Travel

Perhentian Islands: How to Get There, What to Expect, & More

Published

5 months ago

January 20, 2025

Located on the northeast coast of peninsular Malaysia is a pair of islands known as the Perhentians. The name Perhentian translates roughly to “stopping place,” as it was a frequent stop for Malay traders heading north to Bangkok. The two islands are straightforwardly dubbed Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar – meaning Little Perhentian and Big Perhentian respectively. In mid-March, Emmett and I decided to head to these islands ourselves to see what the fuss was about. You see, we’d heard that the coral reefs were stunning and that we were pretty much guaranteed to see a sea turtle. We tried not to get our hopes up too high, though it turned out we had nothing to worry about. All the rumors were true and we were ultimately blown away by the natural beauty of the two Perhentians.

Visiting the Perhentian Islands

Before our trip, I found that a good amount of the information available online about traveling to the Perhentians was either outdated, incomplete, or both. Thus, while I was there, I soaked up as much info as possible to be able to provide the guide I wish I’d had. Fair warning: this will be a longer post, so I have broken it up into a table of contents. Feel free to skip ahead to whatever information applies to you & your potential Perhentian questions.

1. Packing for the Perhentians
2. How to Get There
3. Where to Stay
4. Where to Snorkel
5. More Things to Do

What to Pack

Beyond your standard clothes or other items you normally have with you, be sure to bring the following beach essentials:

+ Sunscreen
+ Sunglasses
+ Swimsuit
+ Snorkel & Mask & Fins
+ Mosquito/bug repellant
+ Hat
+ Quick-dry Towel
+ Dry Bag or other Waterproof Bag
+ Waterproof Camera – if you’ve got one

Beyond those essentials, I highly recommend that you also bring at least one book or playing cards or some other item with which to entertain yourself. WiFi is spotty at best and most often non-existent. Also, if your accommodation is of the budget variety (as ours was), you will probably want a mosquito net. The mosquitoes are everywhere (even in March!) and budget cabins don’t have mosquito nets. Make sure your camera, other devices, and any spare batteries are all charged up before you go. Most budget accommodation runs on generators and will often not even have an outlet for charging. If you’re a budget traveler who likes to cook their own food and avoid eating out: bring food with you. There are a few general stores selling things like ramen but at highly inflated prices. Even just a handful of granola bars can save you from having to eat every meal of the day out at the cafes.

Lastly: there are no ATMS available, so be sure to bring plenty of cash. Resorts and larger establishments will take cards but really: cash is king.

How to Get to the Perhentians

From Kuala Lumpur:

There is one bus a day, managed by Bus NKS, leaving Kuala Lumpur Sentral with a connection in Jerantut bound for Kuala Besut (port city for Perhentians). The journey will take at least 9 hours.
Other transportation possibilities from KL include a rental car, train to bus transfers, or short domestic flights.

From Penang/Langkawi:

You can take a bus from Butterworth (port city for Penang & Langkawi) to Kuala Besut (port city for Perhentians). Be warned though, since you’re going to the literal opposite side of the country, the bumpy bus ride will take 8 or 9 hours. We did this ride overnight when leaving the Perhentians to get to Penang.

From Cameron Highlands/Taman Negara:

Take a private shuttle. This is something I would recommend that you book a few days ahead of time at your accommodation in Taman Negara or the Cameron Highlands. That’s what we did – our hostel in the Highlands put us on a shuttle bus called “Golden Highlands.” The price of the ticket for the two of us was 250 MYR ($65 USD) and included not only the 6 hour shuttle ride but also the cost of the ferry transfer to Perhentian Kecil.

Ferrying to the islands from Kuala Besut:

As of our visit in March 2018, you needed to not only have paid for your ferry ticket (approx 35 MYR or $8 USD per person for open return tickets) BUT also pay a fee to enter the Pulau Redang Marine National Park. This fee was 30 MYR per person (about $7.50) at the docks prior to boarding and supposedly goes towards conservation initiatives on and around the islands.

