Boat | Mai and Chris Travel

Muang Ngoy to Oudomxay (Muang Xai) via Nong Khiaw: Same-Day Boat and Minibus Guide

After wrapping up a magical three-night escape in the car-free riverside village of Muang Ngoy, it was time to point our compass further northwest toward Oudomxay (frequently mapped as Muang Xai), the mountainous trading crossroads of Northern Laos. Executing this overland and river trajectory independently requires a two-part transit: first, navigating down the scenic Nam […]

2026.07.05 2026.07.06

Laos

Pakse to Si Phan Don (4000 Islands): A Guide to Avoiding the Common Boat Scam

Planning a trip from Pakse to Si Phan Don (4000 Islands / Don Khong)? Read our step-by-step transit review covering tourist bus bookings, costs, and how we successfully stared down the classic "boat ticket not included" dual-charging scam at the ferry terminal.

2026.07.02 2026.07.06

Laos

Jakarta to Raja Ampat (Kri Island) via Sorong: Flights, Ferries, and Local Tips

Raja Ampat, located in Indonesia’s West Papua province, is widely known for its incredible marine life and coral reefs. However, many independent travellers hesitate to visit because the journey seems complicated. Travelling to Kri Island—one of the main hubs for staying in local homestays—requires a combination of air, land, and sea transport. In this guide, […]

2025.01.02 2026.07.23

Indonesia

We Joined a Snorkelling Tour from Semporna and a guest ‘lost’ their money on the boat!

We joined a day trip snorkelling boat tour from Semporna.There are many companies offering diving and snorkelling tours ...

2023.06.29

Malaysia

How to Cross the Border from Nunukan to Tawau by Ferry: A Complete Guide

Want to cross the border from Indonesia to Malaysia by boat? Our complete guide covers how to buy international ferry tickets from Nunukan to Tawau, register your passport, navigate immigration, and cross the Borneo border stress-free!

2023.06.28 2026.07.16

Border CrossingIndonesiaMalaysia

Tarakan to Nunukan Speedboat Guide: Timetable, Costs, and a Crucial Safety Warning

Planning to take the speedboat from Tarakan to Nunukan? Read our honest travel review covering ticket costs, timetables, and a crucial safety warning about overloaded boats and missing life jackets on this Borneo border route.

2023.06.27 2026.07.16

Indonesia

Maratua to Tarakan Speedboat Guide: What Happens When Your Boat Runs Out of Fuel?

Planning to travel from Maratua Island to Tarakan? Read our honest guide on the weekly Sunday speedboat via Derawan, including transport logistics, foreigner fares, and our wild experience of running out of fuel at sea!

2023.06.27 2026.07.16

Indonesia

Berau to Maratua Island: Speedboat Guide 2026 (Schedule & Price)

Planning a trip to Maratua Island? Discover how to get from Berau via speedboat, including updated 2026 prices, schedules, booking tips, and cash advice.

2023.06.20 2026.07.09

Indonesia

Mahakam River Boat Tour from Kota Bangun: Irrawaddy Dolphin Watching & Dayak Stilted Villages

Planning a Mahakam River boat tour from Kota Bangun? Read our independent guide on chartering a local 'ces' boat, costs, dolphin watching spots, and visiting remote Dayak stilted villages.

2023.06.19 2026.07.08

Indonesia