Quick Answer: Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry

For travellers who are searching specifically for a Singapore to Desaru ferry, here are the essential details before you book.

Important: Ferry schedules, fares and availability can change. Always check the live sailing for your selected date before travelling.

What Is the Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry?

The Tanah Merah to Desaru ferry is a direct passenger ferry service linking Singapore with Desaru Coast in Johor, Malaysia.

The ferry departs from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore and arrives at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal. This means travellers staying at Desaru Coast resorts can arrive directly in the destination area without first travelling through Johor Bahru.

Desaru Coast is a major coastal leisure destination on the east coast of Johor. The development combines beaches, resorts, water activities, golf, dining and family attractions across a large coastal area.

Desaru Coast's official visitor information confirms that the ferry provides direct sea access from Singapore's Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal and that the service is operated by BatamFast. The destination currently lists ferry services from Thursday through Monday, with additional services possible during festive periods and long weekends.

The route is therefore particularly relevant to travellers searching for:

• Singapore to Desaru ferry
• Tanah Merah to Desaru ferry
• Desaru ferry from Singapore
• Desaru Coast ferry tickets
• Desaru ferry schedule
• BatamFast Desaru ferry
• Desaru weekend getaway
• Singapore to Desaru weekend trip

Why Take the Ferry to Desaru?

There are two main ways to travel from Singapore to Desaru: by road or by ferry.

The road journey requires travelling north through Malaysia and continuing towards Desaru. The ferry provides a different experience by taking passengers directly across the water.

The biggest attraction of the ferry is that it connects Tanah Merah directly with Desaru Coast.

This can be particularly useful when your destination is one of the resorts around Desaru Coast.

A ferry trip also changes the character of the journey. Instead of spending the entire transfer on roads, you spend approximately 90 minutes travelling by sea before arriving at the destination ferry terminal.

For a weekend resort holiday, the direct route can make the trip easier to plan because the arrival terminal is already within the Desaru Coast development.

Desaru Coast's official information describes the destination as a coastal leisure and holiday area with resorts, beaches, outdoor experiences, dining, wellness and sporting activities.

Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry Schedule

The Tanah Merah to Desaru ferry schedule is one of the most important things to check before booking your hotel.

The current BatamFast schedule, effective from 17 September 2026, lists the direct Desaru Coast service as follows:

The current schedule lists the service on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Tuesday and Wednesday are not included in the regular published schedule.

Festive periods, long weekends and special events can have additional sailings, so travellers should always check the live schedule for their selected travel date.

Does the Desaru Ferry Run Every Day?

No. The currently published regular BatamFast timetable does not operate the Tanah Merah to Desaru service every day.

The current schedule operates on five days of the week:

• Thursday
• Friday
• Saturday
• Sunday
• Monday

This makes the service particularly useful for long weekends and short holidays, but travellers planning a Tuesday or Wednesday departure should check whether a special sailing is available.

How Long Is the Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry?

The Tanah Merah to Desaru ferry duration is approximately 90 minutes.

The current HolidaySG route displays the crossing as approximately 90 minutes, with the currently available sailing showing departure at 10:10am and arrival at around 11:40am.

Although 90 minutes is the scheduled sea-crossing duration, your total travel time will be longer because international ferry travel also involves terminal check-in and immigration.

Your complete journey includes:

1. Travelling to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.
2. Ferry check-in.
3. Luggage check-in if applicable.
4. Singapore departure immigration.
5. Waiting at the boarding area.
6. Boarding the ferry.
7. Approximately 90 minutes on the ferry.
8. Arrival at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal.
9. Malaysian immigration.
10. Transfer to your hotel or attraction.

For that reason, do not plan your Singapore departure based only on the 90-minute crossing time.

How Much Is the Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry?

The current HolidaySG booking page displays the Tanah Merah to Desaru ferry price from S$70 per passenger for a one-way ticket.

The current displayed fare breakdown is:

The current BatamFast published fare page also lists S$70 for a one-way Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal ticket and states that its published prices include the listed ticket fare, surcharge and passenger departure fees.

However, ferry pricing can be updated by the operator and terminal authorities. Some operator information also separately references fuel-surcharge arrangements. Because of these differences between published fare displays, check the final amount shown at checkout for your selected sailing.

Are Children Charged for the Desaru Ferry?

The current HolidaySG route page displays the same S$70 fare for adults and children aged 1–11 for the route, while infants under 1 year are shown as travelling free.

Fare rules can change, so the booking page for your exact date should be treated as the final reference before payment.

How Does the Ferry Fit a Weekend Trip?

For travellers planning a short Desaru holiday, the ferry can fit naturally into a weekend schedule.

For example, the current morning sailing allows passengers to leave Tanah Merah at 10:10am and reach Desaru Coast around 11:40am. After immigration and the short transfer to your hotel, you can still have lunch and spend the afternoon at the beach, waterpark or resort.

For the return journey, the current published sailing leaves Desaru Coast at 5:30pm and reaches Tanah Merah at approximately 7:00pm.

