We know what you’re thinking, “a bookfair… on a cruise ship?”
Yes, Doulos Hope is a travelling bookfair located on a ship, and it’s currently docked in the waters between VivoCity and Sentosa. But it’s only here until 28th July 2024 before sailing off, so head down while you have the chance.
Doulos Hope when it was docked in Hong Kong.
Image credit: @douloshope via Instagram
Doulos Hope is a vessel that was once a cruise ship – mostly for the now-defunct Star Cruises. It went through a refit in 2023 and is now operated by German charity Gute Bücher für Alle, offering a floating library service that travels mostly around Asia’s waters.
Besides Singapore, it has sailed to various ports such as Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Cambodia, and the Philippines.
Image credit: @tinlauguico via Instagram
You can find over 1,000 titles from 15 different genres – like classic literature, non-fiction books, children’s picture books, and even religious texts. They’re arranged on bookshelves, exactly what you’d expect from a library. The major plus is that you’d get scenic views of Sentosa and its surroundings while browsing.
Image credit: @weehoursreads via Instagram
The books are priced in “units”, with 25 units starting at $1.25. A book that’s labelled “100 units” for example, will cost $5. Besides books, there are also other merchandise like keychains, fidget spinners, and even play dough.
Image credit: @arkatth.w via Instagram
Admission to the floating book fair is free – so you don’t really have to purchase something to make your trip “worth it”. If all you want to do is browse while romanticising your life, feel free to do so.
After your retail therapy, head to Hope Cafe onboard the ship. There is no hot food here, but you can munch on some snacks like Pringles or Calbee Crispee Potato from $1.50, as well as chilled soft drinks.
Image credit: @espressoandsunshine__ via Instagram
There’s plenty of seating for you to sit with your newly bought books and gaze out into the distance too.
Whether or not you’re a bookworm, Doulus Hope is a fun activity to do this weekend. Entrance is free – all you have to do is pre-register online. You can also try walking in, but we wouldn’t recommend that for peak periods like Friday nights or weekends.
Address: VivoCity, 1 HarbourFront Walk, Sentosa Boardwalk, Singapore 098585
Opening hours: Tue-Sun, 3pm-10pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: Doulos Hope Instagram
Cover image adapted from: @douloshope & @tinlauguico via Instagram
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