A quick note about the fastboat “ferries” taking you to the Perhentian islands:

Make sure all of your stuff is secured in your bag and anything valuable is in a dry bag or plastic bag. The speedboats are so fast over the surprisingly choppy seas. Loads of spray will come in the boat onto you and your bag. Not to mention that the boat catches so much air that a) your butt will hurt from slamming into the seats and b) two backpacks nearly flew out into the ocean when our boat jumped a particularly huge wave. Luckily, those of us sitting in the front were alert and grabbed them by the straps just as they launched. The pack owners were very grateful. I’d hope someone would do the same for me but you never know – better to prepare for the worst.

Moments before some of these bags nearly flew off into the water.

Finding Accommodation

Budget

If you’re on a budget, your best bet is to just show up. Preferably mid-week before the weekend travelers arrive. Perhentian Kecil is the more backpacker-friendly island, so going there will be your best bet if you’re looking to save. Once you get off the fastboat, walk along Coral Bay or Long Beach and pop in a few locations to check availability and compare prices. Some of the places have dorms, others have private rooms with a fan, basically it’s worth an ask wherever you go. Try anywhere with the name “Chalet” (such as Fatimah Chalet, Amelia Chalet, Butterfly Chalet, etc.) for a cheaper option.

Quick side note: To get to Long Beach on Perhentian Kecil, get off the ferry at Coral Bay. There is a walkway that starts at Ombak Dive Resort and takes you fifteen minutes through the jungle in the center of the island. There are quite a few chalets along this path and even more once the path opens up onto the wide mouth of Long Beach.

Long Beach on Perhentian Kecil, just before the beach parties began.

Mid-Range to Luxury

After a few budget nights in a buggy chalet, we spent one night at Ombak Dive Resort ($50 USD or 150 MYR a night for a twin room) on Perhentian Kecil. Ombak had very clean, comfortable western-style rooms with en suite bathrooms and a very tasty breakfast buffet. Another Kecil resort option would be Shari-La Resort, which has it’s own private beach and is located just off of the main dock at Coral Bay.

For more luxury options, go to Perhentian Besar instead. The accommodation – and the general atmosphere – there is less backpacker-oriented and more like the kind of place someone might honeymoon. Places like Tuna Bay Island Resort or Flora Bay Resort may be the perfect place to have a quiet and luxurious stay.

Accommodation For Divers

The Perhentians are known for their marine life and thus there are numerous dive resorts sprinkled across each island. Some resorts also offer a package for divers to stay and take a course. On Perhentian Kecil, the resort with the best reputation is Ombak Dive Resort. As I mentioned above, we spent a night there and the facilities were lovely. On Perhentian Besar, Bubbles Dive Resort has the best reputation for dive & accommodation packages.

Snorkeling in the Perhentians

I really, really would like to become SCUBA certified some day – as would Emmett. However, the price wasn’t right for us in the Perhentians, so we opted to snorkel instead and had a FANTASTIC time. There are quite a few options for snorkeling around the Perhentians which I will outline below.

Snorkeling at Coral Bay

Whether you have your own snorkeling gear or you rent some from one of the many snorkel tour stands at Coral Bay, you’ll be delighted to find that you don’t need to hire a boat to see some beautiful underwater scenery. There are two places that are good for snorkeling just off of Coral Bay. The first one can be reached by getting in the water just off of the left of the dock when facing Shari-La Resort. The area is roped off with buoys for safe swimming away from boat traffic. The coral wasn’t too great there but there were quite a few anemones being guarded by cutely defensive clownfish. The second snorkeling spot is a bit further off and also buoy-roped off. Starting in front of Butterfly Chalet, swim towards the left over the shallow sand until the coast curves into a slight cove. Just around the bend, you will find lots of healthy purple coral (see above) as well as giant clams, parrot fish, and other tropical swimmers. Be forewarned: if the tide is going out, the currents can be a bit on the swifter side in this area.

