Surabaya’s sleek Gapura Surya Nusantara Terminal rolls out the red carpet for cruise travelers with killer facilities that can handle 4,000 visitors a day.
For other Indonesia Cruise destinations check out our Indonesia Cruise Ship Port Guide page.
While you’re there, dive into local culture with gamelan tunes and try your hand at batik painting.
Need a caffeine fix? The Java coffee is a must, and don’t skip the nasi goreng – it’s delicious!
Getting around is a breeze – hop on a Damri bus for just a buck or two, grab a Blue Bird Taxi for about $10 an hour, or just use your favorite ride app.
Make sure to check out the House of Sampoerna, snap a pic at the Heroes Monument, and yes, there’s actually a Submarine Monument that’s pretty cool.
The full 2025 cruise schedule shows tons of chances to explore Indonesia’s second-biggest port city.
Map of Surabaya Cruise Ship Port
Port Infrastructure and Facilities
Surabaya has long been Indonesia’s second-biggest commercial port, but these days it’s also become a fantastic cruise stop. When you dock, you’ll step into the Gapura Surya Nusantara Terminal – a sleek, modern three-floor building covering over 16,000 square meters that can handle up to 4,000 travelers a day.
The port has seriously upped its game with major tech upgrades, better automation, and improved shipping connections. It’s now a key spot on the Belt and Road network, with expanded facilities including a massive 26-hectare dry bulk terminal. The whole place was designed with the environment in mind, so your arrival won’t just be smooth – it’ll be green too.
Cruise Terminal Amenities
Cruise Terminal Amenities
Most cruise ports just want to get you on and off ships quickly, but Surabaya’s terminal actually makes your visit enjoyable with some cool perks.
You’ll get a taste of real Indonesian culture right away – there’s gamelan music playing, stations where you can try batik painting, and traditional wayang puppet shows. Feeling peckish? Grab a cup of local Java coffee, sip on fresh coconut water, or dig into some nasi goreng at the food court.
Need to chill for a bit? Head up to the rooftop garden with sweet views of the harbor or treat your tired feet to a 30-minute reflexology session. The staff speaks several languages and can point you toward tourist info, places to exchange money, and spots to catch some Wi-Fi. Before you leave, check out the vendors selling handmade woodcarvings and beautiful batik fabrics.
Getting Around Surabaya From the Port
Getting Around Surabaya From the Port
Just arrived in Indonesia’s second-largest city? Here’s how to get moving once your ship docks in Surabaya:
- Grab a Damri bus right outside the terminal – they’re super cheap (only $1-2) and hit all the major spots around town until 9:00 PM
- Blue Bird Taxis are the reliable ones – look for the blue cars in terminal parking and expect to pay about $10/hour on the meter
- Got a smartphone? Snag a local SIM and use Grab or Gojek apps – the locals’ preferred way to get around
- Playing it safe? Shore excursions cost $45-65 per person but guarantee you won’t miss your ship
- Want your own wheels without the hassle? Book a private transfer through Jayride starting at $35
Pro tip: Traffic gets crazy during rush hours (7:30-9:30AM and 4:30-6:30PM), so plan your adventures around these times!
Must-See Attractions for Cruise Passengers
Step off your cruise ship and dive into Surabaya’s colorful past! Just beyond the port, you’ll find the House of Sampoerna – an old tobacco museum housed in a gorgeous Dutch colonial building. Their heritage tours are pretty fascinating.
Got a thing for history? Check out the Heroes Monument with its towering 41-meter obelisk and museum that tells the story of Indonesia’s fight for independence. For a cool photo op, head to the Submarine Monument where you can actually climb around inside the old Russian KRI Pasopati sub.
Don’t skip the Arab Quarter – it’s the real deal with a mosque from the 1400s and spice markets that’ll wake up your senses. If you’ve got extra time, make the trip to Trowulan Archaeological Site to explore the incredible Majapahit Empire ruins. Trust me, they’re worth the journey!
See what’s on offer from the Port of Komodo Island for a different Indonesia Cruise destination.
2025 Cruise Schedule Highlights
Planning your Indonesian cruise? Check out these must-know Surabaya port stops for 2025:
- Viking Orion drops anchor for a full 24 hours (April 8 and November 14, 2025) – plenty of time to wander the city without rushing
- Norwegian Sun pulls in during perfect weather (April 7, 2025) with about 2,000 other travelers looking to explore
- Seven Seas Explorer makes three different stops throughout 2024-2025, so you’ve got options
- AIDAstella’s evening visit (February 3, 2025) lets you see the city lights from 10:00-21:00
- Want fewer crowds? The smaller Paul Gauguin ships offer a more laid-back experience throughout 2025
Historical Significance of Surabaya Port
Stretching back centuries before fancy cruise ships filled its waters, Surabaya Port grew from its simple river roots into one of Southeast Asia’s key shipping hubs.
When you visit this port, you’re literally walking through layers of history. It all started around Jembatan Merah along the Kalimas River, but everything changed when Dutch engineer W.B. Van Goor drew up plans in 1910 for Tanjung Perak. By 1925, this modern harbor had taken over from the old river ports, helping Surabaya boom into Java’s busiest city. The port isn’t just about ships and trade though – it’s woven into Indonesia’s national story, especially during the famous 1945 Battle of Surabaya.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Currency Is Accepted at Port Shops and Nearby Markets?
Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is your go-to for shopping and markets here. Some bigger places might take US dollars in a pinch, but don’t count on it. Better grab some cash before you head out – credit cards aren’t really a thing in the local spots.
Are There Luggage Storage Facilities Available for Day Visitors?
Dragging your bags around Surabaya is a real pain. The port doesn’t have storage spots, unfortunately. But don’t sweat it – check out Nannybag or LuggageHero close by, or try sweet-talking the fancy hotels into watching your stuff for a few hours while you explore.
How Reliable Is Wi-Fi Connectivity at the Cruise Terminal?
The Wi-Fi at the cruise terminal is honestly hit-or-miss. I’d grab a local SIM card instead since the terminal’s network gets swamped when everyone’s trying to connect at once. If you really need decent internet, duck into one of the cafés nearby – they usually have much better connections.
What Local Dishes Should Cruise Passengers Try in Surabaya?
Gotta try Surabaya’s killer street food while you’re in port! Grab some rujak cingur (trust me on this one), sate klopo, or tahu tek from the vendors around town. If you need something to really fill you up after exploring, the local rawon (this crazy-good dark beef soup) or bebek goreng (super crispy duck) will do the trick. Your taste buds can thank me later!
Are There Any Safety Concerns or Areas to Avoid?
The city’s generally safe, but keep your wits about you in busy markets where sticky fingers might be on the prowl. Skip those dimly lit back streets after sunset – nothing good happens there. You’ll have a better time sticking with your cruise buddies anyway.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Semarang Cruise Ship Port.
