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Kota Kinabalu Cruise Port

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Kota Kinabalu is the capital of the Malaysian state of Sabah, located on the northwest coast of Borneo.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#288
of 490 ports in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Today · high / low
86° / 70°
October normals
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia cruise port
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
// Kota Kinabalu cruise port overview

The cruise port in Kota Kinabalu,
explained

Lat: 6.0°NLong: 116.1°ETimezone: Asia/KuchingINTN code: BKI

Kota Kinabalu is the capital of the Malaysian state of Sabah, located on the northwest coast of Borneo. It is a vibrant city with a population of over 450,000 people, and is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning natural beauty.

The city is home to a number of attractions, including the Sabah State Mosque, the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, and the Kota Kinabalu Wetlands Centre. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a number of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.

Kota Kinabalu is also a great place to shop, with a variety of markets, malls, and boutiques to explore. The city is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Sabah State Museum, the Sabah Art Gallery, and the Sabah Cultural Centre.

With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions, Kota Kinabalu is a great destination for anyone looking for a unique and exciting holiday.

Ships visiting
4 lines
6 ships call at Kota Kinabalu
Peak passenger day
2,402
cruise passengers ashore
Excursions from
$24
per person · 36 tours
Most ships dock at
11:00 AM
arrival for 40% of calls
Excursions in Kota Kinabalu start at $24.
Browse Kota Kinabalu excursions
// Kota Kinabalu Cruise Deals

Price drops on cruises to Kota Kinabalu

51 cruises stop here in Kota Kinabalu during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each Kota Kinabalu cruise's 90-day average.

Prices refreshed daily
Nautica
Nautica cruise ship
8% offsuite
Oceania Cruise Line

Nautica, 11-night cruise departing Jan 31, 2027

Jan 31, 2027 · 11 nights
from: Bangkok
$736/ night
$8,099 total, 8% off was $8,802 avg
Norwegian Jade
Norwegian Jade cruise ship
7% offoceanview
Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Jade, 13-night cruise departing Feb 9, 2027

Feb 9, 2027 · 13 nights
from: Singapore
$290/ night
$3,771 total, 7% off was $4,071 avg
Seven Seas Explorer
Seven Seas Explorer cruise ship
6% offsuite
Regent Seven Seas

Seven Seas Explorer, 11-night cruise departing Dec 11, 2027

Dec 11, 2027 · 11 nights
from: Singapore
$589/ night
$6,484 total, 6% off was $6,929 avg
Norwegian Jade
Norwegian Jade cruise ship
6% offsuite
Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Jade, 12-night cruise departing Jan 28, 2027

Jan 28, 2027 · 12 nights
from: Hong Kong
$438/ night
$5,259 total, 6% off was $5,605 avg
Norwegian Jade
Norwegian Jade cruise ship
6% offsuite
Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Jade, 14-night cruise departing Jan 3, 2027

Jan 3, 2027 · 14 nights
from: Hong Kong
$316/ night
$4,419 total, 6% off was $4,707 avg
Nautica
Nautica cruise ship
6% offinside
Oceania Cruise Line

Nautica, 15-night cruise departing Dec 21, 2026

Dec 21, 2026 · 15 nights
from: Hong Kong
$460/ night
$6,899 total, 6% off was $7,338 avg
Crystal Serenity
Crystal Serenity cruise ship
3% offsuite
Crystal Cruises

Crystal Serenity, 13-night cruise departing Apr 10, 2027

Apr 10, 2027 · 13 nights
from: Laem Chabang
$845/ night
$10,989 total, 3% off was $11,341 avg
Crystal Serenity
Crystal Serenity cruise ship
3% offsuite
Crystal Cruises

Crystal Serenity, 139-night cruise departing Jan 8, 2027

Jan 8, 2027 · 139 nights
from: San Diego
$754/ night
$104,800 total, 3% off was $107,915 avg
// Kota Kinabalu Cruise Port location

Where is Kota Kinabalu Cruise Port?

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia is located on the northwest coast of the island of Borneo. It is the capital of the state of Sabah and is a popular tourist destination. The cruise port is located in the city center, near the waterfront and close to many of the city's attractions. It is easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi.

General location
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Coordinates
6.00°N, 116.08°E
Time zone
Asia/Kuching
Cruise port · 6.00°N, 116.08°E
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Kota Kinabalu cruise port guide

What to do in Kota Kinabalu

A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.

Ways to spend the day

3 themes
Theme 1

Hiking

Hiking is a popular activity in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. The city is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, providing a great opportunity for visitors to explore the area. There are a number of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult. Popular trails include the Kinabalu National Park, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the Crocker Range, which is home to a variety of wildlife. Hiking is a great way to experience the beauty of the Malaysian rainforest.

