Ferry from Singapore to Desaru: Schedule & Prices 2025 (FAQ)

Ferry from Singapore to Desaru: Schedule & Prices 2025 (FAQ)

Ferry from Singapore to Desaru: Schedule & Prices 2025 (FAQ) — Direct answer: Yes, there is a regular ferry service from Tanah Merah (Singapore) to Desaru Coast (Malaysia). As of 2025, the service is run by BatamFast/Desaru ferry partners with roughly one daily round-trip sail (about 90 minutes each way) and typical one-way fares around S$70 and return fares around S$108.

Ferry from Singapore to Desaru: quick facts (what you need to know)

• Operator: BatamFast / Desaru ferry partners (book via BatamFast or major booking platforms).
• Departure terminal (Singapore): Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (TMFT). Arrival terminal (Malaysia): Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal (DCFT) — note: sometimes ferries divert to Tanjung Pengelih and provide coach transfers to Desaru Coast during rough seas.
• Travel time: about 1.5 hours (90 minutes) typical.
• Typical schedule in 2025: one sailing from Singapore in the morning and one return from Desaru in the late afternoon (examples: SG departure 10:10 / return 17:30 — check date-specific timetables before travel). Operating days vary by season but common service days are Thursday–Monday or Thursday–Sunday depending on timetable updates. Always confirm the sailing date you plan to travel.
• Typical fares (2025 ballpark): one-way ≈ S$70; return ≈ S$108. Prices may change for peak dates, public holidays or promotions.

Detailed schedule & days of operation (2025)

Schedules have changed a few times since the route launched. In mid–2025 the published timetable indicated a morning departure from Tanah Merah and an evening return from Desaru with one round-trip per day on selected days of the week (operators updated schedules effective 7 July 2025). Days of operation can be:

• Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday (example timetable showing a 10:10 SGT departure and 17:30 MYT return).
• Other booking platforms and travel guides have also reported an 08:30 SGT departure with 17:30 return on some schedules — that difference is why you must confirm your exact sailing on the operator’s booking page before you travel.

Practical tip: Check the operator (BatamFast) timetable for the specific date you want to travel. Timetables are sometimes adjusted for seasonality, holidays and weather.

Fares, baggage & booking (what to expect)

• Base fares (common 2025 rates): one-way ≈ S$70, return ≈ S$108. These usually include terminal fees and fuel surcharges but may exclude oversized-check-in luggage fees.
• Luggage: regular carry-on is typically included; oversized or odd-sized items (e.g., surfboards, large golf bags) can attract extra charges — check operator policies and pay any special baggage fees as required.
• Booking channels: BatamFast official site is the primary booking channel; third-party sellers (redBus, Traveloka, directferries, etc.) also sell tickets and sometimes run promo codes. Compare final total price (taxes/surcharges) before you book.
• Seat classes: most sailings are economy; early-booking and promotional fares may be available. Refund and change policies vary — read terms during booking.

Immigration & check‑in process (step‑by‑step)

1. Arrive at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal at least 60–90 minutes before departure during peak periods; the operator will state recommended check-in time on your ticket.
2. Check in at the operator counter with printed or e-ticket and passport. Singapore and Malaysia both require passport clearance — you will clear Singapore immigration outbound, then Malaysia immigration on arrival (and vice versa on return). Keep passport validity at least six months where applicable.
3. Security screening and boarding. Boarding usually closes 20–30 minutes before departure. Follow crew instructions and keep travel documents handy.
4. If the ferry diverts to Tanjung Pengelih because of rough seas, a coach transfer is typically arranged between Tanjung Pengelih and Desaru Coast — allow extra travel time if diversion occurs.

When might the ferry divert or not run?

During the Northeast Monsoon (roughly late-November to February) or in severe weather, sailings may be diverted from Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal to Tanjung Pengelih (a nearby ferry terminal) with a coach transfer to Desaru Coast. Operators reserve the right to change routings and suspend sailings for safety — always check the operator’s latest notices before departure.

