Singapore is a fantastic home base, but sometimes you just need to get out. The good news? You don’t need to book a flight or burn through your annual leave to reset. A short getaway from Singapore by ferry puts you on an island with a completely different vibe in as little as 45 minutes, and you can do it over a single weekend.
From resort pools and seafood feasts in Batam to the quiet beaches of Indonesia’s Riau Islands, the options are more varied than most people realize. Some destinations are perfect for couples, others work well for families, and a few are ideal for corporate retreats or team-building trips. The common thread? They’re all reachable by ferry, and they all offer a genuine change of scenery without the airport hassle.
We put this list together based on what we see every day at Batam Ferry Tickets, thousands of travelers booking ferry rides from Singapore to Batam and nearby islands. Below are 10 trip ideas for 2026, covering where to go, what to expect, and how to get there.
1. Batam
Batam is the most popular short getaway from Singapore by ferry, and the numbers back that up. It’s close, affordable, and genuinely different from Singapore in pace and price, which is exactly what most people are looking for when they want a quick break without the effort of a full trip abroad.
Why Batam works for a 1 to 3 days trip
Batam sits 45 minutes from Singapore by fast ferry, which means you can leave after breakfast and be at your hotel well before lunch. The Indonesian rupiah exchange rate works heavily in your favor, so food, spa treatments, and accommodation cost a fraction of what you’d spend for the same things in Singapore. Whether you have one full day or three, the island has enough variety to fill the time without any stress.
Even a single overnight in Batam feels like a genuine reset because the pace and cost of everything shifts the moment you step off the ferry.
Ferry terminals, routes, and typical crossing time
Batam Fast Ferry runs from two Singapore terminals: HarbourFront and Tanah Merah. On the Batam side, you can arrive at Batam Centre, Sekupang, Nongsapura, or Gold Coast, depending on where you’re staying. Crossings take between 45 minutes and just over one hour, with multiple sailings daily from 7:40 AM to 8:30 PM.
| Singapore Terminal | Batam Terminal | Crossing Time |
|---|---|---|
| HarbourFront | Batam Centre | ~60 min |
| HarbourFront | Sekupang | ~55 min |
| Tanah Merah | Nongsapura | ~45 min |
| Tanah Merah | Gold Coast | ~50 min |
What to do on a short Batam itinerary
For a one night stay, a solid plan covers a seafood dinner at Harbour Bay, a full body massage at one of Nagoya’s many spa centers, and a browse through Nagoya Hill or DC Mall for electronics, clothing, and snacks to bring home. Add a second day and you can visit Tering Bay Golf Course, take a scenic drive to Barelang Bridge, or spend a few hours at a resort beach on the eastern side of the island.
Where to stay for a quick and easy base
Batam Centre suits first time visitors best because it puts you within minutes of the ferry terminal and close to the main commercial areas. The Nagoya district is the go-to for budget travelers who want walkable access to restaurants, night markets, and convenience stores. If you want a resort style stay, Turi Beach or Harris Resort both offer that experience without requiring a long drive from the ferry.
What it costs and how to book with Batam Ferry Tickets
One-way ferry tickets from Singapore to Batam typically run between SGD 35 and SGD 50 per person, depending on the route and departure time. You book through Batam Ferry Tickets, pick your terminal, date, and passenger count, and get your e-ticket sent to your email instantly. Book ahead if you’re traveling on a weekend or public holiday since seats on popular morning sailings sell out well in advance.
2. Nongsa, Batam
Nongsa sits on the northeastern tip of Batam, directly facing Singapore across the Strait of Singapore. It draws travelers who want a beach resort experience without the long travel time of Bali or Thailand.
Why Nongsa suits a low effort resort break
Nongsa is built around a cluster of beachfront resorts with private stretches of sand, pools, and on-site dining. You don’t need to plan much beyond the ferry ticket because the resorts handle nearly everything else. It’s the kind of destination where you arrive, check in, and spend the rest of your stay in a swimsuit.
