Uncovering Kota Tinggi's History, Scenic Beauty Via River Cruise

By Marfika Adnan Haris Fadzilah

KOTA TINGGI, June 30 (Bernama) -- The gentle hum of a boat engine breaking the calm waters of Sungai Johor marks the beginning of a scenic cruise that also delves into the history of an ancient sultanate.

As the boat departs from Pangkalan Kota Jetty here, the bustling town quickly fades into the background. In its place, dense greenery lines both banks of the river, offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the pace of modern life.

The 6.7-kilometre river cruise, operated by Kota Tinggi River Cruise (KTRC), has emerged as one of Johor's growing ecotourism attractions in conjunction with Visit Johor 2026.

KTRC operations manager Aiman Haikal Mohd Azmi said Sungai Johor is far more than a waterway –  it witnessed the rise of the Johor-Riau Sultanate following the fall of Malacca 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.

"Our royal history is one of the cruise's biggest attractions. In just the first seven months of operations, we recorded more than 10,000 visitors.

"Besides domestic tourists, we've also received visitors from Singapore, Indonesia and Brunei who are eager to experience the cruise themselves," he told Bernama.

The daytime cruise takes visitors past several iconic landmarks, including Titian Laksamana (a pedestrian suspension bridge) and the Johor River Barrage, both popular spots for photography enthusiasts.

During the approximately one-hour 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 the tour guide.

"Visitors can also see remnants of historic riverside structures while enjoying views of Kota Tinggi from the river," Aiman Haikal said.

As dusk settles, the Johor River transforms into an altogether different spectacle with KTRC's signature Mesmerising Fireflies package.

In the darkness, illuminated only by nature, thousands of Pteroptyx tener fireflies begin flashing in synchrony among the berembang trees and mangrove forests lining the riverbanks.

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, KTRC also offers a Dining Cruise package, allowing guests to enjoy a meal on board while taking in panoramic views of Kota Tinggi.

Aiman Haikal hopes nature- and heritage-based tourism products like the Johor River Cruise will continue to receive strong support from the state government, noting that such initiatives not only protect the river's ecosystem but also generate economic opportunities for local communities.

KTRC operates daily from 9 am to 7 pm on weekdays, while operating hours are extended until 10 pm 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 for adults, RM17 for children and RM13 for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. 

-- BERNAMA