Bintan Island is located in the Riau Archipelago of Indonesia, which is only a short ferry ride away from the metropolitan Singapore. This proximity may be why it is one of the most popular travel destinations for Singaporeans, especially for a weekend getaway or mini vacation. They feature everything from luxury resorts with private beaches and water sports, to rich architectural remnants and Dutch colonial history.
Let’s say you want to visit this coastal island for an unforgettable trip. But what is the best way to get from Singapore to Bintan?
Credits to AllIndonesiaTourism
First, you should know that you can find 2 ferry routes operating between Singapore and Bintan, all of which run regularly. The most popular harbour in Bintan is Sri Bintan Pura Ferry Terminal in Tanjung Pinang, the capital city of the Riau Islands. Among the many ferry operators running these routes, Sindo Ferry is one of the oldest and biggest ones. They have been serving this route for over 20 years!
How long is a ferry from Singapore to Tanjung Pinang?
Maybe you’re wondering how long a ferry ride to Tanjung Pinang will last. Not to worry, the entire journey from Singapore to Bintan will only take around 1 hr 45 minutes.
How much do Bintan ferry tickets cost?
You don’t have to worry that a ferry ticket to Tanjung Pinang from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal will be too expensive. Considering that Bintan isn’t too far away from Singapore, it means that the tickets will be relatively cheap too. Most ferry operators, including Sindo Ferry, will charge you a similar standard price.
At Sindo Ferry, you can go on a one-way ferry trip from Singapore to Tanjung Pinang for $22. While the price for a return, or two-way trip, is around $44 for an adult ticket (price excludes terminal fees). This is the lowest rate you can find compared to other ferry operators!
Sindo Ferry has also been collaborating with NTUC, which is the largest union in Singapore, to offer you special discounts. So, if you are an NTUC card holder, you can enjoy $5 off an adult round-trip ticket. There are also other promotions on the website. To find out more about the details, please go to the Sindo Ferry website and click on the promotions tab.
Batam, which is even closer from Singapore than Bintan, is also a great destination you might want to visit. From Singapore to one of the three ferry terminals in Batam, an adult one-way ticket is priced at $17 while a return trip will cost you $34.
The best ferry from Singapore to Bintan
One of the most difficult part of planning your trip might be choosing which ferry operator is the best one. We believe there are several factors you should consider before buying a ferry ticket from Singapore to Bintan. Try to go for ferry operators with a long history and impeccable safety records. Not only does this guarantee that they are the most experienced and reliable in the industry, it also means that you can enjoy a peaceful trip without worrying about your safety.
This can also depend on where you are planning to stay in Bintan. If you stay in the northern part of the island, we recommend that you take the Bintan Resort Ferries. They’re well-known for their regular, safe and comfortable services to and from Bandar Bintan Telani Ferry Terminal, Bintan.
However, if you are going to visit the Southern area of Bintan Island, then Sindo Ferry will be your best bet. In addition to over 20 years of experience in the passenger ferry services, Sindo Ferry also regularly offers promotions and discounts so you can go on vacations at an affordable price. They also boast excellent safety records, which means you don’t have to worry too much about travel risks.
Queen Star 5 from Sindo Ferry
How to buy ferry ticket to Tanjung Pinang
There are a few different options you can choose when you buy a ferry ticket to Tanjung Pinang from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. Not all ferry operators will offer you these alternatives, but Sindo Ferry in particular accepts all of these.
1. Online booking
The easiest way to buy your ferry ticket to Tanjung Pinang is definitely through online booking. All you need to do is visit Sindo Ferry website, choose your dates, number of tickets and destination, and you’re all set!
2. Email booking
It is also possible to book tickets through email, so you can save time without having to navigate the website. This is also a straightforward way to get your tickets.
3. WhatsApp
If you don’t have time to scroll through their website and manually input your trip dates, then WhatsApp booking can be helpful! You can even ask questions and travel advice from the person you’re chatting with.
4. Phone booking
Finally, you can also book your tickets by calling Sindo Ferry. This is a great option if the internet is just not for you. All you need to do is speak to an operator, who will take care of the details for you.
What to do in Bintan?
Now that you have decided which ferry to take you from Singapore to Bintan, perhaps you are wondering what you should do once you’re there. We can assure you, there is an endless list of things to do! From sand dunes, secluded lagoons and ghost ship adventures, to mountain treks and ancient temples, there is something for everyone.
In terms of accommodation, Banyan Tree Bintan is a 4-star resort that offers Balinese-style villas, perfect if you’re looking for a luxurious getaway by the oceanside. For independent travellers, Cassia may be the more ideal choice for you. The Cassia Bintan spa has a wide selection of signature treatments for the ultimate indulgent.
Banyan Tree Bintan. Photo: Unsplash
If you want to see more ideas on the must-see attractions and what you can do in Bintan, check out this (link to) Ultimate Guide to Bintan.
So, what are you waiting for? Buy your Bintan ferry tickets now and enjoy an unparalleled vacation in this beautiful island. Happy holiday!
Our ferry operations has been temporarily relocated from Harbourfront Centre to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. We depart everyday to Batam Centre Ferry Terminal. You can still get tickets from Singapore to Batam or Batam to Singapore from our website at www.sindoferry.com.sg
If you wish to travel to Tanjung Pinang, Bintan Island, you may want to consider taking Sindo Ferry to Batam and proceed to take domestic ferry from Batam to Tanjung Pinang.
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