Theme 2

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is a popular activity in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. The crystal clear waters of the South China Sea provide an ideal environment for snorkeling, with a variety of colorful fish and coral to explore. There are many snorkeling spots around the city, including the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, which is home to a variety of marine life. Snorkeling is a great way to experience the beauty of the ocean and its inhabitants.

Theme 3

Island Hopping

Island hopping is a popular activity in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. There are a number of islands located off the coast of the city, each with its own unique attractions. Visitors can explore the islands by boat, taking in the stunning views of the South China Sea and the lush tropical vegetation. Popular islands to visit include Gaya Island, Manukan Island, and Sapi Island, each of which offers a variety of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Kota Kinabalu cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
M
Mari Mari Cultural Village Beach (illustrative photo)

Mari Mari Cultural Village Beach

Mari Mari Cultural Village Beach is another popular beach near Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia cruise port. This beach is located just a few kilometers away from the city center and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning views of the South China Sea. The beach is lined with palm trees and is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the area. Visitors can also take part in cultural activities at the nearby Mari Mari Cultural Village, which offers a unique insight into the local culture and traditions.

M
Manukan Island Beach (illustrative photo)

Manukan Island Beach

Manukan Island Beach is one of the most popular beaches near Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia cruise port. It is located just a few kilometers away from the city center and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning views of the South China Sea. The beach is lined with palm trees and is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the area. Visitors can also take part in various water sports activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and jet skiing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby for visitors to enjoy.

T
Tanjung Aru Beach (illustrative photo)

Tanjung Aru Beach

Tanjung Aru Beach is one of the most popular beaches near Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia cruise port. It is located just a few kilometers away from the city center and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning views of the South China Sea. The beach is lined with palm trees and is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the area. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby for visitors to enjoy.

// Kota Kinabalu fun facts

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a group of five islands located off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. It is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, and is home to a variety of coral reefs, sea turtles, and other marine life. It is also a great spot for beach-goers, with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

Kota Kinabalu City Mosque

The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is a stunning architectural masterpiece located in the heart of the city. It is the largest mosque in Sabah and is a popular tourist attraction. It features a unique blend of traditional Islamic architecture and modern design, and is surrounded by a beautiful garden and reflecting pool. It is a great place to visit and learn about the local culture and religion.

Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia, standing at 4,095 meters (13,435 feet) tall. It is located in the Crocker Range on the island of Borneo in the state of Sabah. It is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and is home to a variety of unique flora and fauna. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kota Kinabalu cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
K
Kota Kinabalu Central Market (illustrative photo)

Kota Kinabalu Central Market

Kota Kinabalu Central Market is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts. Located near the cruise port, this market offers a wide variety of items, from traditional Sabah handicrafts to modern souvenirs. You can find everything from traditional wood carvings to colorful textiles and jewelry. The prices are very reasonable and the quality is excellent. It's a great place to pick up a unique and meaningful souvenir to take home with you.

K
Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market (illustrative photo)

Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market

Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. Located near the cruise port, this market offers a wide variety of handmade items, from traditional Sabah handicrafts to modern souvenirs. You can find everything from traditional wood carvings to colorful textiles and jewelry. The prices are very reasonable and the quality is excellent. It's a great place to pick up a unique and meaningful souvenir to take home with you.

K
Kota Kinabalu Night Market (illustrative photo)

Kota Kinabalu Night Market

Kota Kinabalu Night Market is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts. Located near the cruise port, this market offers a wide variety of items, from traditional Sabah handicrafts to modern souvenirs. You can find everything from traditional wood carvings to colorful textiles and jewelry. The prices are very reasonable and the quality is excellent. It's a great place to pick up a unique and meaningful souvenir to take home with you.

// Kota Kinabalu Cruise Port Terminals

Which Kota Kinabalu cruise terminal will your ship use?

Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.