If you want a short getaway from Singapore by ferry that requires zero decisions after arrival, Nongsa is the answer.
Ferry terminals, routes, and typical crossing time
You travel from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore to Nongsapura Ferry Terminal in Batam, which is the closest terminal to Nongsa. The crossing takes around 45 minutes, making it one of the faster routes on the Singapore-Batam network. Most resorts offer shuttle transfers from Nongsapura, so arrange that ahead of your arrival.
What to do beyond the resort
Nongsa has a few golf courses, including Tering Bay, that are popular with Singapore regulars. You can also rent a scooter and explore the quieter coastal roads, or arrange a short boat trip to nearby sandbanks. The nightlife and shopping of Nagoya are roughly 30 to 40 minutes away by car if you want a change of scene for one evening.
Where to stay along Nongsa Coast
Nongsa Point Marina and Resort and Turi Beach Resort are the two most established options in the area. Both sit on private beachfronts and offer water sports, restaurants, and spa services within the property.
What it costs and what to plan ahead
Ferry tickets from Tanah Merah to Nongsapura run around SGD 35 to SGD 45 per person one way. Resort rates vary widely, but a two-person room for one night typically starts around SGD 120 to SGD 200. Book your ferry ticket and resort shuttle together as early as possible, especially for Friday evening departures.
3. Sekupang, Batam
Sekupang sits on the western side of Batam, away from the commercial buzz of Nagoya and Batam Centre. If your idea of a short getaway from Singapore by ferry involves less noise and more recovery time, Sekupang delivers exactly that.
Why Sekupang feels quieter than central Batam
Sekupang has fewer malls and night markets, which means the streets move at a noticeably slower pace than the rest of the island. Most travelers who come here are after spa packages, Indonesian cuisine, and a genuine rest rather than shopping or sightseeing. That narrower focus makes it easier to unwind without feeling like you’re missing out.
Sekupang is the part of Batam where you go specifically to do less, and that’s the whole point.
Ferry terminals, routes, and typical crossing time
You depart from HarbourFront Ferry Terminal in Singapore and arrive directly at Sekupang Ferry Terminal in Batam. The crossing takes roughly 55 minutes, and Batam Fast Ferry runs this route daily with multiple departure times.
What to do in a short stay
Sekupang’s main draw is its spa culture. Reflexology, full-body massages, and traditional Indonesian treatments are all widely available at low prices compared to Singapore. Beyond the spas, you can walk along the Sekupang waterfront, try fresh seafood at the local restaurants, and visit the nearby Muka Kuning area for a low-key afternoon.
Where to stay for easy transport
Several mid-range hotels sit within a short drive of the Sekupang ferry terminal, which keeps your arrival and departure as simple as possible. Look for properties along Jalan Imam Bonjol that offer shuttle services to the terminal.
What it costs and common add-ons
One-way ferry tickets on this route run around SGD 35 to SGD 45 per person. Many travelers add a full-day spa package for under SGD 80, which covers multiple treatments and lunch at the spa.
4. Lagoi, Bintan
Lagoi is the resort hub of Bintan Island, located about 45 kilometers north of Tanjung Pinang. It is home to the Bintan Resorts integrated zone, a dedicated tourism area that runs smoothly for families who want a proper short getaway from Singapore by ferry without the need to navigate an unfamiliar city.
Why Lagoi is the classic “ferry + resort” combo
Lagoi works because everything you need sits within the resort zone. The beach is right there, the activities are on-site or nearby, and the whole area is designed to keep families comfortable. You do not need to rent a car, figure out local transport, or scout food options because the resorts handle all of it.
Lagoi gives families a complete break without any of the logistical effort that usually comes with traveling abroad.
Ferry terminals, routes, and typical crossing time
You depart from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore and arrive at Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal in Lagoi. The crossing takes around 55 minutes, and ferry services run daily with scheduled morning and afternoon slots.