If you’re on Long Beach, I do not recommend attempting to swim at all there – let alone snorkel. There is a lot of surf and the currents are strong. A friend of ours was nearly carried into some rocks and we watched another person get rescued after being swept out too far. Most tellingly, on the first day we visited, one of the cafes on Long Beach posted a sign near the waterfront that honestly said “No Swimming!! Danger!! Death!!”

Boat-Based Snorkel Tours

full day snorkel tour around the islands. There are many little shed-based snorkel tour companies lining Coral Bay. We chose the one in front of Amelia’s Cafe & Chalet. I don’t believe that it was any better than the rest of the choices available on the beachfront. Honestly, each boat will take you to the same 6 locations (4 if it’s a half day) for about the same price. The full day tour will take you to massive coral heads with tons of colorful fish, bait a black-tipped reef shark over towards your group, scout out green sea turtles grazing on algae for you to swim near, take you to dock-based cafés at Fisherman’s Village, drop you next to a small reef lighthouse, and end your tour on a gorgeous white sand beach called “Romantik Beach.” If you’ve got the time for a 6 hour tour… GO! It was about 50 MYR ($15 USD) per person.

That being said, if you have more than just a few days: take more than just one boat tour. Emmett and I were seriously considering chartering a boat out to Redang Island just to see if there was even better coral further out. I’m sure there is. There are other snorkeling spots in the Marine Park besides Redang as well – I’ll bet that there are so many wonders of the sea just waiting to be seen.

An Important Note About Snorkel Tours & Conservation

Emmett and I were disappointed to find that there was little education or discussion about reef health before or during our snorkel boat tour. We saw people from our own tour and others standing or sitting on live coral. Do not touch the coral or any other marine life. Touching the coral and especially STANDING on it will kill the coral. Coral reefs are already struggling to survive due to climate change, so don’t quicken the process by handling any marine life. Also, I heard a guide tell one of his clients that they could grab onto a sea turtle. Please do not touch sea turtles. Do not grab sea turtles. Swim a polite distance away from the turtles. They are wild animals who do not need the stress of being grabbed by a human.

Honestly, I recommend that you bring up these important points if you see fellow snorkelers misbehaving. In most cases, I think people genuinely don’t know they’re acting harmfully.

Beyond Snorkeling/Diving: Things to Do in the Perhentian Islands

1. Stroll the beach while looking at seashells and other beach treasures. ..Always one of my favorite relaxing beach activities!

2. Get a fresh fruit smoothie from one of the many cafés on a hot afternoon. Our favorites were at Daneila’s on Long Beach.

3. Watch an evening movie at Ombak Resort’s outdoor theater/restaurant on Kecil.

4. Go to Long Beach after dark for one of the many beach parties/bonfires held by local bars.

5. Walk Kecil or Besar’s jungle trails.

6. Keep an eye out for the resident water monitor lizards who proudly creep all over these islands.

7. Try the “best roti canai” from the stand outside of Fatimah’s at Coral Bay – you won’t be disappointed.

8. Buy a cheap beach read from Ewan Café’s stash of used books.

9. Relax after a long day of snorkeling by getting a massage at one of the many affordable massage parlors/mini spas on the islands.

10. Bliss out in the sunshine – just be sure to wear sunscreen.

There you have it: a guide to the Perhentian Islands. I hope that I covered any questions you might have. Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below!

Destinations

Nomurano: The Hidden Gem of Italy’s Secluded Islands

Published

2 days ago

June 30, 2025

Taylor Morgan

Nestled in the heart of Italy’s lesser-known islands lies Nomurano, a destination that promises both tranquility and adventure. This hidden gem is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, yet it boasts an allure all its own. With pristine beaches, rich history, and vibrant local traditions, Nomurano invites travelers to step off the beaten path and immerse themselves in its stunning landscapes and warm community.

