This cruise criss-crosses the mouth of the Santubong River in search of the rare Irrawaddy Dolphin.  The Irrawaddy, or snubfin dolphin, inhabits rivers, estuaries and shallow coastal areas.

The Santubong area is one of the best places in Sarawak to view this unusual looking marine mammal.  The dolphins are often seen swimming and diving around small fishing boats in the estuary. 

Occasionally they are seen playing in the open water.  Visitors will need a keen eye to spot the dolphins at first, but after a short wait they can often be seen surfacing all around the boat.

(Note: Dolphins wild creatures, and therefore sightings cannot be guaranteed, although we usually enjoy a high success rate.)

This cruise combines the Mangrove Cruise with a trip to crocodile nesting grounds.  Small and medium-sized estuarine crocodiles are often seen basking on mud flats at the edge of the mangroves.  This cruise is only offered when the tide is low and the mud banks are exposed.

High tide is the recommended time to take this tour. Pick up from the hotel then board a motorised launch from the Sarawak Boat Club. This trip of about 3 hours will take you on a cruise of the many branches of the Santubong and Salak River Delta systems they join the South China Sea. Enjoy a close view of the heavily silted mangrove Swamp which is a safe haven to the myriad creatures like the reptiles, mud skippers, crabs, shell fish , monkeys, etc.

The mangrove swamp sustains many different species of trees. The main species are of course the black and red mangrove, locally known as the 'Bako'. They are used in the construction industry for piling and also as charcoal for cooking and other usage.

Often mistaken as a wasteland, the tidal swamps in which mangrove thrive, enjoy a symbiotic relationship with prawns, fish and other coastal organisms. Stopover at a Malay fishing village for a short walk. Return to the Boat Club for transfer to your hotel.