Singapore River Cruise

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Best Night Scenery of Singapore from a Bumboat

The Singapore River Cruise is one of the things most tourists enjoy doing that is truly unforgettable, apart from the Top 10 Singapore Attractions. The cruise however, is nothing without the bumboats, which are used for carrying passengers on their tour along the riverbanks.

New Role of the Bumboats

The bumboats were once used as a means of transporting goods and cargo back in the early days of Singapore history. Originating from the 1600s in Europe, these boats are very different from the earlier versions which had sails, were powered by oars or guided by long poles to move them up and down the rivers.

Singapore River Day Cruise Part 1 (01:53)

As run-down as they may sound, don't look down on these bumboats. They were vital in driving trade activities on the Singapore River for over a hundred and fifty years as they carried cargo from one destination to the next.

Years have passed and Singapore is preserving the good old days. Now, the bumboats are used for bringing passengers on the Singapore River Cruise to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the waterfront. Passengers have a choice of either the route of the Singapore River Experience or New River Experience.

Route 1 - Singapore River Experience

The Singapore River Experience is 'the tale of 2 quays', covering Boat Quay, Clarke Quay and Marina Bay - known for the view of the bay, and within distance of Singapore's central shopping district.

Route 2 - New River Experience

The New River Experience on the other hand, is 'the tale of 3 Quays', which unlike the Singapore River route covers an additional Robertson Quay - a place though more laid back, is still filled with evening entertainment, indoor and even alfresco wining and dining.

Landmarks along Singapore River

Taking a leisurely ride on the Singapore River Cruise will take you past the landmarks of the Rafffles' Landing Site, Asian Civilisations Museum, row of old shophouses along Boat Quay, Fullerton Hotel, Esplanade Singapore, The Merlion Park, Singapore Flyer and the latest attraction Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort.

Singapore River Day Cruise Part 2 (02:34)

A Day or Night River Cruise?

Be part of this journey on the Singapore River Cruise, where you are given the option of either a day or night round the waters of the Singapore River. A day ride lets you soak up the sun and feel the breeze blowing through your hair as you sit on board the bumboat with ongoing live commentaries for an even more enhancing experience!

A night ride on the Singapore River Cruise is similar to that of the day ride, minus the discomfort of the sunny heat. In place of the bright sunlight, a dark blue sky shadows your journey down the riverbanks, giving you opportunities for some stargazing at the same time. Whether you decide on taking a day or night ride on the Singapore River Cruise, one thing's for sure - you'll be embarking on an experience like never before.

But for those of you are still contemplating on which one you should take, I'd strongly suggest for a night cruise. Without the worries of the scorching hot weather or the glaring sun, a night ride along the Singapore River is actually relaxing, romantic, and mesmerizing - taking you away from the hustle and bustle of city life, while you're still in the city! How awesome is that?

Singapore River Night Cruise (03:37)