Are you looking for a short getaway from the hustle and bustle of Singapore? If you answered yes to these questions, then you might want to consider taking a ferry to Batam.
Batam is an island in Indonesia that is only about 20 kilometers away from Singapore. It offers a variety of attractions and activities that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you are into shopping, water sports, spa treatments, golfing, or sightseeing, you will find something to suit your mood in Batam.
In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about taking a ferry to Batam from Singapore. We will also share with you some of the best things to do in Batam and some tips on how to make the most of your trip. Let's get started!
How to Take a Ferry to Batam from Singapore
Taking a ferry to Batam from Singapore is very easy and convenient. There are several ferry operators that offer daily departures from different terminals in Singapore to various ports in Batam. The journey takes about an hour and costs around S$25-S$50 per person depending on the operator, terminal, and destination.
Here are some of the main ferry operators that you can choose from:
| Operator | Terminals | Destinations |
| Sindo Ferry | Harbourfront Centre | Batam Centre, Sekupang, Waterfront |
| Batam Fast Ferry | Harbourfront Centre, Tanah Merah | Batam Centre, Sekupang, Nongsapura, Harbour Bay |
| Majestic Fast Ferry | Harbourfront Centre, Tanah Merah | Batam Centre, Sekupang |
| Horizon Fast Ferry | Harbourfront Centre, Tanah Merah | Harbour Bay |
You can book your ferry tickets online through the websites of the operators or through third-party platforms like here at Trip.com. You can also buy your tickets at the terminals on the day of your departure, but it is advisable to book in advance especially during peak periods like weekends and public holidays.
You will need to present your passport and your booking confirmation at the check-in counter at least 90 minutes before your departure time. You will also need to fill in an immigration card for both Singapore and Indonesia. You can get these cards at the terminals or on board the ferry.
Boarding The Ferry
Once you board the ferry, you can enjoy the scenic views of the sea and the islands along the way. The ferries are air-conditioned and have comfortable seats, toilets, TVs, and snack bars. Some ferries also have VIP cabins that offer more privacy and luxury.
Arrival In Batam
When you arrive at your destination port in Batam, you will need to clear immigration and customs. You can get a visa on arrival for free if you are staying for less than 30 days. You will also need to pay a terminal fee of Rp65,000 (about S$6) per person.
After exiting the port, you can find various modes of transportation to get around Batam. You can take a taxi, a bus, a motorcycle taxi (ojek), or rent a car or a scooter. You can also book a tour package that includes transportation and accommodation.
What to Do in Batam
Batam has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Batam that you should not miss:
Shopping
If you love shopping, you will be spoiled for choice in Batam. You can find everything from branded goods, electronics, souvenirs, handicrafts, batik fabrics, snacks, and more at bargain prices. Some of the best places to shop in Batam are Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall (the largest mall in Batam), Grand Batam Mall (the newest mall in Batam), Mega Mall (near Batam Centre), BCS Mall (near Harbour Bay), DC Mall (near Nongsapura), and Batam City Square (near Sekupang).
Water Sports
One of the signature attractions in Batam is the water sports as it is located right next to the water.You can enjoy activities like water skiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat, flying fish, and more at various locations in Batam. One of the best places to do this is at the Batam Cable Ski Park, where you can glide on the water using a cable system. Another option is to visit Ocarina Beach, a theme park that offers water slides, pools, rides, and games.
Golfing
If you are a golf enthusiast, you will be happy to know that Batam has several golf courses that offer challenging and scenic layouts. You can play golf at Tering Bay Golf & Country Club, Palm Springs Golf & Country Club, Southlinks Country Club, or Radisson Golf & Convention Center.
Spa Treatments
If you want to pamper yourself and relax, you can indulge in a spa treatment in Batam. You can find many spas that offer massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and other services at affordable prices.
Sightseeing
If you want to explore the culture and history of Batam, you can visit some of the interesting landmarks and attractions in the island. You can see the iconic Barelang Bridge (a series of six bridges that connect different islands in Batam), the Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple (the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia), the Masjid Raya Batam (the largest mosque in Batam), the Tua Pek Kong Temple (a Chinese temple with a giant statue of Guan Yin), the Otorita Batam Monument (a monument that commemorates the establishment of Batam as an industrial zone), and the Welcome to Batam Sign (a giant sign that greets visitors to Batam).
How to Make the Most of Your Trip to Batam
Great weather to be out
To make your trip to Batam more enjoyable and memorable, here are some tips that you should keep in mind:
Plan your itinerary ahead of time
You can use online platforms like Trip.com to find recommendations and reviews of the best places to visit and things to do in Batam. You can also book your accommodation, transportation, and activities online to save time and money.
Exchange your money
The currency used in Batam is the Indonesian rupiah (Rp). You can exchange your Singapore dollars (S$) to rupiah at various money changers in Singapore or at the terminals before you board the ferry. You can also use your credit or debit card at some places in Batam, but be aware of the fees and exchange rates.
Be respectful of the local culture and customs
Batam is a predominantly Muslim island, so you should dress modestly and avoid showing too much skin or wearing revealing clothes. You should also avoid drinking alcohol or eating pork in public places or near mosques. You should also greet people with a smile and a handshake and use polite words like "terima kasih" (thank you) and "maaf" (sorry).
Have fun and be adventurous
Batam is a place where you can try new things and have fun without spending too much. You can shop till you drop, enjoy thrilling water sports, relax with a spa treatment, play golf with a view, or explore the cultural and historical sights. You can also sample the delicious local cuisine like nasi padang, mie goreng, ayam penyet, gado-gado, soto ayam, kueh lapis, pisang goreng, and more.
FAQs: Ferry To Batam
Ferry To Batam Conclusion
Traveling by ferry to Batam from Singapore offers a quick escape for a refreshing change of scenery. Whether it's to enjoy a relaxing spa treatment, indulge in water sports activities, get lost in the local shopping scene, or explore the cultural landmarks, Batam is an ideal destination that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences.
With several operators providing daily ferry services, the ease of travel is an added advantage for those seeking a hassle-free journey. Plan your trip, be respectful of the local culture, and remember to enjoy the adventure as you discover everything Batam has to offer.