Feeling the travel bug bite? After weeks of festivities, a change of scenery might be just what you need, and it doesn’t have to involve a flight. We’ve rounded up four easy getaways from Singapore that are all reachable by ferry, ideal for anyone craving a laid-back escape. You’ll find yourself on pristine beaches or wandering charming coastal towns in no time.
Desaru
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If you’re looking for an action-packed beach vacation, Desaru might just be the right destination for you. One of the most popular attractions at Desaru Coast is Adventure Waterpark, which houses the first water roller coaster in the region!
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The ferry operates five days a week (Thursday through Monday), with each leg of the journey taking approximately 90 minutes. Batam Fast is the sole operator for the Singapore (Tanah Merah) to Desaru Coast route, typically running one to two trips daily. Ferries usually depart from Singapore at 10:10 AM and return from Desaru at 5:30 PM. While the schedule remains consistent for long weekends, it is subject to seasonal changes or additional sailings during peak holiday periods.
A one-way ferry ticket costs S$70 while a return ticket costs S$108.
Simply visit www.batamfast.com or use the BATAMFAST’s Mobile App to make your booking. Enter your chosen promo code at checkout to apply your discount instantly.
Bintan
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Bintan has always been a popular choice for a weekend getaway. There are plenty of attractions for you to choose from. Snorkelling, Mangrove exploration, Temple Visiting or Spa and Massages at your resorts spa if you’re looking to unwind and relax.
Head down to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (TMFT) to catch a ferry to Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) Ferry Terminal at Bintan Resorts. There are regular services operated by Bintan Resorts Ferries (BRF) daily. The journey there only takes 60 minutes.
Book your ferry tickets here for your next weekend getaway!
Batam
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Batam is also a popular destination for a day trip from Singapore. Batam and Bintan offers very similar activities like fun water sports and affordable spa and massages. There are also plenty of picturesque landmarks in Batam to visit, like the Barelang Bridge.
There are frequent ferries from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (TMFT) to Batam daily. There are six ferry terminals; Sekupang, Waterfront City, Batam Center, Harbour Bay, Nongsapura and Telaga Punggur. The journey to Batam Island takes an estimate of 40 minutes.
Tickets start from S$40.00 and varies depending on ferry providers and dates.
Pulau Ubin
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Located off Singapore’s north-eastern coast, one can experience both nature and history at Pulau Ubin. If you’re an outdoors lover, take a day trip down to Pulau Ubin. Explore bike trials, mangroves and the diverse habitats Pulau Ubin offers as a nature sanctuary. You can even set up camp (with a permit of course) if you’re feeling adventurous.
The small island is just a 15-minutes bumboat ride from Changi Ferry Terminal. The journey typically costs S$4 per person each way, with an additional S$2 for bicycles. The boats run from 7am – 7pm daily and there are no set schedules. Just pay the fees directly to the boat captain and they will set sail when the boat is full. Remember to bring enough cash!
Lazarus Island
Who says you need a passport for a stunning island escape? For a true local getaway, look no further than Lazarus Island, one of Singapore’s best-kept secrets. Just a short scenic ferry ride from Marina South Pier, this tranquil island boasts one of the most pristine, C-shaped lagoon beaches in the country, offering soft white sands and calm, turquoise waters.
Your day can be as relaxed or as active as you wish. Unwind with a picnic on the beach, fly a kite against the blue sky, or try your hand at fishing from the jetty. For the more adventurous, the Lazarus Sea Sports Centre offers activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
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Extend your day trip into a unique overnight experience. You can book a modern beachfront glamping tent with Into the Woods, which offers sea views and a chance to sleep under the stars in comfort. Alternatively, for a cozy and sustainable stay, check out the eco-friendly Tiny Away Escape tiny houses, which come equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable island retreat.