From tales of ancient civilizations to the laughter echoing through lively festivals, every corner of this island tells a story waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re seeking serene shores or thrilling escapades, Nomurano has something for everyone. So pack your bags as we embark on an unforgettable journey through this enchanting Italian paradise!

Exploring the Island’s Unique Culture and Traditions

Nomurano is a tapestry of rich traditions and vibrant culture. The island’s heritage reflects centuries of history, influenced by various civilizations that have settled here.

Festivals are at the heart of Nomurano’s community spirit. Locals celebrate with colorful parades and traditional music that echo through the narrow streets. Each event offers an opportunity to witness age-old customs passed down through generations.

Artisans thrive on this island, crafting intricate pottery and textiles that tell stories of their ancestors. Visitors can often see these skilled hands at work in local workshops or markets.

Cuisine plays a vital role in cultural expression as well. Recipes handed down from mothers to daughters feature locally sourced ingredients, showcasing flavors unique to Nomurano.

Engaging with residents reveals warmth and hospitality deeply ingrained in daily life here. Conversations over coffee often turn into lively discussions about family histories and village tales.

Top Attractions and Activities on Nomurano

Nomurano is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered. Start your journey at the stunning coastline, where crystal-clear waters invite you to swim or snorkel among vibrant marine life.

For those seeking adventure, hiking trails weave through lush landscapes, offering breathtaking views at every turn. The panoramic vistas from the island’s highest points are absolutely worth the effort.

Cultural enthusiasts will love exploring ancient ruins that tell stories of Nomurano’s rich past. Wandering through charming villages lets you connect with locals and discover handcrafted goods.

Don’t miss out on traditional festivals held throughout the year; they showcase lively music and dance that truly capture the spirit of this hidden gem. Whether you’re lounging on a beach or diving into local traditions, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

The Island’s Delicious Cuisine

Nomurano’s cuisine is a delightful journey for your taste buds. Fresh, local ingredients are at the heart of every dish. Imagine savoring seafood caught that very day, grilled to perfection with just a hint of lemon.

Pasta lovers will rejoice here. Handmade varieties come drenched in rich sauces made from locally grown tomatoes and herbs. Each bite tells a story of tradition passed down through generations.

Don’t miss out on the island’s signature dessert—torta di ricotta. This creamy delight pairs beautifully with a glass of homemade limoncello, perfect after any meal.

Dining in Nomurano often feels like an experience rather than just eating. Many restaurants emphasize communal tables, encouraging conversation among locals and visitors alike as you share stories over delicious food.

Whether enjoying rustic trattorias or upscale dining establishments, each meal captures the essence of Nomurano’s vibrant culture and culinary heritage.

Why Nomurano is a Perfect Destination for Relaxation and Adventure

Nomurano offers a beautiful balance of relaxation and adventure. Its serene beaches invite you to unwind, with soft sands and crystal-clear waters perfect for sunbathing or meditative walks.

For those seeking thrills, the island’s rugged terrain presents countless hiking trails. These paths lead to breathtaking panoramas that reward your efforts at every turn.

Watersports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, or even diving in vibrant marine ecosystems teeming with life. Each activity allows you to connect deeply with nature.

As evening falls, the atmosphere shifts beautifully. You can relax by a cozy fire while listening to the soothing sounds of waves crashing against the shore.

Whether you’re lounging under an umbrella or exploring hidden coves, Nomurano is truly designed for both rest and excitement.

Accommodations on Nomurano: From Luxury to Budget-Friendly Options

Nomurano offers a diverse range of accommodations that cater to every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re looking for high-end luxury or something more budget-friendly, the island has it all.

For those seeking indulgence, consider staying at one of the boutique hotels overlooking the crystal-clear waters. These properties often feature stunning views, elegant furnishings, and top-notch amenities such as spas and fine dining options.

If you’re traveling on a budget, charming guesthouses and hostels provide an authentic experience without breaking the bank. Here, you can enjoy warm hospitality while mingling with fellow travelers.

