Singapore to Bintan Ferry 2026: How to Cross Borders
Ready to escape Singapore's city bustle for Indonesia's tropical beaches? Here is your complete 2026 guide to taking the 1-hour ferry to Bintan Island.


How to take the ferry from Singapore to Bintan Island
Planning your next tropical getaway to Southeast Asia?
If you are still deciding where to go,
here is an incredible travel hack to experience two different countries with a single flight ticket.
Enjoy the vibrant city life of Singapore, then hop on a ferry
and arrive on the pristine shores of Bintan, Indonesia, in just 1 hour!
If you want to combine urban sophistication with a relaxing beach escape,
make sure to read this complete guide to the end.
🏝️ Why You Should Combine Singapore and Bintan
Pairing Singapore with Bintan elevates your vacation experience to a whole new level.
1. Two Countries, One Trip:
Experience the contrast between ultra-modern Singapore and the laid-back, exotic charm of Indonesia.
2. Smart Budgeting: What you would spend on a single meal in Singapore
can easily cover a fresh seafood feast or a private tour in Bintan.
3. Ultimate Luxury Relaxation: Swap the concrete jungle for stunning beachfront resorts
and private pool villas designed for ultimate rejuvenation.
🚕 Only 15 Minutes from Changi Airport? It's Closer Than You Think!


Taking the ferry from Singapore to Bintan Island
"Is crossing the border complicated?" Not at all!
Getting to Bintan is incredibly straightforward.
15 Minutes from Changi Airport: The terminal is located right next to the airport,
making it a perfect stop immediately after you land or right before you fly home.
A Quick 1-Hour Ferry Ride: Boarding from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal,
the journey is shorter than most daily commutes.
Since there is no need for connecting flights, it is an incredibly convenient option
for families traveling with children.
⛴️ Step 1. Booking Your Singapore to Bintan Ferry


Singapore to Bintan Ferry Booking
During peak travel seasons like summer, ferry tickets to Bintan sell out very quickly.
💰 Estimated Round-Trip Prices
Economy Class: ~$58 to ~$70
Emerald Class (Business): ~$90 to ~$102
Sunday afternoon return ferries back to Singapore are particularly competitive.
If you don't book in advance, you might end up like me—
having to take an early morning boat and missing out on the resort breakfast!
Summer Promotions Active
Get up to 12% off select hotel bookings
🛂 Step 2. Terminal Arrival & Customs Clearance

Boarding the ferry at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal
Location: Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (TMFT)
Requirements: Passport (must have at least 6 months validity!)
Check-in: Recommended to arrive at least 90 minutes before departure
Since the terminal is right next to Changi Airport, you can easily take a Grab or taxi.
Once there, drop your luggage, go through immigration, and you are ready to board.
Pro Tip: The ferry's air conditioning can be quite cold, so bringing a light jacket is highly recommended!
📝 Step 3. Arriving in Bintan & Visa on Arrival (VOA)


Arriving at Bintan Island Ferry Terminal
Upon arrival at the Bintan terminal, you will go through Indonesian immigration.
Visa on Arrival (VOA) Costs:
7-Day Visa: Approx. 250,000 to 260,000 IDR
30-Day Visa: Approx. 500,000 to 510,000 IDR
It is highly recommended to exchange some cash into Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) while you are in Singapore.
Try to have the exact amount ready, as the immigration counters might not always have change.
🏨 Step 4. Utilizing Your Resort's Pickup Service
After passing through customs, you will find resort representatives
holding up signs with resort names and guest lists.
Simply find your resort representative, and they will safely transport you
directly to your luxury villa. From this moment on, your tropical escape officially begins!
🔥 Essential Checklist Before You Go
The summer months of June, July, and August are peak travel seasons for both Singapore and Bintan.
Weekend ferry tickets should be booked at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance.
Avoid the hassle of missing out on your precious vacation time by securing your seats early!
👇 Check current seat availability below 👇
Recommended Bintan Activities
Best Southeast Asia Destinations: Combine Singapore and Bintan in One Trip
Recommended Bintan Resorts
https://blog.naver.com/jeju_dack/224190509969
Natra Bintan Review: Glamping and the Largest Pool in Southeast Asia
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I take the ferry from Singapore to Bintan, Indonesia, and how long does it take?
You can board the ferry at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, which is a 15-minute drive from Singapore Changi Airport. The ferry ride to Bintan takes about 1 hour. It is recommended to arrive at the terminal at least 90 minutes before departure for immigration clearance.
Approximately how much is a round-trip ferry ticket from Singapore to Bintan?
For a round trip, economy class is around ~$58 to ~$70, and emerald (business) class is around ~$90 to ~$102. Ferries during weekends or the summer peak season sell out quickly, so it is advisable to book at least 2 to 3 weeks in advance.
How much is the Visa on Arrival (VOA) in Bintan, Indonesia, and what should I be aware of when paying?
The VOA costs about 250,000 to 260,000 Rupiah for a 7-day pass, and about 500,000 to 510,000 Rupiah for a 30-day pass. As they may not provide change locally, it is best to prepare the exact amount in Rupiah cash beforehand in Singapore.
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