Bucket list item: embarking on a cruise officially crossed off.
I’ve always wanted to go on a cruise, and this time I finally did it. We boarded the Dream Cruise by Genting, and one of the highlights was a half day layover at Redang Island. (I’ll be sharing my cruise experience in the next post, so stay tuned for that!) But now, let’s talk about the most interesting part: snorkelling with sea turtles.
This cruise itinerary introduced me to somewhere new: Redang Island, a stunning tropical island off the east coast of Malaysia, famous for snorkelling and scuba diving. Crystal clear waters, lush greenery, the idyllic paradisical life.
Unfortunately, with time strapped to our schedule, we had to head straight back to the cruise ship after our snorkelling trip and we didn’t get to explore the coastal town at all (some regrets for the next trip, perhaps?).
We booked the Swim with Turtle Package, which included two snorkelling stops around Pulau Redang.
Stop 1: Turtle Bay
The waters were a little murky when we visited, which could be seasonal, but it didn’t take much away from the experience. Because within minutes of getting into the water, a sea turtle glided right beneath us. The turtles were close enough to reach out and touch, though we did not and should not.
Our guide also gave us one very specific instruction before we jumped in: clench your fists if a turtle swims near you. Apparently, they can mistake open fingers for squid. Quirky advice, but sound and duly noted.
Watching the turtle move through the water so up close and personal was one of those moments that took my breath away. There’s something so calming and adorable about them, especially with their curious little beady eyes watching us.
Stop 2: Pulau Redang Snorkelling Area
The second snorkelling point was nearby, and the contrast was striking. The water here was noticeably clearer, which meant we could fully appreciate the reef below. The coral formations were beautiful, and there was plenty of marine life darting around.
If Turtle Bay is the emotional highlight, this second stop is where you get to slow down and take it all in visually. A nice balance between the two.
Video credits to Joslyn.
Overall Thoughts
My love for snorkelling goes way back. I had a wonderful first experience in Bali, and swimming in the open ocean when I was only a child left a lasting impression on me. But returning to the sea as an adult means seeing things with slightly different eyes.
The reality is that snorkelling hotspots are busier and more impacted than they used to be. The waters in many popular destinations are more polluted, and tourism, including the very boats that bring us to the snorkelling points, contributes to that. It’s something I’m aware of and sitting with.
That said, swimming alongside a sea turtle for the first time is an extraordinary experience. It’s one of those rare moments where you feel fully present, humbled, and grateful all at once. For a first timer, Redang Island delivers. And now, let’s continue to protect our precious ocean and marine life.
Have you been to Pulau Redang before? I’d love to know your experience in the comments below.
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