This makes a two-night stay particularly comfortable because you can arrive around lunchtime on the first day and still have a full second day before returning to Singapore.

How to Book a Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry

When searching online, you may find the route listed under several different names.

Look for:

• Tanah Merah to Desaru
• Tanah Merah to Desaru Coast
• Singapore to Desaru ferry
• Desaru ferry from Singapore
• BatamFast Desaru ferry

The destination on the ferry booking should be Desaru Coast.

Before completing your booking, check the following:

• Travel date
• Departure time
• Passenger names
• Passport details if required
• Number of adults and children
• One-way or return ticket
• Luggage requirements
• Cancellation conditions
• Terminal fees and surcharges
• Final booking total

Check Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry Tickets

What Time Should You Arrive at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal?

International ferry passengers should arrive well before the scheduled departure.

The current HolidaySG boarding guidance recommends arriving at the terminal around 90 minutes before departure, with check-in at the counter around 60 minutes before departure and Singapore immigration before boarding.

For the current 10:10am departure, a practical planning target is to reach the terminal around 8:40am.

This gives you time to:

• Find the correct check-in counter.
• Present your passport and booking confirmation.
• Check in luggage if required.
• Clear Singapore departure immigration.
• Reach the boarding gate without rushing.

The current HolidaySG guidance states that the check-in counters close before departure and late boarding is not permitted, so arriving early is particularly important.

How to Get to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal

Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal is located in eastern Singapore, making it convenient for travellers from Changi Airport and the eastern side of Singapore.

From Changi Airport

If you are arriving at Changi Airport before your ferry, allow enough time for baggage collection, airport procedures and the journey to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.

Do not book a ferry immediately after your flight lands. International flights can be delayed and airport procedures can take longer than expected.

By MRT and Bus

Travellers using public transport can travel towards Tanah Merah MRT Station and continue to the ferry terminal by bus or another local connection.

HolidaySG's current terminal instructions reference Bus 35 from Tanah Merah MRT Station for the final connection to the ferry terminal.

By Taxi or Private Hire

A taxi or private-hire vehicle can be the simplest option if you are travelling with several passengers or large pieces of luggage.

Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry: Step-by-Step Journey

Step 1: Reach Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal

Arrive early and locate the BatamFast check-in counter.

Step 2: Check In

Present your ferry booking confirmation and passport. If you have checked luggage, follow the operator's luggage procedure.

Step 3: Clear Singapore Immigration

Complete Singapore departure immigration and proceed to the boarding area.

Step 4: Board the Ferry

Follow the terminal announcements and boarding instructions.

Step 5: Enjoy the Sea Journey

The crossing to Desaru Coast takes approximately 90 minutes.

Step 6: Arrive at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal

Disembark at the ferry terminal within the Desaru Coast development.

Step 7: Malaysian Immigration

Complete Malaysia's immigration procedures before leaving the terminal.

Step 8: Continue to Your Resort or Attraction

Desaru Coast provides local shuttle connections around the main resort area, while taxis, private transfers and ride-hailing can be used for destinations outside the immediate resort zone.

Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal

The Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal is located within the Desaru Coast integrated resort development in Johor.

Its location is one of the major advantages of choosing the ferry when your holiday is centred around Desaru Coast.

Desaru Coast's official visitor information highlights the ferry terminal as a gateway to the wider destination and states that the area has shuttle connectivity for visitors.

After completing immigration, travellers can continue towards their hotel, waterpark, golf facilities or other activities within the resort area.

How Far Is Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal From the Resorts?

The main Desaru Coast resorts are located close to the ferry terminal.

This makes the ferry particularly convenient for travellers staying at hotels such as:

• Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast
• The Westin Desaru Coast Resort
• Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas
• Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast

Travel time depends on the exact resort and traffic conditions, but the main resort cluster is designed around convenient internal transportation.

Desaru Coast Shuttle Bus

One of the practical features of staying at Desaru Coast is its internal shuttle network.

Desaru Coast's official visitor information describes the Desaru Coast Shuttle Bus as a way for visitors to move around the destination.

Shuttle services are particularly useful for travellers arriving without a private vehicle.

Depending on the latest operating schedule, shuttle connections can help travellers reach resorts, attractions and other facilities within the destination.

Check the latest shuttle timetable with your hotel or Desaru Coast concierge because routes and operating times may change.

Best Hotels at Desaru Coast

Desaru Coast has a collection of international resort brands, making it possible to plan anything from a family holiday to a luxury weekend.

Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast

Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast is designed around Hard Rock's music-focused identity and is located within the Desaru Coast development.

The hotel is particularly relevant to travellers combining their ferry trip with Adventure Waterpark, as the waterpark is located within the same broader resort destination.

It can be a convenient choice for families and travellers who want access to entertainment, dining and activities.

The Westin Desaru Coast Resort

The Westin Desaru Coast Resort focuses heavily on wellness and resort relaxation.

