Cruise Quest app screenshots
New
The Cruise Quest app is here.
Bar Bingo & Cruise Cameo · works offline!
// MENU
HomeCruise SearchShipsPortsBlog
Share
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)

Sandakan Cruise Port

Sandakan, Malaysia
Sandakan, Malaysia is a coastal city located in the east of Sabah, Malaysia.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#363
of 490 ports in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Today · high / low
88° / 77°
September normals
Sandakan, Malaysia cruise port
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Sandakan, Malaysia
// Sandakan cruise port overview

The cruise port in Sandakan,
explained

Lat: 5.8°NLong: 118.1°ETimezone: Europe/ParisINTN code: SDK

Sandakan, Malaysia is a coastal city located in the east of Sabah, Malaysia. It is the second largest city in the state and is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural beauty.

The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Sandakan Memorial Park, and the Sandakan Heritage Trail. The city is also known for its delicious seafood, with many restaurants serving up fresh catches from the nearby ocean.

Sandakan is also a great place to explore the local culture, with many traditional festivals and events taking place throughout the year. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, Sandakan is a great destination for those looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Ships visiting
1 line
1 ships call at Sandakan
Peak passenger day
302
cruise passengers ashore
Most ships dock at
7:00 AM
arrival for 100% of calls
// Departing soon

Upcoming cruises to Sandakan.

4 cruises stop here in Sandakan during the next 12 months. These are the next ones to leave, by sail date.

Prices refreshed daily
Silver Cloud
Jun 9, 2027Suite
Silversea Cruise Line

Silver Cloud

Jun 9, 2027 · 35 nights
from: Osaka, Japan
$1,040/ night
$36,400 total
Silver Cloud
Jun 23, 2027Suite
Silversea Cruise Line

Silver Cloud

Jun 23, 2027 · 21 nights
from: Manila, Philippines
$1,205/ night
$25,304 total
Crystal Symphony
Jan 11, 2028Oceanview
Crystal Cruises

Crystal Symphony

Jan 11, 2028 · 151 nights
from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida
$475/ night
$71,775 total
Crystal Symphony
Mar 23, 2028Oceanview
Crystal Cruises

Crystal Symphony

Mar 23, 2028 · 14 nights
from: Bali, Indonesia
$729/ night
$10,200 total
// Sandakan Cruise Port location

Where is Sandakan Cruise Port?

Sandakan, Malaysia is located on the east coast of Sabah, the second largest state in Malaysia. It is situated on the Sulu Sea, just south of the Philippines. The port is located in the city of Sandakan, which is the second largest city in Sabah. It is a popular cruise port for tourists visiting the region, as it is close to many of the area's attractions, including the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Gomantong Caves, and the Kinabatangan River.

General location
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Coordinates
5.84°N, 118.12°E
Time zone
Europe/Paris
Cruise port · 5.84°N, 118.12°E
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Sandakan cruise port guide

What to do in Sandakan

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

Island Hopping

Sandakan is a great destination for island hopping, with a variety of islands to explore. The nearby Turtle Islands Park is a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming, while the nearby Selingan Island is a great spot to observe sea turtles nesting and hatching. The nearby Lankayan Island is also a great spot for diving and snorkeling, with a variety of coral reefs and marine life to observe.

Theme 2

Wildlife Watching

Sandakan is a great destination for wildlife watching, with a variety of species to observe. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a popular spot to observe orangutans in their natural habitat, while the nearby Rainforest Discovery Centre offers a chance to spot a variety of birds, reptiles, and mammals. The nearby Turtle Islands Park is also a great spot to observe sea turtles nesting and hatching.

Theme 3

Cultural Experiences

Sandakan is a great destination for cultural experiences, with a variety of local cultures to explore. The nearby Agop Batu Tulug Cultural Village offers a chance to observe traditional Bajau and Murut lifestyles, while the nearby Sandakan Heritage Trail is a great spot to explore the city's history and architecture. The nearby Gomantong Caves are also a great spot to observe the local wildlife and learn about the local culture.