What to do in 24 to 72 hours
Water sports, cycling trails, cooking classes, and golf all sit within easy reach in Lagoi. Kids enjoy the beach and resort pools, while adults can book spa treatments or join a guided mangrove tour. A two-night stay gives you enough time to move between activities without rushing.
Where to stay in the Bintan Resorts area
Nirwana Gardens, Banyan Tree Bintan, and Club Med Bintan are the most established options and cater directly to families with structured activities and children’s programs.
What it costs and peak-date considerations
Return ferry tickets run approximately SGD 70 to SGD 90 per person. Book at least two to three weeks ahead for school holidays and long weekends since both ferry seats and resort rooms fill up quickly.
5. Tanjung Pinang, Bintan
Tanjung Pinang is Bintan’s main city and sits on the southern tip of the island. It draws a different kind of traveler than Lagoi does, specifically those who want local texture, history, and food rather than a manicured resort experience.
Why Tanjung Pinang fits a laid back long weekend
Tanjung Pinang moves at a relaxed pace and rewards travelers who enjoy wandering, eating, and discovering without a rigid itinerary. It has a strong Malay-Chinese heritage that shows up in the shophouse architecture, the temples, and the street food scene. If you want a short getaway from Singapore by ferry that feels genuinely different from where you started, this city delivers that.
Tanjung Pinang is one of the few places near Singapore where the culture and food alone justify the ferry ticket.
Ferry terminals, routes, and typical crossing time
You depart from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore and arrive at Sri Bintan Pura Ferry Terminal in Tanjung Pinang. The crossing takes approximately 90 minutes, which is longer than the Batam routes but still manageable for a weekend trip.
What to do in town and nearby islands
Penyengat Island sits a short boat ride from the main jetty and holds a well-preserved 18th century Malay sultanate palace and mosque that is worth a few hours of exploration. Back in town, the Pelantar II Chinese fishing village built on stilts over the water is a standout visit, and the night market along the waterfront is where you want to be for grilled seafood.
Where to stay for walkability and food access
Stay near the central waterfront area to keep the ferry terminal, restaurants, and main attractions within walking distance. Several clean, affordable hotels cluster in this zone and suit a short stay well.
What it costs and how to get around
Return ferry tickets cost roughly SGD 70 to SGD 100 per person. Inside town, becak (bicycle rickshaws) and ojek (motorcycle taxis) are the easiest ways to move around and cost very little per ride.
6. Karimun Island
Karimun Island sits in the Riau Islands province of Indonesia, roughly 50 kilometers southwest of Singapore. It sees far fewer visitors than Batam or Bintan, which makes it worth considering for a short getaway from Singapore by ferry when you want space and quiet rather than crowds.
Why Karimun feels different from Batam and Bintan
This island has not been developed for mass tourism, and that shows in the best possible way. The pace is slower, the streets carry far less congestion, and the atmosphere feels more like an authentic Indonesian coastal town than a destination built around visitor spending.
If you want a break that doesn’t feel managed or packaged, Karimun delivers that experience more honestly than most nearby islands.
Ferry terminals, routes, and typical crossing time
You depart from HarbourFront Ferry Terminal in Singapore and arrive at Tanjung Balai Karimun Ferry Terminal. The crossing takes approximately 90 to 100 minutes, and ferry services run on scheduled days rather than daily, so confirm the timetable before you book anything.
What to do on a short island break
Karimun suits travelers who enjoy casual coastal walks, local wet markets, and fresh seafood at open-air restaurants. The Coastal Highway running along the island offers scenic water views, and the town center comes alive in the early morning when the wet market is at its busiest.
Where to stay and what amenities to expect
Mid-range hotels cluster near the town center and ferry terminal, keeping your arrivals and departures straightforward. Facilities lean functional rather than resort-style, so air-conditioned rooms and basic on-site restaurants represent the standard offering at most properties.