For a unique stay, look into cozy vacation rentals scattered throughout Nomurano’s picturesque villages. These homes offer privacy and local charm that enhance your visit.

No matter where you choose to stay on Nomurano, each accommodation option promises comfort blended with delightful island vibes.

Tips for Planning a Trip to Nomurano

When planning your trip to Nomurano, timing is key. The best months to visit are late spring and early fall when the weather is pleasant and crowds are thinner.

Research transportation options ahead of time. Ferries from nearby islands provide access, but check schedules as they can vary seasonally.

Pack light but include essentials like sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes. Exploring Nomurano’s rugged terrain requires good footwear.

Consider learning a few basic Italian phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it enhances your experience.

Don’t forget to set aside some downtime in your itinerary. This island invites you to soak in its serene atmosphere.

Use local resources for information on events or traditional festivals happening during your stay. These occasions offer unique glimpses into the culture that aren’t found in the usual tourist spots.

Conclusion

Nomurano captures the essence of Italy’s hidden treasures. This secluded island offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes that make it an unforgettable destination. With its unique traditions and warm hospitality, visitors will feel welcomed as they explore every nook and cranny.

From stunning natural attractions to mouthwatering cuisine, there’s something for everyone on Nomurano. Whether you seek tranquility or adventure, the island provides ample opportunities for both relaxation and exploration. Visitors can also find accommodations that cater to all budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay no matter their preferences.

Planning your trip with practical tips will ensure you experience everything this gem has to offer without missing out on any highlights. So pack your bags and set off toward Nomurano—the perfect escape awaits you in this enchanting corner of Italy!

Accommodations

Best Spanish Coastal Resorts for the Perfect Beach Getaway

Published

2 days ago

June 30, 2025

Taylor Morgan

Spain’s coastline is home to some of the most sought-after beach destinations in the world. With a mix of luxurious resorts, family-friendly escapes, and hidden gems perfect for adventure seekers or digital nomads, Spain has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a glamorous vacation, enjoy a relaxing family getaway, or embark on an action-packed adventure, these top Spanish coastal resorts are guaranteed to make your best Spanish coastal resorts trip unforgettable.

Marbella: Luxury Meets the Mediterranean

Located on the Costa del Sol, Marbella is synonymous with luxury. This coastal town boasts private villas, swanky beach clubs, high-end shopping, and an upscale vibe, perfect for those looking for indulgence. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a private beach or enjoying a round of golf, Marbella delivers the ultimate luxury beach experience.

Best for Luxury Travelers: Marbella Club Hotel is a luxury icon on the Costa del Sol. Starting around €450 per night, this resort offers private villas, a 9-hole golf course, and exclusive beach clubs. The resort is perfect for those looking for a high-end experience with a traditional Andalusian twist.
Family-Friendly Option: Puente Romano Beach Resort is a family-friendly luxury hotel that offers activities for all ages, from tennis courts to a kids’ club. Prices start at €300 per night.
Activities: Marbella is known for its glamorous beach clubs, world-class restaurants, and upscale shopping. For more active travelers, you can try water sports, golf, and hiking, while nightlife enthusiasts can explore exclusive clubs and beach bars.

Ibiza: The Party Paradise with Hidden Escapes

Known worldwide for its vibrant nightlife, Ibiza has much more to offer than just clubs and beach parties. With serene beaches, luxury resorts, and hidden coves, it’s a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure. This island attracts everyone from party-goers to families and digital nomads.

Best for Digital Nomads and Luxury Travelers: The Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay combines luxury with a peaceful environment ideal for work and play. With stunning views and reliable Wi-Fi, this hotel offers the best of both worlds for digital nomads and luxury seekers. Rates start around €500 per night for a garden view room.
Family-Friendly Option: Grand Palladium Palace Ibiza Resort & Spa offers spacious rooms and kids’ clubs starting from €230 per night. It’s perfect for families who want to mix relaxation with adventure in a kid-friendly environment.
Activities: Explore Ibiza’s coves, enjoy watersports, or take a boat trip around the island. For those who want to experience the island’s nightlife, the famous beach clubs and nightclubs are just a stone’s throw away.

