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How to get to Bintan from Singapore: Ferry guide & insider tips

Your complete guide on how to get to Bintan from Singapore. Including ferry terminals, schedules, ticket prices, and local travel tips.

Published: November 5, 2025

Just an hour from Singapore by ferry, Bintan Island is one of the most accessible beach escapes in Indonesia. Whether you’re heading to a luxury resort like Club Med, planning a weekend golf trip, or simply craving sun and sea, getting to Bintan from Singapore is surprisingly simple.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to get to Bintan from Singapore, including ferry routes, travel time, estimated costs, and tips for booking tickets and clearing immigration. 

We’ll also share what to pack, when to go, and how to stay connected with Holafly’s unlimited eSIM for Indonesia once you’re across.

How to get to Bintan from Singapore

How to go to Bintan from Singapore

The Bintan island is best accessed by ferry from Singapore, with multiple departures daily from the east coast. 

The journey is quick, affordable, and ideal for a 4-day-3-night getaway from Singapore. Here’s how to go to Bintan from Singapore:

Main ferry terminals and operators

Your trip to Bintan will begin at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (TMFT), located in eastern Singapore. It’s just a short 15-minute ride from Changi Airport, making it easy to reach by taxi or public transport. 

Most ferries to Bintan depart from here, and the process is straightforward: check in, clear immigration, and board.

When you arrive in Bintan, you’ll land at one of two terminals, depending on your resort:

  • Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT): This is the main terminal for travellers heading to the Lagoi resort area. If you’re staying at popular resorts like The Sanchaya, Nirwana Gardens, Cassia Bintan, or Banyan Tree, this is likely where you’ll arrive. 
  • Bintan Lagoon Terminal: Some private ferries or group transfers may use this terminal, but it’s typically exclusive to Bintan Lagoon Resort guests. Unless your hotel specifically mentions this route, you’ll most likely be arriving at BBT.

The main ferry operator on this route is Bintan Resort Ferries (BRF). Their high-speed catamarans run several times a day and are the most direct and comfortable option for resort-bound travellers. 

Other operators like Sindo Ferry and Majestic Fast Ferry serve the Tanjung Pinang area; useful if you’re exploring southern Bintan, but not ideal for beach resorts.

If you’re heading to Bintan for a quick weekend getaway, BRF via Tanah Merah to BBT is the most convenient route, efficient, well-managed, and designed with Singapore-based travellers in mind.

Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal is the main gateway from Singapore to Bintan. (Source: Shutterstock)

Singapore to Bintan ferry schedule, duration, and ticket prices

Getting to Bintan from Singapore by ferry is quick, efficient, and ideal for short getaways. Ferries depart daily from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal and arrive at Bintan’s Bandar Bentan Telani terminal, serving most major resorts. 

Here is all you need to know about Bintan ferry timings, duration, and how much to budget.

Bintan ferry schedule and travel time

Ferries between Singapore and Bintan typically run between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM, with services spaced throughout the day. The journey takes about 60 to 70 minutes, depending on sea conditions.

But keep in mind: Bintan is one hour behind Singapore (GMT+7 vs. GMT+8), so departure and arrival times differ slightly across time zones.

Here is a sample departure schedule (from Singapore):

Departure (SG time)Arrival (Bintan time)Route
08:10 AM08:35 AMTMFT → BBT
11:10 AM11:35 AMTMFT → BBT
14:00 PM14:35 PMTMFT → BBT
17:00 PM17:35 PMTMFT → BBT

TMFT = Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, BBT = Bandar Bentan Telani

Bintan ferry ticket prices

Ferry fares from Singapore to Bintan vary by operator, class, and travel period. Economy one-way tickets generally start around SGD $45, while premium options are priced higher for added comfort and priority boarding.

Here’s a breakdown of typical fare ranges in Singapore dollars:

OperatorClassApproximate Fare
Bintan Resort FerriesEconomy (Adult, one way)SGD $56
Bintan Resort FerriesEconomy (Round trip, peak)SGD $98
Bintan Resort FerriesEmerald Class (one way)SGD $83
Sindo FerryEconomy (one way)SGD $45 – $53
Majestic Fast FerryEconomy (one way)SGD $55

Booking tips:

  • Prices may differ slightly between platforms, so check both official operator sites and trusted platforms like Klook, Easybook, or Pelago.
  • Child fares are usually available at a discounted rate (typically up to age 11).

