-by-side with luxury resorts and, if you’re lucky enough to visit on a Friday, the weekly Walking Street Market will offer somewhere to taste local delights and pick up a few souvenirs.
Another sight you shouldn’t miss is the Big Buddha. Located on a tiny island that’s joined to Koh Samui by a walkway, the 12-foot golden statue can be seen from quite a distance. In the surrounding area, there are lots of little temples, including one back on the main island dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy.
Choose to enjoy a pre or post-cruise stay in Koh Samui and you’ll get to enjoy one of the famous sunrises and sunsets in this beautiful place.
Miri, Malaysia
Having started life as a place where people went in search of oil, the city of Miri now attracts tourists for vastly different reasons. This is the gateway to a range of different national parks that allow you to see breathtaking natural sights such as waterfalls, caves and dense jungle. Niah National Park and Gunung Mulu National Park are both known for their impressive cave systems, whilst the wetlands of Loagan Bunut National Park are ideal for bird watchers.
The encounters with nature don’t stop their though, as Miri’s coastline is a great place to explore beneath the waves. Divers can enjoy the sight of colourful fish and exotic coral reefs unspoiled by tourism or environmental issues.
If you want to get a better idea of what Miri looks like, a hike to the top of Bukit Telaga Minyak (Canada Hill) will present you with fantastic views of this city with a small town feel.
Sihanoukville, Cambodia
One of two new destinations in Cambodia you can visit, Sihanoukville has sprung to life in recent years after rapid development. By day, you can lounge on one of the relaxing beaches as the gentle breeze flows through your hair, whilst the evening brings out groups of partygoers keen to sample the lively bars and restaurants along the seafront. If you choose to join them, you can be sure to find some delicious, fresh seafood on the menu.
Pulau Tiga, Malaysia
Another interesting new destination on Borneo, Pulau Tiga is a small island off its larger neighbour’s northern coast. It was used as the location for the first ever series of the American TV show ‘Survivor’, so you can imagine the kind of remote and peaceful environment you can expect.
The perfect place for water sports like kayaking and diving, Pulau Tiga can also offer the chance to spot some interesting wildlife such as hornbills and eagles. Plus, if you decide to trek through the jungle to the island’s centre, you’ll be greeted by the famous mud volcanoes that can be used as soothing natural spas.
Koh Rong, Cambodia
Koh Rong is Cambodia’s second-largest island and lies off the coast of the Sihanoukville, which also appears on our list. As well as the pristine beaches, one of the main attractions on this car-free paradise is the glowing plankton that appears when the sun goes down, something you may have seen images of in the past. The bioluminescence of these tiny sea creatures is most affective in areas where there is little light pollution, so you may have to venture away from the main beaches to see this mesmerising sight.
If you’re not too keen on the party atmosphere of the main tourist areas at Koh Touch, head to one of the quieter beaches to really feel relaxed. Lonely Beach and Palm Beach are much more laid back and the perfect places for catching up on some reading or topping up your tan.
If you would like to know more about how to visit these brand new destination on our South-East Asia cruises, call the Star Clippers team on 0845 200 6145. You can also use our online chat feature to speak to an advisor.