Sample day-trip itinerary (easy plan for Singapore travellers)

• 06:30–08:00 — Travel to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (allow extra time for traffic and check-in).
• 08:30 / 10:10 — Depart Tanah Merah (depending on the sailing you booked).
• 10:00–11:30 — Arrive Desaru (clear Malaysian immigration). Transfer to resort or local attractions.
• Full day — beach, waterpark, dining, or spa (Desaru Coast and nearby resorts offer day use and attraction options). You can prebook hotels such as Tunamaya Beach Resort, Hard Rock Hotel Desaru, Four Points by Sheraton Desaru or The Westin Desaru for late check-out or overnight stays.
• 17:30 — Depart Desaru back to Tanah Merah (confirm return time on your ticket).

Estimated costs for a 1-day Desaru trip from Singapore (per person)

• Ferry return: ≈ S$108 (average).
• Transport to TMFT (taxi/Grab/MRT+bus): S$5–S$35 depending on mode and group size.
• Meals & activities: S$30–S$120 depending on choices (waterpark, dining, spa add extra).
• Optional resort day pass or hotel stay: S$50–S$300+ depending on property and inclusions.

Desaru vs driving (should you self-drive or take the ferry?)

• Ferry pros: no driving, relaxed sea transfer, avoid Johor traffic & tolls, direct arrival near Desaru Coast resorts, good for travellers without a car.
• Ferry cons: fixed departure/return times (limited daily sailings), more expensive than driving for groups, may divert in rough weather.
• Driving pros: flexible timing, good if travelling with family and lots of luggage, faster door-to-door if traffic good ( ~1.5–2 hours drive excluding wait times).
• Driving cons: immigration queue, tolls, potential congestion at Johor Causeway/Second Link and parking charges at resort.

Top travel tips (from experienced Singapore travellers)

• Book early for weekends and school holidays — sailings can sell out.
• Bring your passport with at least six months validity and print your ferry e-ticket.
• Check the operator’s diversion notices in monsoon season (Nov–Feb). If diverted, expect a coach transfer that adds time.
• Travel light if possible to avoid baggage check fees; call the operator if you have bulky sports equipment.
• If you plan to stay overnight, reserve your resort in advance — popular choices include The Westin Desaru, Tunamaya Beach Resort and Hard Rock Hotel. (Links above.)

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q: How long is the ferry ride from Singapore to Desaru?

A: Around 90 minutes (1.5 hours) in normal sea conditions. Allow extra time for check-in and immigration.

Q: How much does the ferry cost in 2025?

A: Typical published fares in 2025 have been roughly S$70 one-way and S$108 return. Prices can vary for peak dates and promotions — always check the final price during booking.

Q: Do I need a visa to enter Malaysia (Desaru) from Singapore?

A: Most Singapore passport holders do not need a tourist visa for short visits to Malaysia. If you hold a different passport, check Malaysian visa requirements for your nationality before travel. For up-to-date visa rules consult the Malaysian immigration website or your local consulate.

Q: Can the ferry carry cars?

A: No — this passenger ferry is for foot passengers only. If you want to drive, use the Johor road links.

Q: What if the sea is rough or the ferry is cancelled?

A: Operators will cancel or divert services for safety. If diverted to Tanjung Pengelih, a coach transfer to Desaru Coast is generally arranged. Keep contact details and check operator notices for refunds or rebooking options.

Q: Where can I find travel packages that include ferry + hotel?

A: WeekendGoWhere lists Desaru hotel packages. Examples you can book: Desaru | Tunamaya Beach Resort, Desaru | Hard Rock Hotel, Four Points by Sheraton Desaru and The Westin Desaru. These let you combine ferry options and stays for convenience.

Related reading & internal link suggestions

• 5 Things To Do In Desaru — quick ideas for your day or overnight trip.
• [2023] Start Planning to Batam! — for readers deciding between Batam, Bintan or Desaru.
• Top 5 Bintan Resort in May 2025 — compare island resort options close to Singapore.
• How to Travel from Singapore to Batam (FAQ) — useful if you prefer Indonesian isles instead of Desaru.

Final checklist before you go

• Passport (6 months validity recommended) & e-ticket printed or on phone.
• Confirm exact sailing time & terminal on the operator booking page the day before travel.
• Arrive early for check-in and immigration (60–90 minutes recommended on busy days).
• Pack light to avoid excess luggage fees and be prepared for coach transfers if diversion happens.

Ready to book? 👉 Check our latest Desaru packages and WhatsApp us to book now.