Sandakan cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
P

Pulau Berhala

Pulau Berhala is a beautiful beach located near Sandakan, Malaysia. It is a small island surrounded by crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, monitor lizards, and a variety of birds. Visitors can also explore the nearby mangrove forests and take part in turtle conservation activities.

S

Selingan Turtle Island

Selingan Turtle Island is a popular beach destination near Sandakan, Malaysia. It is a small island located about 40km from the mainland and is home to a large population of green and hawksbill turtles. Visitors can take part in turtle conservation activities, such as releasing baby turtles into the sea, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding ocean. The island also offers a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and bird watching.

P

Pulau Tiga

Pulau Tiga is a stunning beach located near Sandakan, Malaysia. It is a small island surrounded by crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, monitor lizards, and a variety of birds. Visitors can also explore the nearby mangrove forests and take part in turtle conservation activities. Pulau Tiga is also known for its mud volcanoes, which are a popular attraction for visitors.

// Sandakan fun facts

Gomantong Caves

The Gomantong Caves are located in Sandakan and are one of the largest limestone caves in Malaysia. The caves are home to a variety of wildlife including bats, swiftlets, and snakes. The caves are also a popular destination for bird's nest collectors who harvest the nests of the swiftlets for use in traditional Chinese medicine. Visitors can explore the caves and observe the wildlife in their natural habitat.

Kinabatangan River

The Kinabatangan River is the second longest river in Malaysia and is located in Sandakan. It is home to a variety of wildlife including proboscis monkeys, macaques, crocodiles, and a variety of birds. The river is a popular destination for eco-tourism and visitors can take boat tours to observe the wildlife in their natural habitat. The river is also home to a variety of plants and trees, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a protected area located in Sandakan, Malaysia. It was established in 1964 to rehabilitate orphaned or displaced orangutans and reintroduce them into the wild. The centre is home to over 60 orangutans and is open to visitors who can observe the primates in their natural habitat. The centre also offers educational programs and activities to help visitors learn more about orangutans and their conservation.

Sandakan cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
S

Sandakan Central Market

Sandakan Central Market is a great place to find souvenirs and other items to take home from your cruise. It is a bustling market with a variety of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. You can find a wide range of items such as traditional handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and more. The market is open daily from early morning until late evening, so you can easily find something to take home with you.

S

Sandakan Harbour Mall

Sandakan Harbour Mall is a great place to find souvenirs and other items to take home from your cruise. It is a modern shopping mall with a variety of stores selling everything from clothing to souvenirs. You can find a wide range of items such as traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and more. The mall is open daily from early morning until late evening, so you can easily find something to take home with you.

S

Sandakan Town Centre

Sandakan Town Centre is a great place to find souvenirs and other items to take home from your cruise. It is a vibrant shopping area with a variety of stores selling everything from clothing to souvenirs. You can find a wide range of items such as traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and more. The centre is open daily from early morning until late evening, so you can easily find something to take home with you.

// Sandakan Cruise Port Terminals

Which Sandakan 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 Sandakan
Pier 1 of 3

Sandakan Cruise Terminal

Jalan Buli Sim Sim, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia

Sandakan Cruise Terminal is the main cruise port in Sandakan, Malaysia. It is located on the east coast of Sabah, and is the gateway to the nearby islands of Selingan, Gaya and Lankayan. The terminal is equipped with modern facilities and services, including a passenger lounge, immigration and customs services, and a duty-free shop.

Pier 2 of 3

Sandakan Port

Jalan Buli Sim Sim, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia

Sandakan Port is the main port in Sandakan, Malaysia. It is located on the east coast of Sabah, and is the gateway to the nearby islands of Selingan, Gaya and Lankayan. The port is equipped with modern facilities and services, including a passenger lounge, immigration and customs services, and a duty-free shop.

Pier 3 of 3

Sandakan Yacht Club

Jalan Buli Sim Sim, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia

Sandakan Yacht Club is a popular destination for cruise ships visiting Sandakan. It is located on the east coast of Sabah, and offers a range of services and facilities for visitors, including a marina, a restaurant, and a bar. The club also provides a range of activities, such as sailing, fishing, and kayaking.

