How To Go To Desaru From Singapore By Ferry

 

Desaru has always been one of my favourite getaways with its beautiful beaches, great resorts, and fun activities for all ages.

It’s the perfect spot for Singaporeans wanting to take a quick break without travelling too far.

But the thing I love most is how easy it is to get to Desaru!

In this article, I’ll walk you through how to go to Desaru from Singapore by ferry for a hassle-free trip.

 

Overview

Desaru Ferry Routes 

There are two ferry routes that will take you from Singapore to Desaru:

• Tanah Merah to Desaru Coast: The most direct route. After a 90-minute ferry ride, it’s just a 5-10 minute shuttle or car ride to your hotel.

• Tanah Merah to Tanjung Pengelih: A 45-minute ferry ride, followed by a 35-40 minute car ride to your destination.

 

If you’re like me and staying at one of the Desaru Coast resorts, I’d recommend taking the Tanah Merah to Desaru Coast route—it’s the most convenient ferry option.

Read Also: Top 3 Ways To Get To Desaru From Singapore

However, during rough sea conditions, the ferry may be diverted to Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal. 

In this case, a free shuttle bus will be arranged to take you to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal.

Under normal conditions, there is no free shuttle from Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal to Desaru Coast, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport ahead of time. 

For travelers heading to the Pengerang area, taking the ferry to Tanjung Pengelih is the better option.

 

Desaru Ferry Prices

Ferry prices are the same for all ages and include terminal fees.

Route	One-Way (SGD)	Return (SGD)
Tanah Merah – Desaru Coast	70	108
Tanah Merah – Tanjung Pengelih	43	73

Read Also: Ferry To Hard Rock Desaru From Singapore

 

Ferry Schedule

Route	Departure (SG → MY)	Return (MY → SG)
Tanah Merah – Desaru Coast	8:30 am (Thu-Mon)	5:30 pm (Thu-Mon)
Tanah Merah – Tanjung Pengelih	10:40 am (Fri-Sun)	4:00 pm (Fri-Sun)

With just one ferry daily per route, you need to be on time or risk missing your boat!

Now that you’re familiar with the ferry routes, schedule and prices, here’s a step-by-step guide to travel to Desaru from Singapore via ferry: Ferry To Desaru From Singapore

Alternatively, if ferries aren’t your thing, you can also choose a taxi service from Singapore to Desaru. I’ve personally had a great experience with JBTAXI.SG on a trip to Desaru. I travelled with my family and found the ride spacious, affordable, and convenient!

 

Step 1: Purchase Ferry Ticket Online Or Over The Counter

Book your tickets directly on the ferry operator BatamFast’s official website or buy them at the ferry terminal.

 

Before booking, ensure you:

• Have all required visas, health documents, and paperwork.
• Your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the travel date.

Read Also: How To Get To Westin Desaru From Singapore  

 

Step 2: Make Your Way To Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal

On your travel date, head to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.

You can take the MRT East-West line and alight at Bedok or Tanah Merah MRT Station.

Then, take the public bus SBS 35 towards the ferry terminal.

The bus stops right at the terminal entrance, and it’s just a short 3-minute walk to the terminal from the bus stop. 

 

Step 3: Check-in And Clear Singapore Immigration

At the terminal, go to the BatamFast ticketing counter and present your passport to check in and collect your boarding passes.

Next, proceed to baggage check and customs to clear Singapore immigration. 

Once done, head to the departure lounge and wait to board your ferry.

 

Step 4: Board Ferry to Desaru

15 minutes before departure, board your ferry to Desaru and enjoy the ride!

 

Step 5: Arrive At Desaru And Clear Malaysia Immigration 

Now that you’ve arrived at Desaru, disembark the ferry and proceed to clear Malaysia customs.

If you’ve arrived at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal, take advantage of the free shuttle bus for a ride to the resorts along the route.

If you’ve arrived at Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal, don’t forget to arrange your own onward transport in advance!

 

Singapore To Desaru by Ferry: Advantages & Disadvantages

Taking the ferry has its pros and cons, and I’ve included them here to help you decide!

Advantages	Disadvantages
Direct Travel: Straightforward route to Desaru.	Not Flexible: Limited schedule with only one departure per day on operating days.
No Traffic: No delays or traffic jams especially at the land border.	Possible Diversions: Due to unfriendly sea conditions, ferries may be rerouted.
Free Shuttle Bus: For travellers arriving at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal and staying at the Desaru Coast resorts.	Not Convenient: Immigration clearance and luggage must be managed independently.
Affordable For Solo or Pair Travellers: Travel costs may be cheaper compared to private taxi transport.	Need To Arrange Own Transport: If arriving at Tanjung Pengelih or if arriving at Desaru Coast but not staying at the resort area.
	Expensive For Families: Ticket prices add up and are the same price even for children.

 

Conclusion

If you prefer to skip the ferry, I would recommend booking a private taxi with JBTAXI.SG.

This private taxi from Singapore to JB offers a seamless and comfortable ride and it’s truly a stress-free experience!