What it costs and what to bring
Return ferry tickets run approximately SGD 70 to SGD 90 per person. Bring Indonesian rupiah in cash since card acceptance outside hotels is limited, and pack light clothing suited to a warm, humid coastal climate.
7. Desaru Coast, Johor
Desaru Coast sits on the southeastern tip of Johor, Malaysia, and it has developed significantly over the past few years into a proper resort destination. It pulls travelers who want beach access, water attractions, and resort amenities without the longer travel time of getting to Bali or Phuket.
Why Desaru works for couples and families
Desaru covers a wide range of travelers in one destination. Couples get beachfront resorts and golf courses, while families with children have Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, one of the largest waterparks in Southeast Asia, right on their doorstep. The variety of options makes this a reliable short getaway from Singapore by ferry regardless of who you’re traveling with.
Desaru is one of the few nearby destinations that keeps both adults and kids genuinely occupied for a full two-day stay.
Ferry terminals, routes, and typical crossing time
You depart from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore and arrive at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal in Johor. The crossing takes roughly 60 minutes, and the ferry runs daily with scheduled morning and afternoon sailings.
What to do for a one or two night stay
The Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark is the headline activity, but the beach itself is long and uncrowded enough to fill a morning with ease. Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast hosts a smaller aqua park on-site, and the Els Club Desaru Coast offers two championship golf courses for travelers who want to add a round to their itinerary.
Where to stay near Desaru’s main attractions
Hard Rock Hotel, Anantara Desaru Coast Resort, and One&Only Desaru Coast all sit within the resort cluster and offer direct beach access and on-site dining without needing a car.
What it costs and transport options on arrival
Return ferry tickets run approximately SGD 60 to SGD 80 per person. Most resorts provide shuttle transfers from the ferry terminal, so confirm that service when you book your accommodation.
8. Lazarus Island and St John’s Island for a day trip
Singapore’s Southern Islands sit just a short boat ride from the city and offer one of the most accessible short getaway from Singapore by ferry options on this list. You don’t need to clear immigration, exchange currency, or pack a bag for multiple nights.
Why the Southern Islands are the fastest getaway
Lazarus Island and St John’s Island require almost no planning compared to any destination on this list. You leave from the city, spend a few hours on calm beaches with clear water, and return the same afternoon. That simplicity is the whole appeal, especially when you want a break but only have one free day.
For a no-fuss reset without leaving Singapore’s waters, Lazarus Island is the easiest answer on this list.
Ferry terminals, routes, and typical crossing time
You depart from Marina South Pier in Singapore and the ferry stops at both St John’s Island and Lazarus Island. The crossing to St John’s Island takes roughly 30 minutes, with Lazarus Island accessible via a short footbridge from there. Ferries run on a scheduled timetable, so check the times before you head out.
What to do with a half day or full day plan
Lazarus Island has a quiet beach on its western side that suits swimming, picnicking, and reading without crowds. St John’s Island offers walking trails, open lawns, and historical lagoons that take a couple of hours to explore at a relaxed pace.
What to pack for a comfortable visit
Bring sunscreen, food, and plenty of water since there are no shops or restaurants on Lazarus Island. St John’s has basic facilities, but keeping a packed cooler bag ensures you stay comfortable throughout the day.
What it costs and what to watch for
Ferry tickets cost around SGD 18 return per adult. Watch the last ferry departure time carefully since missing it leaves you with no way back until the following morning.
9. Kusu Island
Kusu Island sits about 5.6 kilometers south of Singapore and draws a fraction of the visitors that other nearby islands see. That low foot traffic and minimal development make it one of the most honest options on this list for anyone who wants a short getaway from Singapore by ferry without noise, crowds, or a packed itinerary.