Wi-Fi

The Sandakan Cruise Terminal offers free wifi access to passengers. Additionally, many of the nearby restaurants and cafes offer free wifi access.

Safety

Sandakan, Malaysia 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 be aware of your surroundings and take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

Port address

Jalan Buli Sim Sim, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia

Sandakan cruise port car rental
Sandakan Airport Car RentalSandakan Car RentalSandakan Car HireSandakan Car Rental & Tours

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

// Weather

Sandakan Cruise Port Weather

Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Sandakan
81°
Avg · °F
Hot, very wet
High
88°F
Low
77°F
Rain
9.1 in
Excursions that suit this weather
// Year-round in Sandakan

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

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

Sandakan Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in Sandakan today, Thursday, September 10, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

// Keep exploring

Popular ports in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)

Other ports cruisers visit most in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East).

// Questions

Sandakan cruise port, answered

The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Sandakan.

Where is Sandakan cruise port located?

Sandakan, Malaysia cruise port is located in Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East). Sandakan, Malaysia is located on the east coast of Sabah, the second largest state in Malaysia. It is situated on the Sulu Sea, just south of the Philippines. The port is located in the city of Sandakan, which is the second largest city in Sabah. It is a popular cruise port for tourists visiting the region, as it is close to many of the area's attractions, including the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Gomantong Caves, and the Kinabatangan River.

Is Sandakan a good cruise port to visit?

Yes, Sandakan, Malaysia is a great cruise port. It is located on the east coast of Sabah, and offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. The city is known for its wildlife, including the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Gomantong Caves, and the Turtle Islands Park. There are also plenty of cultural attractions, such as the Sandakan Heritage Trail and the Sandakan Memorial Park.

How safe is Sandakan cruise port for passengers?

Sandakan cruise port has a safety score of 6.1 out of 10, ranking #363 of 490 ports in Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East). Sandakan, Malaysia 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 be aware of your surroundings and take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

What is the weather like at Sandakan cruise port in September?

In September, Sandakan cruise port has average high temperatures of 88°F (31°C) and average lows of 77°F (25°C).

How many excursions are available at Sandakan cruise port?

There are currently 93 excursions and tours available at Sandakan 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 Sandakan cruise port?

Sandakan cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Island Hopping, Wildlife Watching, Cultural Experiences. Sandakan, Malaysia is known for its abundance of natural attractions. It is a great destination for those looking to explore the outdoors, as it is home to lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can take part in activities such as jungle trekking, bird watching, and river cruises. There are also plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as traditional villages, temples, and markets. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of opportunities for relaxation, such as spa treatments, beachside dining, and sunset cruises. No matter what type of experience you are looking for, Sandakan, Malaysia has something to offer.

Can I rent a car at Sandakan cruise port?

1. Sandakan Airport Car Rental: Located just a few minutes away from the cruise port, Sandakan Airport Car Rental offers a wide selection of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, vans, and luxury cars. They also offer a free shuttle service to and from the cruise port.2. Sandakan Car Rental: This car rental company is located in the city center and offers a variety of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars. They also offer a free shuttle service to and from the cruise port.3. Sandakan Car Hire: This car rental company is located near the cruise port and offers a variety of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars. They also offer a free shuttle service to and from the cruise port.4. Sandakan Car Rental & Tours: This car rental company is located near the cruise port and offers a variety of vehicles, including economy, compact, and luxury cars. They also offer a variety of tour packages and a free shuttle service to and from the cruise port.

What is the WiFi situation at Sandakan cruise port?

The Sandakan Cruise Terminal offers free wifi access to passengers. Additionally, many of the nearby restaurants and cafes offer free wifi access.

Where is the cruise terminal at Sandakan cruise port?

The address of Sandakan, Malaysia cruise port is Jalan Buli Sim Sim, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia.

What is the Sandakan Cruise Port cruise schedule?

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

Sign up or
Sign in

Save your cruise, track reviews for your cabin, set cruise price drop alerts, & more with an account.

No password needed · Sign-in code sent