How to Travel from Singapore to Batam (FAQ)
How to Travel from Singapore to Batam (FAQ)
How to Travel from Singapore to Batam (FAQ) — take a direct high-speed ferry from HarbourFront (or sometimes Tanah Merah) to Batam Centre, Harbour Bay, Sekupang or Nongsa; crossings take roughly 45–75 minutes, ferries run frequently during the day, and Singapore passport holders can enter Indonesia visa-free for short tourist stays (check passport validity).
Quick facts at a glance
- Typical crossing time: ~45–75 minutes depending on route (HarbourFront ↔ Batam Centre ~60–75 min; HarbourFront ↔ HarbourBay or Sekupang slightly faster on some services).
- Main Singapore ports: HarbourFront Centre (most Batam ferries) and sometimes Tanah Merah (select sailings).
- Common operators: Batam Fast (BatamFast), Sindo Ferry, Majestic Fast Ferry and others — each serves different Batam terminals and schedules.
- Visa: Singapore passport holders generally get visa-free entry to Indonesia for up to 30 days for tourism (cannot be extended). Passport should have at least 6 months validity. Check official sources before travel.
- Typical one-way fare from Singapore to Batam: expect roughly S$25–S$45 for standard public ferry tickets (varies by operator, route and timing); package deals often bundle ferry + hotel.
Which ferry terminal should I use?
- HarbourFront Centre (HarbourFront Ferry Terminal) — the busiest gateway for Batam. Most operators and frequent departures.
- Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal — fewer Batam sailings; more commonly used for Bintan and some specific Batam runs. Check operator route before you book.
Step-by-step: How to travel from Singapore to Batam
- Book ferry tickets — buy online (operator website or trusted reseller) to secure time and seat. Popular slots fill up on weekends and public holidays.
- Arrive early — arrive 45–60 minutes before departure for check-in, luggage handling and immigration (peak times may need more time).
- Check-in and Singapore exit immigration — show ticket and passport at the terminal counter; you will clear Singapore immigration before boarding.
- Onboard — ferry staff will announce safety procedures; crossings usually have comfortable seating and restrooms.
- Indonesia arrival immigration & customs — disembark and queue for Indonesian immigration. Keep passport, arrival card (if required) and return/onward ticket handy. Singapore passport holders usually enter visa-free for tourism (30 days).
- Collect luggage and exit to meet transfers — taxis, ride-hailing, hotel pickups or pre-booked transfers are available outside the terminal.
Ferry schedule, frequency & booking tips
Ferries run multiple times daily; frequency depends on route and operator. HarbourFront → Batam Centre/Harbour Bay typically has the most departures (early morning to evening). Schedules change by season or operator—always reconfirm on the operator’s website the day before travel.
- Best practice: book return tickets for weekends and public holidays.
- Cheapest fares: book mid-week and non-peak slots; discount promo bundles often available for ferry+hotel or tours.
- Ticket class: standard economy, priority and private cabin options may be available on some boats—choose based on comfort needs and budget.
Immigration & entry requirements (short summary)
- Visa: Singapore passport holders — visa exemption for tourism up to 30 days (non-extendable). If you need a Visa on Arrival or longer stay, check Indonesian immigration for the correct visa.
- Passport: carry a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival; ensure you have at least two blank pages.
- Return/Onward ticket: immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel—carry a printed or digital copy.
- Health/Declarations: requirements change—check for any local health declaration forms or digital cards before travel.
Estimated costs (Singapore-based traveller)
- Ferry one-way (public ferry): S$25–S$45 (varies by operator & route)
- Taxi / Grab to HarbourFront: S$6–S$15 depending on starting point
- Terminal processing / ferry tax: sometimes included in ticket; otherwise small terminal fees may apply on arrival/departure
- Hotel (Batam): from budget S$30/night to luxury S$300+ for villa/resort—packages often include ferry. Consider these package options:
Batam | Montigo Resort + Ferry! Asia's Top 5-Star Resort with Private Infinity Pool
Batam | Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay + Ferry - Excellent Location & Value For Money
Batam | 1 Day City Tour + Ferry at Only S$99!
