On Singapore’s east coast, close to Changi, Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal is the starting point for short ferry trips to Bintan, Batam and Desaru. It is smaller than HarbourFront, but that is part of the appeal: the layout is simple, the routes are focused, and most travellers use it for quick resort or weekend getaways.
The terminal was upgraded and reopened in March 2025 with a S$20 million investment and now offers more immigration lanes, self-service check-in kiosks, and automated bag-drop counters to speed up the process. Despite the enhancements, it remains an international ferry terminal, so it is still advisable to book early and arrive early, as you would for any overseas travel.
Where you can go: the three main routes
| Route | Lands At | Approx. Crossing Time | Best For |
| Bintan, Indonesia | Bandar Bentan Telani | Around 1 hour | Resorts and short breaks |
| Batam, Indonesia | Nongsa / selected Batam ports | Around 50–70 minutes | Resorts, golf and quieter Batam stays |
| Desaru Coast, Malaysia | Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal | Around 90 minutes | Beach resorts without the land-border drive |
Bintan (Bandar Bentan Telani) is the busiest route, with frequent sailings and a crossing of about an hour. Most resorts run their own shuttle from the jetty, so you rarely need to arrange onward transport yourself.
Batam (Nongsa) is a quieter alternative to the busier Batam Centre crossings, handy if you’re staying on that side of the island.
Desaru Coast is the newest link, launched in 2022. It connects straight to Desaru’s beach-resort strip and skips the long drive around the land border entirely.
Booking and check-in
Book online, not at the counter. Walk-up seats aren’t guaranteed, especially on weekend Bintan sailings. Always book a ferry ticket beforehand to lock in the departure you want, which in turn saves you from turning up to find the next boat is hours away.
Arrive at least 60 minutes early. Check-in for international sailings closes a full hour before departure. Immigration takes longer than people expect at busy times, so treat that cut-off as firm, not flexible.
Getting to the terminal
By MRT and bus: Take the MRT to Tanah Merah or Bedok, then change to Bus 35, which stops at the terminal. This is a convenient and inexpensive option, as you don’t have to book a taxi in advance.
Address: 50 Tanah Merah Ferry Road, Singapore 498833. By public transport: Take the MRT to Tanah Merah or Bedok and change to SBS Bus 35 to the ferry terminal. The terminal bus stop is 96219.
By car: There is on-site parking, but currently the rate is S$1.80 per hour or part thereof, capped at S$33.76 per 24-hour period. For a longer stay, a taxi or hire-car to the terminal can work out more economical than a 24-hour parking fee.
At the terminal before you board
Once you’ve checked in, there’s usually a little downtime before boarding – enough for a coffee and a quick look around.
Near the entrance, you’ll find Subway, Luckin Coffee, Lepak Corner, Woon’s by Killiney, duty-free shopping, money exchange, DBS ATM and 7-Eleven. It’s not a place to fill an afternoon, but it’s fine for the short wait before a crossing.
Premium lounge access depends on your ferry operator and ticket class. For example, some Bintan resort ferry tickets include priority boarding or lounge access.
Frequently asked questions
Which MRT station is best for Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal?
Tanah Merah MRT and Bedok MRT both connect to Bus 35, which goes to the terminal.
Can I use self-service check-in at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal?
Yes, if your operator supports it and your documents and baggage meet the kiosk rules.
Does Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal provide services to Batam Centre?
Some departures do, but it depends on the company and day of travel. Always confirm which port of call you are arriving at before booking tickets.
How early should I arrive at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal?
You should arrive at least one hour before any international sailing as check-in closes 60 minutes before departure.
Is Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal accessible for wheelchairs?
The terminal has standard step-free access; however, for specific requirements, check directly with the terminal or the relevant ferry operator in advance.
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