The gentle hum of a boat engine marks the beginning of a scenic cruise on Sungai Johor that also journeys into the history of an ancient sultanate.
Departing from Pangkalan Kota Jetty in Kota Tinggi, Johor, the service is operated by Kota Tinggi River Cruise (KTRC).
KTRC operations manager Aiman Haikal Mohd Azmi said Sungai Johor witnessed the rise of the Johor-Riau Sultanate following the fall of Melaka in the 16th century.
He explained that the river once served as the lifeline of early settlements, such as Johor Lama and Kampung Makam, where several former Johor sultans were laid to rest.
The cruise service has come just in time for Visit Johor 2026.
“In the first seven months of operations, we recorded more than 10,000 visitors.
“Besides domestic tourists, we have also received visitors from Singapore, Indonesia and Brunei,” he told Bernama.
The daytime cruise takes passengers past several iconic landmarks, including Titian Laksamana (a pedestrian suspension bridge) and the Johor River Barrage, both popular spots for photographs.
During the hour-long, 6.7km journey, passengers are introduced to stories of local legends such as Sultan Mahmud Mangkat Dijulang and Laksamana Bentan through onboard audio commentary or live narration by tour guides.
“Visitors can also see remnants of historical riverside structures while enjoying views of Kota Tinggi,” Aiman Haikal said.
As dusk settles, Sungai Johor transforms into a different landscape when cruising under KTRC’s signature “Mesmerising Fireflies” package.
On a good day, thousands of Pteroptyx tener fireflies can be seen flashing in the darkness among the berembang trees and mangrove forests lining the riverbanks.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, KTRC also offers a dining cruise package.
KTRC operates daily from 9am to 7pm on weekdays, while operating hours are extended until 10pm from Friday to Sunday, with cruises departing every hour.
Day cruise tickets are priced at RM20 for adults, RM15 for children and RM10 for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Sunset and firefly cruises are priced at RM23, RM17 and RM13 respectively.