Why Kusu suits a calm, short outing
Kusu is small, deliberately undeveloped, and easy to cover in a few hours. The island covers roughly 8.5 hectares, and the absence of retail, restaurants, and organized activities is precisely the point. You come here to slow down rather than check things off a list.
The island draws two very distinct types of visitors: those who come for the cultural landmarks and those who just want to sit near calm water for a few hours. Both groups leave satisfied.
Ferry terminals, routes, and typical crossing time
You depart from Marina South Pier in Singapore and reach Kusu Island in roughly 30 minutes. Ferries run on a scheduled timetable with limited daily sailings, so confirm the departure and return times before you finalize your day.
What to do on the island
Kusu has a Taoist temple and a Malay keramat shrine perched on a small hilltop, both worth a short visit. The sheltered lagoon on the southern side is calm and suitable for a swim, and the walking path from the jetty to the shrines takes about 20 minutes at an easy pace.
Kusu rewards visitors who arrive without a plan and leave simply feeling more rested than when they got there.
What facilities are available and what to pack
The island has basic toilets and shaded seating areas near the jetty but no food stalls or shops. Pack your own water, snacks, and sunscreen since nothing is available for purchase once you step off the ferry.
What it costs and timing tips
Return ferry tickets cost around SGD 18 per adult. Avoid the ninth month of the lunar calendar when Kusu attracts large pilgrim crowds and the quiet atmosphere disappears entirely.
10. Pulau Ubin
Pulau Ubin sits off Singapore’s northeastern coast and feels nothing like the city you left behind. The island still runs on kampung life, with unpaved paths, wild vegetation, and almost no commercial development to speak of. It is a genuine contrast to the Singapore skyline visible from its shores.
Why Pulau Ubin feels like a different Singapore
Pulau Ubin has resisted the kind of development that transformed most of Singapore over the past 50 years. Wooden houses, free-roaming wildlife, and granite quarry lakes sit alongside each other across the island’s interior. For a short getaway from Singapore by ferry that costs almost nothing and delivers a completely different atmosphere, Ubin has no real competition this close to the city.
Pulau Ubin gives you a genuine sense of what Singapore looked like before the skyline took over, and it sits less than 10 minutes away by boat.
Ferry terminals, routes, and typical crossing time
You board a bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal and arrive at Pulau Ubin jetty in roughly 10 minutes. Boats depart when they have 12 passengers, so there are no fixed schedules to manage. The service runs daily from early morning until late evening.
What to do if you only have a few hours
Rent a bicycle from the shops near the jetty for a few Singapore dollars and follow the trails toward Chek Jawa Wetlands, where boardwalks run over mangroves and coastal flats rich with birdlife. A steady cycling loop around the main trail takes about two to three hours at a comfortable pace.
Where to eat and take breaks
Several seafood restaurants cluster near the main jetty and serve fresh prawns, fish, and crab at prices well below what you’d pay on the mainland. Pack extra water since options inland are limited once you move beyond the jetty area.
What it costs and safety basics
Bumboat tickets cost SGD 4 per person each way, making Ubin the most affordable option on this list. Stick to marked trails only since the island has uneven terrain and some quarry areas carry real hazards for anyone who wanders off the established paths.
Your next ferry break
The ten destinations above cover nearly every type of short getaway from Singapore by ferry, from a budget overnight in Batam to a full resort weekend in Bintan and a quiet afternoon cycling around Pulau Ubin. Each one sits within a manageable travel window, and none of them require a flight or a full week of annual leave to feel worthwhile.
Picking the right trip comes down to what you actually want from the break. If you need total rest, head to Nongsa or Lagoi. If you want food, culture, and movement, Tanjung Pinang or Batam Centre deliver that without much planning. If you only have one free day, the Southern Islands and Pulau Ubin both work.
Your next step is simple. Check the available routes and departure times, pick your terminal, and lock in your seats before the weekend sailings fill up. Book your Batam ferry tickets online and get your e-ticket confirmed instantly by email.
