The Shivau Cruise gliding along the calm turquoise waters of Sungai Balui, Belaga.
THOSE looking to go on a voyage into a remote part of the world, surrounded by pristine turquoise waters and the opportunity to soak in nature’s beauty, might find the answer in a river cruise.
The Shivau Cruise takes you along the scenic Sungai Balui in Belaga for a boat ride in remote Sarawak Borneo.
A wonderful way to unwind and slow down, this river tour offers visitors the opportunity to travel along pristine waterways, take a cold dip at the magnificent cascades of Belanum Waterfalls, meet local indigenous communities along the river, taste exotic delicacies and even indulge in a spot of fishing.
The cruise along the majestic Sungai Balui has become quite the novelty these days, attracting much attention from adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.
“We have so far conducted six trips since our soft launch in February and many more enthusiasts have contacted us. We even had inquiries from a group of dignitaries,” said cruise operator Graham Abo.
“Many who joined us previously have voiced their keen interest for another trip to bring along friends and family,” he said.
Abo, a Kenyah native of Uma Juman Asap, Belaga, is assisted by his three partners, Mathew Ngo from Uma Belor, Sungai Asap, Johnny Jamu from Uma Lahanan Asap and Susiana Lawing from Uma Baha.
Abo says the river cruise is great for nature lovers as well as anglers, with the abundance of freshwater fishes.
Abo said encouraging feedback gave them the boost they needed to improve operations.
“Everyone who joined the cruise was enthralled by the spectacular Belanum Waterfall located on the Bakun Dam in the upper river.
“With its crisp mountain air, it is the perfect spot for a barbecue and karaoke session,” he said.
His trips have so far been with customers from Sibu and Bintulu, but Abo is gearing up to welcome clients from other parts of the country since direct flights to Kuching, Sibu and Miri are now available.
A promotion campaign targeting Singaporeans is on the cards, while a second vessel is being readied.
Work is also in progress on a pontoon with restrooms, to be placed near Belanum Waterfall.
The double-decker boat which travels at a speed of six to seven knots takes visitors on a serene and relaxing 90-minute journey before reaching the breathtaking waterfall.
“The pace is a perfect blend for those seeking new adventures without it becoming too overwhelming,” said Abo.
Apart from the waterfalls, several small islands along the journey are a sight to behold.
An angler with his catch of freshwater fishes.
Abo said avid anglers would find the rivermouth a perfect spot for a great catch as the waters were abundant with freshwater fishes.
Some of the species here include semah, labang, tengadak, benggalan, baung, sakam, sebarau, haruan and kalui.
There is also an option of going to Long Bulan, location of the three-level Kelikai Waterfall, in a larger boat.
“This will be a cruise filled with unexpected surprises as one can see semah fish swimming in the crystal-clear Paran River located next to the waterfall.
“Swimming is a must if one knows how to swim,” he continued.
The air is refreshingly cool with temperatures dipping to 21°C at night.
The only setback during the dry season is the low tide which makes the journey difficult and freshwater fishes quite rare.
Sarawak Central Region Hotel Association’s former chairman Johnny Wong correctly predicted that a river cruise on Sungai Balui would happen one day.
“Many years ago when I was active in politics, I used to be in Belaga.
“Even back then, I could foresee that a river cruise along Sungai Balui would one day become a reality,” he recalled.
Wong, who has retired from the hotel industry, has never doubted that this hidden gem would attract people from near and far.
“Sungai Balui and its surrounding areas including the waterfalls, is a must-visit place for nature seekers. It is worth every sen,” he said.
Sungai Asap resident Umi Liau has high hopes for the cruise, which will unlock huge potential for river tourism.
One of the pit stops at the magnificent Belanum Waterfall.
However, she felt that more promotional efforts were needed to publicise the cruise.
“I hope the operators will come up with more activities or programmes that are tied with the local community’s culture and arts so that more people will be attracted to visit Belaga,” said Umi who is chairman of the Kenyah Uma Baha Women’s Association Sibu.
Businessman William Ting was among the first batch of pioneers who went on the cruise in mid-March.
Ting along with 13 family members and friends jumped at the chance when he heard of the cruise, and enjoyed a rare and beautiful experience.
The three-day-two-night package allowed them to immerse themselves in this untouched part of the world, and Ting said he was mesmerised by the lush scenery and Sungai Balui’s crystal-clear waters.
Their itinerary included visiting Uma Beor Leo Dian, the longest uninterrupted longhouse in Sarawak.
This Kayan tribe seven-block longhouse in Sungai Asap boasts 101 doors with 1,300 residents.
“We enjoyed swimming and catching fish at Belanum waterfalls. At night we entertained ourselves with karaoke,” said Ting.
They were also taken to the tallest belawing (tribal tower) in Malaysia at Uma Bakah that measures 24m tall and is an entry in the Malaysia Book of Records.
As someone who deeply appreciates nature’s wonders, Ting recommended adventurous souls to go on the cruise and experience all that Sungai Balui and its surroundings have to offer.
“This trip is not to be missed,” he added.
