Tucked into the northeastern corner of Borneo, Sandakan is one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated wildlife destinations — a port town where rainforest meets coastline and orangutans outnumber tourists. Once the capital of British North Borneo and a city that rose from wartime ruins, it carries a compelling history alongside some of the most extraordinary biodiversity on earth. If your cruise itinerary includes a stop here, consider yourself lucky — and plan carefully, because Sandakan rewards those who hit the ground running.
Arriving by Ship
Cruise ships dock at Sandakan Port, which sits conveniently close to the town centre — usually within a 10–15 minute drive. The port itself is functional rather than scenic, but the surrounding views of the bay and the lush hills beyond give you an immediate sense of where you are. Immigration and customs formalities are generally straightforward for cruise passengers, and taxis, private transfers, and tour operators are readily available just outside the terminal. Given that Sandakan’s star attractions — Sepilok, the Kinabatangan River, and the city’s historic quarter — are spread across a fairly wide area, arranging transport in advance or booking a guided excursion before you arrive is highly recommended. If you’re heading straight to your accommodation or a wildlife reserve, a private transfer takes the stress out of navigation. 🎟 Book: Private 1Way Transfer to/from Sandakan Airport, City or Sepilok
Things to Do
Sandakan is essentially Borneo in miniature, offering wildlife encounters that rival anything you’ll find on the planet. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is the headline act — a globally respected sanctuary where semi-wild orangutans swing in for their twice-daily feeding sessions, often with curious infants in tow. Equally unmissable is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre next door, the world’s only such facility dedicated to these small, endearing bears. Booking a full-day tour combining both is an efficient and deeply rewarding way to spend your time ashore. 🎟 Book: Private Full Day Sepilok Orang Utan, Bornean Sun Bear and Rainforest Discovery Center Tour
For something even more extraordinary, the Kinabatangan River is one of the best places in the world to spot pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. An eight-hour river cruise from Sandakan delivers an experience that many travellers describe as life-changing. 🎟 Book: Kinabatangan River Cruise from Sandakan If you’d prefer a more relaxed evening outing, the mangrove firefly cruise is a magical alternative — gliding through darkening waterways as thousands of fireflies illuminate the trees like living fairy lights. 🎟 Book: Mangrove Cruise with Fireflies Tour Including Dinner from Sandakan
Don’t overlook Sandakan’s human history either. The Australian War Memorial at Bukit Buli commemorates the tragic Sandakan Death Marches of World War II, a sobering and important site. The Agnes Keith House, restored colonial home of the famous American author, offers a window into Borneo’s pre-war colonial life.
Local Food
Sandakan has a thriving food scene that punches well above its size. As a historically significant port, the city absorbed Chinese, Malay, Filipino, and indigenous influences — and you taste all of them. The seafood here is exceptional; look out for steamed mantis prawns, chilli crab, and fresh barramundi at the numerous waterfront restaurants. The morning market near the town centre is a wonderful place to graze on local breakfasts: nasi lemak, coconut-steamed rice with sambal and fried anchovies, is a staple worth trying. Sandakan is also famous among Malaysians for its bak kut teh (pork rib herb soup) and its distinctive version of dim sum, which reflects the town’s strong Cantonese heritage. A half-day city tour that includes a local lunch is a great way to navigate the food scene without guesswork. 🎟 Book: Private Tour: Half Day Sandakan City Tour Including Local Lunch
Shopping
Sandakan isn’t a major shopping destination, but there are some worthwhile finds. The Central Market is the best spot for local produce, handicrafts, and woven goods from Borneo’s indigenous communities — rattan baskets, beaded jewellery, and hand-dyed fabrics make meaningful souvenirs. Around the town centre you’ll find small shops selling local snacks perfect for gifting: dried seafood, prawn crackers, and packaged kuih (traditional cakes). For wildlife-themed keepsakes and books, the gift shops at Sepilok’s conservation centres stock ethically produced merchandise that directly supports the organisations.
Practical Tips
- Sandakan operates in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). ATMs are available in town, and most hotels and larger restaurants accept cards, but carry cash for markets and smaller eateries.
- The climate is hot and humid year-round, with temperatures hovering around 30–33°C. Dress in light, breathable clothing and bring insect repellent — especially for jungle and river excursions.
- Modest dress is appreciated when visiting religious sites or local markets.
- Tipping isn’t obligatory in Malaysia but is warmly welcomed for good service.
- Start your day early: orangutan feeding times at Sepilok are at 10am and 3pm, and the Kinabatangan wildlife is most active in the early morning.
Cruises That Visit Sandakan, Malaysia
Sandakan is a relatively specialist port of call, featured most prominently on expedition-style and Asia-focused itineraries rather than mainstream mega-ship routes. Silversea Cruises regularly includes Sandakan on its Silver Muse and Silver Moon Southeast Asian voyages, typically sailing from Singapore or Hong Kong on itineraries of 10 to 14 nights that wind through Borneo, the Philippines, and the Indonesian archipelago. Regent Seven Seas similarly incorporates Sandakan into its longer Asia Pacific sailings, departing from hubs like Tokyo, Singapore, or Sydney on voyages ranging from 14 to 20 nights.
Azamara Club Cruises has featured Sandakan on its immersive Borneo-focused itineraries, with overnight or extended port stays that give passengers the rare opportunity to take a full Kinabatangan River overnight trip. These sailings typically depart from Singapore and run for 12 to 16 nights. Crystal Cruises has also visited Sandakan on its world voyage segments and dedicated Asia seasons, often as part of longer explorations of Malaysian Borneo that include Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.
The best time to visit Sandakan by sea is between March and October, when rainfall is lower and river and wildlife excursions are most reliable. The northeast monsoon brings heavier rains from November through February, which can disrupt river cruise operations and jungle trails. April through July is particularly popular, offering the best chance of clear skies and excellent wildlife sightings.
🎟️ Things to Book in Advance
These highly-rated experiences fill up fast — book before you arrive to avoid missing out.
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📍 Getting to Sandakan Malaysia
Use the interactive map below to explore the port area and plan your route from the terminal.
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