Taking Singapore to Desaru Ferry? Here’s What to Know

Traveloka Team
14 Mar 2025 - 3 min read

Craving a quick escape from the city? Desaru’s stunning beaches and chill vibes are just a ferry ride away! The Singapore to Desaru ferry is the easiest way to get there, and we’ve got you covered with all the details—schedule, ticket prices, booking hacks, and immigration tips.

Let’s get started!

Singapore to Desaru Ferry Schedule

Before we dive in, how far is Desaru from Singapore? Not too far, actually! Straight-line distance? Around 25 kilometres. But don’t let that fool you. By land, the journey can stretch over 100 kilometres via Johor Bahru. The ferry is a game-changer, skipping the long drive for a breezy sea route.

The ferry is your express ticket to paradise, and right now, Desaru Link is the one and only operator running this route. This exclusive service launched in 2022, finally giving travellers a direct sea link from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal in Malaysia.

Here’s when you need to be at the terminal:

Route

Departure Time

Tanah Merah - Desaru Coast

10:10 AM

Desaru Coast - Tanah Merah

05:30 PM (05:15 PM during Ramadan)

The ride takes about 90 minutes, so sit back, enjoy the sea breeze, and maybe even catch a quick nap (just don’t snore too loudly). But don’t leave things to chance—ferry schedules can shift due to demand or weather, so always check ahead and book in advance unless you love last-minute chaos!

Singapore to Desaru Ferry Cost

Alright, let’s talk numbers. How much does it cost to sail across the sea? The Singapore to Desaru ferry price isn’t exactly pocket change, but it’s way more convenient than a long road trip.

Here’s the breakdown:

Route

Ticket Type

Adult

Child

Desaru Coast - Tanah Merah

One-way

S$50

S$50

Tanah Merah - Desaru Coast

S$50

S$50

Desaru Coast - Tanah Merah

Return

S$50

$50

Tanah Merah - Desaru Coast

$68

$48

Public Holiday / Peak Surcharge

One-way

$20

Return

$40

Oh, and if you’re bringing more than just a carry-on, take note! Travelling from Desaru Coast to Tanah Merah? Oversized gear like bicycles, golf bags, and surfboards aren’t free riders. They come with extra fees.

You’ll need to pay in cash at Desaru Coast before check-in: S$9 per item for odd-sized baggage, while regular luggage gets charged S$1 per kg.

Immigration and Customs Guide You Need to Know

Singapore to Desaru ferry travel time is just 90 minutes, but smooth sailing through immigration starts with knowing the rules—because getting stuck at border control is not the kind of adventure you want.

1. Passport and Visas

First thing first—your passport. It must be valid for at least six months from your travel date. If it’s expiring soon, get it renewed, or Desaru will have to wait! As for visas, most nationalities get visa-free entry to Malaysia, but some travellers might need one. Double-check your visa requirements before booking your trip.

2. Arrival Cards

Both Singapore and Malaysia require pre-arrival forms:

Singapore Arrival Card: Submit online before entering Singapore.
Malaysia Digital Arrival Card: Fill this out within three days before arriving in Malaysia.

How long does immigration take? Pretty fast! The Desaru CIQ Complex can clear up to 300 passengers at once, so you’ll be through in no time.

Tips for Booking Your Ferry

So, you’re ready to lock in your Singapore to Desaru ferry ticket. But before you do, here are some smart booking hacks to keep things smooth sailing.

1. Book Online for Convenience

The easiest way to get your ticket is through Desaru Link’s official website. This lets you secure your spot in advance without the stress of last-minute queues at the terminal.

2. Check the Schedule Before Booking

The ferry only operates once a day in each direction, so if you miss it, you’re stuck. Make sure your ticket matches your travel plans, especially if you’re connecting from a flight or another trip.

3. Check Your Email After Booking

Once you’ve booked online, confirm you’ve received the e-ticket. If it doesn’t appear in your inbox, check your spam folder or contact Desaru Link to sort it out before travelling.

4. Print or Screenshot Your Ticket

After booking, you’ll receive an e-ticket. Take a screenshot or print it out in case your phone dies or the internet decides to betray you at the terminal.

5. Know the Baggage Rules

Got a golf bag, bicycle, or a suitcase that could double as a wardrobe? Desaru Coast charges extra for oversized luggage and additional weight. Bring cash if you need to pay these fees.

6. Arrive Early

Check-in closes 30 minutes before departure, so don’t stroll in at the last minute. Aim to arrive at least an hour before to clear immigration and grab a coffee before setting sail.

7. Double-Check Your Travel Docs

You’ll be crossing international waters, so make sure your passport is valid for at least six months. Some travellers overlook this and get turned away at check-in!

8. Set a Reminder for Departure Time

Since there’s only one ferry per day in each direction, missing it isn’t an option unless you want an unexpected stay in Tanah Merah or Desaru. Set a reminder on your phone an hour before check-in.

9. Be Flexible with Your Dates

If your travel schedule isn’t strict, consider adjusting your trip to avoid peak days (weekends, holidays) when prices are higher, and tickets sell out fast.

10. Check for Schedule Changes

Ferry times might change due to weather or operational reasons. A quick check on Desaru Linkt’s website a day before your trip can save you from surprises.

In a nutshell, taking the ferry from Singapore to Desaru is hands down the most convenient way to reach this tropical paradise: no long drives, no stress, just smooth sailing straight to the coast. Whether you’re heading for a beach getaway or a golf retreat, planning ahead is key.

To make your Singapore to Desaru ferry trip even easier, book your transport, accommodation, and activities via Traveloka—your go-to platform for seamless travel planning. Check the latest schedules, secure your bookings early, and get ready for a fuss-free escape to Desaru!

In This Article

• Singapore to Desaru Ferry Schedule
• Singapore to Desaru Ferry Cost
• Immigration and Customs Guide You Need to Know
• 1. Passport and Visas
• 2. Arrival Cards
• Tips for Booking Your Ferry
• 1. Book Online for Convenience
• 2. Check the Schedule Before Booking
• 3. Check Your Email After Booking
• 4. Print or Screenshot Your Ticket
• 5. Know the Baggage Rules
• 6. Arrive Early
• 7. Double-Check Your Travel Docs
• 8. Set a Reminder for Departure Time
• 9. Be Flexible with Your Dates
• 10. Check for Schedule Changes
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