Economy class is comfortable enough for most travellers, while Emerald Class with BRF offers lounge access, priority boarding, and wider seating for those seeking a more premium experience.

Getting to Bintan from Singapore by ferry is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the island. (Source: Shutterstock)

How to book your ferry tickets

There are three main ways to book your ferry tickets from Singapore to Bintan:

  • Official websites: Book directly through the Bintan Resort Ferries (BRF) website for the latest schedules, seat selection, and fare options.
  • Travel platforms: You can also use platforms like Klook, Trip.com, or Easybook to compare operators, find promo deals, or bundle with activities.
  • On-site counters: And for those preferring an in-person experience, you can purchase tickets at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, but note that availability might be limited during weekends and holidays.

Booking tip: Reserve round-trip tickets early to secure your ideal departure times, especially during peak travel periods.

Is there a Singapore to Bintan flight?

No, there are no direct flights from Singapore to Bintan. Although the island has a domestic airport (Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport near Tanjung Pinang), it does not receive international flights from Singapore.

The only practical way to travel from Singapore to Bintan is by ferry, which is faster, more affordable, and more convenient than flying via a connecting city like Jakarta or Batam. 

Insider tips for a smooth Bintan trip

Make your journey from Singapore to Bintan easier with these practical travel tips:

  • Immigration and e-Arrival Card: All travellers must complete Indonesia’s e-Arrival Card online before arrival. It replaces the paper arrival form and speeds up immigration clearance.
  • Visa for Singaporeans: No visa is required for stays of up to 30 days. Just ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
  • Currency: The exchange rate is roughly 1 SGD = 11,000–12,000 IDR. Bring cash for small purchases, taxis, and local markets, as card acceptance may be limited outside major resorts.
  • Connectivity: To avoid roaming charges or SIM swaps , use Holafly’s eSIM for Indonesia with unlimited data, instant setup, and 5G speed.
  • Best time to visit: The dry season runs from March to October, offering the best weather for beach activities and ferry travel.
  • Time difference: Bintan is 1 hour behind Singapore. Set your watch to GMT+7 when you arrive.
  • Booking platforms: For ferries and resort packages, reliable sites include Klook, Trip.com, Pelago, and Easybook.
  • Extra tip (if connecting via air): If your trip involves Kertajati Airport, be sure to pre-book your transfer to Bandung, as on-ground transport options are limited.
The best weather for beach activities like volleyball in Bintan is from March to October. (Source: Shutterstock)

What to do in Bintan

Bintan offers a mix of laid-back charm and outdoor fun, perfect for a short escape from Singapore. 

Here are a few ideas to make the most of your stay:

  • Unwind on the beach: Bintan Resorts offers calm, scenic beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing with a good book.
  • Visit Treasure Bay Lagoon: Home to Southeast Asia’s largest man-made seawater lagoon, it’s a hit with families and couples alike.
  • Get active: Try kayaking, jet skiing, or paddleboarding, or book a round at one of Bintan’s scenic golf courses.
  • Treat yourself: Many resorts offer spa packages and wellness treatments ideal for a rejuvenating escape.
Treasure Bay Lagoon is Southeast Asia’s largest man-made seawater lagoon, perfect for families and couples. (Source: Shutterstock)

The best way to travel to Bintan from Singapore

Taking the ferry is the ideal option for a smooth, no-fuss beach getaway, with direct sailings from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to the resort zone at Bandar Bentan Telani.

And to make your trip even more seamless, consider sorting out your mobile internet in Indonesia before you go. With a Holafly Indonesia eSIM, you get unlimited data from the moment you arrive with no roaming fees or SIM swapping. 

Daily plans start from SGD $8, ideal for short holidays, and Monthly eSIM Plans options are available from USD $49.90, perfect for longer stays or digital nomads in Indonesia.

Ready for a quick island break? Book your Singapore–Bintan ferry in advance and stay connected the easy way with Holafly’s travel eSIM.

Disclaimer: The data in this article is accurate as of November 5th, 2025, and is subject to change.

Violet Lee

Violet Lee

SEO Content Specialist

Formerly a travel journalist turned marketing copywriter, I found my way back to the travel world with Holafly—my dream company that made remote work possible. My motto? “Dream big and make it happen.” I’m passionate about writing, exploring the world, and staying active through walking, running, swimming, and hiking. I also love learning, reflecting, and connecting with inspiring minds.

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