Piano Land Cruise Redefines Luxury Holidays

By Marfika Adnan Haris Fadzilah

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 18 (Bernama) -- Everyone has a different vision of the ideal getaway, yet cruising has yet to gain widespread appeal among local travellers.

Often associated with luxury, exclusivity and rigid itineraries, cruise holidays are commonly perceived as lacking flexibility — especially for families or groups of friends planning a getaway. This perception has long shaped the idea that cruising is reserved for a niche segment of travellers.

In reality, holiday preferences vary widely. Some seek peace and tranquillity, yearning for moments of calm while gazing out at endless stretches of open sea, far removed from the noise and demands of daily life.

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As someone who enjoys travelling from one destination to another, the writer once shared the assumption that a cruise holiday might be restrictive, offering limited activities and requiring guests to remain at sea throughout the journey.

That perception, however, changed after joining a three-day, two-night media cruise aboard the luxurious MV Piano Land, sailing from Port Klang Cruise Terminal (PKCT) to Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal in Penang, organised recently by Tourism Malaysia.

Sailing across the Straits of Melaka offered a fresh perspective on cruise holidays, revealing an experience that is increasingly family-friendly.

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Weighing 70,000 tonnes, the 13-deck Piano Land houses more than 850 cabins and accommodates up to 1,700 passengers. The ship is equipped with an extensive range of facilities, including restaurants, swimming pools, jacuzzis, a cinema, theatre stage, gymnasium, library and spa.

With its wide array of amenities, the experience felt much like staying at a luxury resort — made distinctive by the fact that it floats gracefully at sea.

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Onboard activities are equally engaging. Children’s play areas, a cruise photography centre and Mini Telematch add to the attractions, while daily programmes such as zumba, aerobics, quizzes and interactive games ensure the journey is not merely about rest, but filled with variety and enjoyment.

Dining aboard the ship also delivers a unique gastronomic experience, offering a blend of local and international cuisines that turns every mealtime into a journey of flavours.

For those seeking serenity, observation decks and lounge areas provide the perfect setting to unwind while taking in breathtaking sunsets — an experience rarely matched elsewhere. The writer, too, seized the opportunity to capture photos against the stunning sunset backdrop.

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One of the most memorable highlights was a visit to the captain’s bridge, where guests were given a rare glimpse of the ship’s complex instrument panels, radar screens and advanced navigation systems that ensure a safe voyage. The captain also shared insights into daily routines and the challenges of steering a massive vessel through the busy waters of the Straits of Melaka.

Previously, Bernama reported that Selangor’s tourism sector is set to receive a fresh boost as Piano Land, a luxury cruise ship from China, is expected to make PKCT its permanent home port starting in the fourth quarter of this year.

The initiative, the result of a strategic collaboration between Astro Ocean Cruise and Hwajing Travel & Tours, also introduces Muslim-friendly and family-oriented cruise offerings for the regional market.

-- BERNAMA