3 piers in Kota Kinabalu
Pier 1 of 3

Kota Kinabalu Cruise Terminal

Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Kota Kinabalu Cruise Terminal is the main cruise ship terminal in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. It is located on Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens and is the main port of call for cruise ships visiting the city. The terminal is equipped with modern facilities and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for passengers.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Kota Kinabalu Cruise Terminal)
Pier 2 of 3

Kota Kinabalu International Cruise Terminal

Jalan Tun Razak, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Kota Kinabalu International Cruise Terminal is a modern cruise ship terminal located in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. It is located on Jalan Tun Razak and is the main port of call for international cruise ships visiting the city. The terminal is equipped with modern facilities and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for passengers.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Kota Kinabalu International Cruise Terminal)
Pier 3 of 3

Kota Kinabalu Port

Jalan Tun Mustapha, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Kota Kinabalu Port is a major port located in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. It is located on Jalan Tun Mustapha and is the main port of call for cargo ships and cruise ships visiting the city. The port is equipped with modern facilities and amenities to ensure a safe and efficient experience for passengers and cargo.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Kota Kinabalu Port)
Wi-Fi

Most hotels and restaurants in the Kota Kinabalu cruise port area offer free wifi access. Additionally, there are several public wifi hotspots located throughout the port area, including at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, the Kota Kinabalu Ferry Terminal, and the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront.

Safety

Kota Kinabalu is generally considered to be a safe port for cruise ships. The city has a low crime rate and is generally considered to be a safe place to visit. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. It is also advisable to avoid walking alone at night and to keep your valuables secure.

Port address

Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Kota Kinabalu cruise port car rental
HertzAvisBudgetEuropcarSixt

Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.

// Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia cruise port excursions

Most Popular Kota Kinabalu Cruise Port Tours

36 excursions · book direct with the operator

Independent shore excursions in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, booked directly with the operator who runs them. We flag the ones that guarantee you're back on board before the gangway lifts.

Best Kota Kinabalu shore tours

Curated from 36 · not a search result
// Weather

Kota Kinabalu Cruise Port Weather

Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)·30-year historical averages
Oct averages · Kota Kinabalu
76°
Avg · °F
Warm, very wet
High
86°F
Low
70°F
Rain
14.0 in
Excursions that suit this weather
// Year-round in Kota Kinabalu

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

Avg temp °FRainfall in
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECMONTHLY NORMALS · °F AND IN
// Kota Kinabalu cruise ship schedule

Kota Kinabalu Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in Kota Kinabalu today, Saturday, October 31, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

Schedule updated

// Keep exploring

Also on your cruise

92% of Kota Kinabalu cruises also call at one of these.

// Questions

Kota Kinabalu cruise port, answered

The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Kota Kinabalu.

Where is Kota Kinabalu cruise port located?

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia cruise port is located in Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East). Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia is located on the northwest coast of the island of Borneo. It is the capital of the state of Sabah and is a popular tourist destination. The cruise port is located in the city center, near the waterfront and close to many of the city's attractions. It is easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi.

Is Kota Kinabalu a good cruise port to visit?

Yes, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia is a great cruise port. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, and vibrant culture. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, such as snorkeling, diving, and island hopping. There are also plenty of shopping and dining options available.

How safe is Kota Kinabalu cruise port for passengers?

Kota Kinabalu cruise port has a safety score of 6.8 out of 10, ranking #288 of 490 ports in Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East). Kota Kinabalu is generally considered to be a safe port for cruise ships. The city has a low crime rate and is generally considered to be a safe place to visit. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. It is also advisable to avoid walking alone at night and to keep your valuables secure.

What is the weather like at Kota Kinabalu cruise port in October?

In October, Kota Kinabalu cruise port has average high temperatures of 86°F (30°C) and average lows of 70°F (21°C).

How many excursions are available at Kota Kinabalu cruise port?

There are currently 36 excursions and tours available at Kota Kinabalu cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.

What are the top things to do at Kota Kinabalu cruise port?

Kota Kinabalu cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Hiking, Snorkeling, Island Hopping. Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. From the lush rainforests to the crystal clear waters of the South China Sea, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Visitors can take part in activities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. There are also plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as traditional markets, temples, and museums. Kota Kinabalu is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.

Can I rent a car at Kota Kinabalu cruise port?

1. Hertz: Hertz offers car rental services near the Kota Kinabalu cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars.2. Avis: Avis also offers car rental services near the Kota Kinabalu cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars.3. Budget: Budget offers car rental services near the Kota Kinabalu cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars.4. Europcar: Europcar offers car rental services near the Kota Kinabalu cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars.5. Sixt: Sixt offers car rental services near the Kota Kinabalu cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars.

What is the WiFi situation at Kota Kinabalu cruise port?

Most hotels and restaurants in the Kota Kinabalu cruise port area offer free wifi access. Additionally, there are several public wifi hotspots located throughout the port area, including at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, the Kota Kinabalu Ferry Terminal, and the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront.

Where is the cruise terminal at Kota Kinabalu cruise port?

The address of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia cruise port is Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.

What is the Kota Kinabalu Cruise Port cruise schedule?

There are no cruise ships scheduled at Kota Kinabalu today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Kota Kinabalu on any past or future date.

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