Batam | Batam View Beach Resort + Ferry
3 easy itineraries (for busy Singapore travellers)
1) 1-day express: City + Massage (best for first-timers)
- Depart Singapore early morning (07:30–09:00)
- Arrive Batam Centre — take a quick city tour (local markets, seafood lunch)
- Afternoon massage or spa
- Return on evening ferry (book a 17:00–19:00 return)
- Ideal package: Batam | 1 Day City Tour + Ferry at Only S$99!
2) Weekend resort break: 2D1N (relax + food)
- Friday late afternoon ferry, overnight at resort, Saturday island or watersports, Sunday morning ferry home.
- Consider Montigo or Swiss-Belhotel packages if you prefer resort comfort with ferry included. Montigo Resort + Ferry, Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay + Ferry.
3) Budget adventure: 2D1N city + island hopping
- Stay in a budget hotel in Nagoya, explore nightlife and seafood markets, day 2 go to nearby islands or Barelang bridge sightseeing.
Practical travel tips & safety
- Carry small Indonesian rupiah (IDR) for markets and taxis — some places accept cards but cash is useful.
- Download Grab (or local taxi apps) and map apps; ask hotel for reliable driver contacts if unsure.
- Bring photocopy/photo of passport and keep it separate from the original while sightseeing.
- Keep your ferry ticket and passport accessible during boarding and immigration.
- Peak times: Friday evenings, Sundays and Singapore public holidays — book early.
- Weather: sea conditions may affect crossings. In rough seas ferries may be delayed or cancelled — check operator notices.
Common FAQs
Q: How long does the ferry take from Singapore to Batam?
Most crossings are between 45 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes depending on the specific route and operator. HarbourFront ↔ Batam Centre usually takes about 60–75 minutes; HarbourFront ↔ HarbourBay or Sekupang can be under an hour on faster services.
Q: Do Singaporeans need a visa to visit Batam?
Singapore passport holders may enter Indonesia visa-free for tourism for up to 30 days (this is the standard visa exemption—confirm before travel). Your passport should have at least 6 months validity. If you plan to stay longer, arrange the appropriate visa before travel.
Q: Can I use SG dollars in Batam?
Some tourism spots accept SGD but the local currency (IDR) is widely used and usually gives better value. Bring small IDR cash for local markets and transport.
Q: What if my ferry is cancelled?
Operators will usually offer rebooking or refunds. Keep contact details and proof of booking. If you’ve booked a package that includes ferry + hotel, contact the package operator for support.
Q: Which terminal in Batam should I arrive at?
It depends on your hotel or itinerary—Batam Centre is central for city activities, Harbour Bay/Nagoya are near shopping and nightlife, Sekupang/Nongsa are closer to some resorts and island tours. Check your hotel transfer options before booking.
Useful related guides
- [2023] Start Planning to Batam!
- 7 Best Thing To Do in Batam
- A Romantic Weekend in Batam: What We Did and Where We Stayed
- Batam Tour Packages 2025: Ferry + Hotel Deals
If you need a ready-made package
Packages that include ferry + hotel or tours reduce hassle — ideal for short trips. Here are popular picks you can book quickly:
- Batam | Montigo Resort + Ferry! Asia's Top 5-Star Resort with Private Infinity Pool — great for luxury and privacy.
- Batam | Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay + Ferry — excellent location near Harbour Bay.
- Batam | 1 Day City Tour + Ferry at Only S$99! — best for tight schedules and first-timers.
- Batam | Batam View Beach Resort + Ferry — good mid-range resort stay.
If you’re comparing DIY vs package: DIY can be cheaper if you book early and manage transfers; packages save time, include transfers and often add perks like breakfast or tours.
Final checklist before you go
- Passport valid ≥ 6 months and 2 blank pages.
- Return/onward ticket and accommodation booking confirmation.
- Printed or mobile ferry tickets and operator contact details.
- Small amount of IDR for taxis/food and cards for larger payments.
- Travel insurance (recommended) and emergency contact numbers.
Ready to go? 👉 Check our latest Batam packages and WhatsApp us to book now.
