Besides JB, Batam has long been our go-to for quick getaways. Now, getting there has become even more fuss-free, thanks to a new ferry route to Batam that has just launched, which drops you much closer to popular attractions around the island. And that’s a big deal, because most of us only have the weekend to spare for a short trip. Every minute saved on travelling is extra time to lounge by the pool or snap IG-worthy photos at a cafe.
Image credit: Digo Oketta via Google Maps
The new route is run by 2 well-known ferry operators, Sindo Ferry and Batamfast, and brings passengers from Harbourfront Centre in Singapore to the Gold Coast International Ferry Terminal in Bengkong, situated in northern Batam. It’s a great alternative if you’d rather skip the usual crowds at Batam Centre Point International Ferry Terminal.
Bonus: Bengkong is closer to beach clubs and other fun spots like Mega Wisata Ocarina Batam, an amusement park, and Batam Zoo Paradise. To give you a sense of the convenience, it’s just a 5-minute drive to Infinity Beach Club from Gold Coast International Ferry Terminal – compared to 17 minutes if you were coming from Batam Centre Point International Ferry Terminal.
Both operators run 2 round-trips a day, with morning, afternoon, and evening slots to fit around your travel plans.
Batamfast departs HarbourFront Centre at 7.55am and 6.25pm. Return trips from Gold Coast International Ferry Terminal depart at 1pm and 7pm.
Meanwhile, Sindo Ferry departs HarbourFront Centre at 9.35am and 1pm, and returns from Gold Coast International Ferry Terminal at 10.30am and 3.30pm.
The new route utilises high-speed vessels that’ll get you to your destination in approximately 1 hour. Each ferry can also carry between 200 and 300 passengers, so snagging tickets shouldn’t be too difficult.
Image credit: Sindo Ferry
A return trip costs $76/pax in Economy class – the same price you’d pay for a round-trip to Batam Centre.
Book ferry tickets on Batamfast or Sindo Ferry.
This new ferry route lets you skip the crowds, land closer to the fun, and still pay the same price as a trip to Batam Centre. But before you head off, remember to settle the essentials – download the All Indonesia app and fill in the mandatory travel declaration form so your trip goes smoothly from the moment you step off the ferry.
Things to do in Batam:
Cover image adapted from: Sindo Ferry, Digo Oketta via Google Maps
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