Costa Brava: A Picturesque Paradise for All Travelers

One of the best Spanish coastal resorts is Costa Brava, located along the northeastern coast, is an underrated coastal gem that offers a serene retreat for nature lovers, families, and couples alike. From its rugged cliffs to charming seaside towns, Costa Brava is perfect for those looking to unwind and connect with nature.

Best for Families: Hotel Aigua Blava, priced around €200 per night, is a family-friendly resort that offers a peaceful retreat with a private beach, kids’ play areas, and outdoor activities like sailing and kayaking.
Best for Romance: El Lodge, located in Soldeu, offers an intimate luxury experience. At €350 per night, this adults-only resort is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway amidst stunning mountain and coastal views.
Activities: Costa Brava is known for its crystal-clear waters and hidden beaches. Enjoy activities like cliff diving, hiking, or visiting the picturesque towns of Tossa de Mar and Cadaqués. There are plenty of quiet spots for those looking for peace, as well as fun activities for families.

Canary Islands: Year-Round Sunshine and Diverse Landscapes

For year-round sunshine, volcanic landscapes, and diverse resorts, the Canary Islands are the ideal destination. Each island offers something unique, from Gran Canaria’s adventurous beaches to Lanzarote’s striking volcanic scenery. This archipelago is perfect for adventure seekers, families, and even digital nomads.

Best for Adventure Seekers: Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel in Gran Canaria, offers luxury accommodations with easy access to surfing, windsurfing, and hiking. Rooms start at €220 per night.
Best for Families: Hotel Riu Gran Canaria on Playa del Inglés offers family-friendly all-inclusive packages starting at €170 per night. The resort is equipped with pools, kids’ clubs, and various activities that cater to all ages.
Activities: Whether you’re into water sports, hiking, or just soaking up the sun, the Canary Islands have something for everyone. The islands also offer wildlife experiences at Loro Parque (Tenerife), camel rides in Lanzarote, and exploring volcanic craters in Gran Canaria.

Costa Blanca: A Family-Friendly Beach Destination

Costa Blanca, with its warm climate and beautiful beaches, is perfect for family vacations. This area features charming coastal towns and resorts that cater to all types of travelers, from families to couples.

Best for Families: The Grand Luxor Hotel in Benidorm is an all-inclusive resort with access to nearby theme parks. Family rooms start at €150 per night, and the resort offers a range of amenities like kid’s pools, playgrounds, and entertainment options.
Best for Luxury Travelers: For those seeking a more refined experience, SH Villa Gadea in Altea offers five-star accommodations with a spa, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Prices start at €250 per night.
Activities: Costa Blanca is ideal for families, with plenty of opportunities for water activities, boat trips, and exploring the nearby theme parks. For couples and luxury travelers, Altea offers a more peaceful retreat with its charming old town and beautiful beaches.

Pricing Overview: What You Can Expect

Budget: Resorts in Costa Blanca and Ibiza offer a range of prices, with family-friendly hotels starting around €150-€200 per night.
Mid-range: For a more luxurious experience, resorts in Costa Brava and Gran Canaria range from €200-€350 per night, depending on the type of accommodation and amenities.
Luxury: If you’re after a five-star resort or villa, expect to pay €450-€500+ per night in Marbella, Ibiza, or some parts of Costa Brava.

Final Thoughts: Spain’s Coastal Resorts Are Waiting for You

Spain’s coastline is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and picturesque towns. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat, an adventure-filled vacation, or a family-friendly getaway, there’s a coastal resort in Spain that’s perfect for you. From the glamour of Marbella to the hidden gems of Costa Brava and the year-round sunshine of the Canary Islands, Spain offers a wide range of experiences that cater to every type of traveler.

