The Star Cruises jetty, where many big cruise lines dock , is about eight miles west of Kuah. There is effectively no public transport on the island, so your choices are to use taxis or to rent a car, motorbike/scooter, or bicycle. If you've booked a tour, the buses meet you right at the dock to start the excursion. There are no facilities at the jetty.

If your ship will use tenders you will be dropped off in the center of town. Star Cruises has priority using the dock.

Tip: don't hire a taxi near the ship. Walk to the far end of the pier and negotiate there. Many taxis and much cheaper.

There will be a shuttle bus from the wharf to the Duty Free shops at the Underwater aquarium.

Printable map to take along.

Cruise calendar for this port.

Watch a destination video.

Off the coast of the state of Kedah is a cluster of 99 islands with the best of many worlds - beautiful beaches, world-class infrastructure, mangroves rich in flora and fauna, ultra-cheap duty-free shopping and fascinating legends.

Langkawi has a lingering legend woven into its history. Ask anyone in Langkawi about the tragic legend of a beautiful young lady named Mahsuri, and you will hear a tale of love, jealousy and a curse she placed upon the island for seven generations. Today, the seventh generation of Langkawi's inhabitants has long come and gone, but the locals still believe that the prosperity and blessings the islands enjoy today and the passing of the curse is not mere coincidence. The mysticism of this legend can be felt in many parts of this island, especially at Makam Mahsuri (Mahsuri's Mausoleum) where the famous legendary figure is said to be buried.

Langkawi is not only geared towards tourism. Many of the islands are populated by farmers, fishermen and entrepreneurs. Experience the beautiful countryside and the peaceful landscape of paddy fields by renting a car and taking a leisurely drive around the island. Some of Langkawi's most rustic and memorable views are along the road that circles the island. You will pass small villages with wooden houses framed by palm trees, and children riding their old bicycles on an errandAside from experiencing the local lifestyle, there is no shortage of activities in Langkawi.

Head up the thrilling new cable car to the summit of Mount Mat Cincang - Langkawi's second highest mountain - for an unrivalled view of the entire main island and beyond.

You can also visit the Field of Burnt Rice, the Hot Springs, Telaga Tujuh (The Seven Wells) and the Beach of Black Sand. Boat tours are organised to Tasik Dayang Bunting, (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden), Gua Cerita (Cave of Stories) and the Gua Langsir (Curtain Cave). And if you are more outdoorsy, why not trek through the pristine rain forest that blankets most of Langkawi, go on a boat tour of the mangroves, go diving, or play a round of golf at some of the 5-star resorts. Langkawi also has an underwater world which has garnered rave reviews, complete with an underground tunnel that runs though a giant aquarium.

Sharing a taxi is a good option here, especially if you want to go on the cable car.

It pays to compare your cruise line shore excursions here.

Best Shopping Area

• Kuah Town center
• Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall
• Langkawi Parade Shopping center
• Jetty Point Complex at Kuah Jetty
• Skymall at Langkawi Airport
• Zon duty-free Shopping at Cenang Beach
• Zon duty-free Shopping at Wildlife Park
  

The Malaysian currency is the ringgit. Ringgits are freely convertible and the exchange rate is US$1 = approx. RM3.

ATMs are widely available in cities, but do stock up on cash if heading out into the smaller islands or the jungle. Credit cards can be used in most shops, restaurants and hotels, although skimming can be a problem in dodgier outlets.

Tipping is not customary in Malaysia. However, hotel porters and taxi drivers will appreciate a small tip if you have been provided with exemplary service. Most expensive restaurants, bars and hotels may indicate prices in the form of RM19++, meaning that sales tax (5%) and service charge (10%) will be added to the bill.

Currency Converter

The sole official language of Malaysia is Malay (Bahasa Malaysia). English is also taught in schools and widely spoken in the cities although in rural areas a little Malay will come in handy.

Broadband Internet is available in most hotels, internet cafes, and some restaurants and cafes. Both cable broadband and wireless broadband (available in hot spots areas such as Starbucks and McDonald's) are available.

Emergency numbers All type of emergency 999; From mobile phone - 999 or 112

In general shops open from 10.30am till 9.30pm in the large cities. They open and close for business earlier in the smaller towns and rural areas.

For a list of public holidays click here.

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