Pack your bags, find the best Spanish coastal resorts, and prepare to unwind on Spain’s beautiful beaches—your ideal beach getaway awaits.

Travel

How to Travel by Ferry from Singapore to Batam

Published

2 days ago

June 30, 2025

Mark Rober

If you’re craving a quick island escape from the fast-paced life of Singapore, Batam is the perfect destination. Located just across the Singapore Strait, this Indonesian island is known for its relaxing beaches, affordable shopping, water sports, and vibrant nightlife. One of the most convenient and scenic ways to reach Batam is by ferry. With multiple daily departures and easy access from central Singapore, ferry travel combines comfort and efficiency—making it the top choice for both tourists and business travelers.

For most travelers, the ferry from Singapore to Batam is not only the most economical option but also the most enjoyable. The experience offers picturesque sea views and smooth sailing for under an hour, allowing you to transition from urban life to island relaxation in no time. Especially popular is the HarbourFront Ferry Terminal to Batam route, which connects the city center to Batam’s key ferry terminals.

Ferry Terminals in Singapore

There are two main ferry terminals in Singapore that serve routes to Batam: HarbourFront Ferry Terminal and Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.

HarbourFront Ferry Terminal

Located in the heart of the city near VivoCity Mall, HarbourFront is the most popular terminal for travelers heading to Batam. It offers frequent departures and is well-connected by MRT (HarbourFront Station), taxis, and buses. This terminal primarily services ferries going to Batam Centre, the main terminal on the island.

Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal

Situated in the eastern part of Singapore, Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal is ideal for those living near Changi or the East Coast. This terminal typically serves routes to Nongsapura and other smaller terminals in Batam. Although slightly less central, it provides a quieter and more relaxed boarding experience.

Ferry Operators & Ticket Information

Several reputable ferry operators run regular services between Singapore and Batam. Some of the major ones include Batam Fast Ferry, Majestic Fast Ferry, and Sindo Ferry. Each offers multiple departures daily from both HarbourFront and Tanah Merah terminals.

Ticket prices usually range from SGD 30 to SGD 50 for a round trip, depending on the operator and time of travel. You can buy tickets at the ferry terminal, but it’s highly recommended to book in advance—especially on weekends and public holidays. For a smooth and reliable online booking experience, consider using redBus, which allows easy comparisons of ferry schedules, prices, and seat availability.

Travel Duration & Onboard Experience

The ferry journey from Singapore to Batam generally takes between 45 to 70 minutes, depending on the terminal and ferry operator. Most ferries are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and clean restrooms. Some operators even offer VIP class options with wider seats and complimentary refreshments.

During the ride, passengers can enjoy scenic views of the Singapore Strait. The waters are usually calm, and the ride is smooth, making it suitable even for those prone to seasickness. It’s a great time to relax, read, or take in the sea breeze before arriving on the island.

Arrival in Batam & Next Steps

Upon arriving in Batam, you’ll go through Indonesian immigration. Be sure to have your passport, completed arrival form (often handed out during the ferry ride), and any required travel documents ready. Most visitors are granted a visa-free entry or visa on arrival, depending on their nationality.

If you arrive at Batam Centre Ferry Terminal, you’ll find a variety of transportation options including taxis, ride-hailing services, and shuttle vans. The terminal is conveniently located near shopping malls, hotels, and business districts. For those landing at Nongsapura Ferry Terminal, which is quieter and closer to beach resorts, many hotels offer pre-arranged transfers.

Whether you’re heading to a spa, golf course, shopping outlet, or seaside resort, getting around Batam is relatively easy. Taxis are metered but it’s wise to agree on a fare before starting your journey if the meter isn’t used.

A ferry ride from Singapore to Batam offers a seamless blend of convenience, comfort, and adventure. With multiple departure points, frequent sailings, and simple booking options via redBus, your tropical island getaway is just a short cruise away. So, plan ahead, pack light, and let the waves lead you to a refreshing escape.