The property is positioned near the beach and other Desaru Coast attractions, making it suitable for travellers who want to combine a beach holiday with wellness facilities and resort dining.

Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas

Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas offers resort accommodation including villa options.

Anantara's official information states that the resort is only a short drive from Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal.

The resort can therefore be particularly convenient for travellers using the Singapore to Desaru ferry and looking for a higher-end coastal getaway.

Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast

Mandarin Oriental, Desaru Coast is part of the current Desaru Coast resort portfolio and brings a luxury wellness concept to the destination.

Travellers considering this property should check current opening status, room availability and transfer arrangements for their dates.

Things to Do in Desaru

Desaru is more than a beach destination. The wider Desaru Coast development offers a mixture of family attractions, outdoor activities, golf, wellness, dining and nature experiences.

Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark

The Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark is one of the region's most popular family attractions.

The waterpark features slides, a wave pool, a lazy river and areas designed for younger visitors.

For families travelling from Singapore, the direct ferry combined with a hotel stay and waterpark visit can make a straightforward short holiday.

The Els Club Desaru Coast

Golfers can visit The Els Club Desaru Coast, which offers the Ocean Course and Valley Course.

The golf destination is associated with Ernie Els and is set within the natural coastal landscape of Desaru.

Golfers travelling with clubs should check the latest ferry operator baggage policy and any applicable oversized or sporting-equipment charges before booking.

Desaru Beaches

Beach time remains one of the biggest reasons to visit Desaru.

The coastline faces the South China Sea and provides a setting for swimming, relaxing, walking along the shore and enjoying the sunset.

If beach access is particularly important to you, check your hotel's exact beach location and current conditions when choosing accommodation.

Desaru Fruit Farm

Desaru Fruit Farm is another popular activity outside the core resort zone.

Visitors can learn about tropical fruits and seasonal produce while exploring the farm environment.

Popular Malaysian fruits associated with the region include durian, rambutan, mangosteen and jackfruit.

Jungle and Nature Experiences

Desaru Coast also promotes nature-focused activities such as mangrove experiences, outdoor adventures and ecological programmes.

Visitors looking for something beyond the beach can explore guided outdoor activities, mangrove tours and nature-based experiences around the destination.

Water Sports

Depending on the season, weather and operator availability, Desaru offers activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, jet-skiing, fishing and other coastal experiences.

Availability can change with weather and safety conditions, so confirm operating times before travelling.

How Many Days Do You Need in Desaru?

For a first visit from Singapore, 2 days and 1 night can work for a quick escape, while 3 days and 2 nights gives you considerably more time to enjoy the destination.

One-Night Desaru Trip

A one-night trip can focus on one main attraction and plenty of resort time.

A possible plan is:

• Morning ferry from Tanah Merah
• Arrive at Desaru Coast
• Check in or leave luggage at the hotel
• Lunch
• Adventure Waterpark or beach
• Dinner at the resort
• Overnight stay
• Breakfast
• Beach or resort activities
• Afternoon transfer to ferry terminal
• Return ferry to Singapore

Two-Night Desaru Trip

Two nights gives you much more flexibility.

You can dedicate one day to the resort and beach and another day to attractions such as Adventure Waterpark, golf or a fruit farm visit.

This is also useful for travellers who simply want a slower holiday rather than trying to fit several activities into a single day.

Is the Desaru Ferry Good for Families?

The Singapore to Desaru ferry can be a practical option for families because the direct sea connection removes the need for a long overland drive after crossing the Singapore-Malaysia border.

Families staying near Adventure Waterpark can combine:

• Ferry travel
• Hotel accommodation
• Waterpark activities
• Beach time
• Swimming
• Resort dining

When travelling with children, bring snacks, water, entertainment and any medication you normally need during the journey.

It is also worth checking your chosen resort's child policies, room configurations and activity restrictions before booking.

Is the Desaru Ferry Good for Couples?

Desaru Coast is also suited to couples looking for a short break from Singapore.

A typical couples' weekend can centre around:

• Luxury resort accommodation
• Beach walks
• Sunset
• Spa treatments
• Fine dining
• Private villa stays
• Golf
• Nature experiences

The direct ferry makes it possible to spend less of the weekend travelling by road and more time at the destination.

Can I Visit Desaru in One Day?

A day trip is possible in principle, but travellers should examine the ferry schedule carefully before planning one.

The current published timetable has a morning Tanah Merah departure and an evening return from Desaru Coast. This provides several hours at the destination, but immigration, terminal procedures and transfers reduce the usable time.

A day trip may work best when you have one clearly defined activity, such as Adventure Waterpark or a planned resort day experience.

For a relaxed beach holiday, however, an overnight stay gives you more time and reduces the pressure of catching the evening ferry.

Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry vs Driving

Both ferry and road travel are practical options, but the experience is different.

The ferry is particularly relevant when your accommodation is already close to the Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal.

Driving can offer more flexibility if you plan to explore several destinations outside Desaru Coast during the same trip.

Malaysia Immigration and Travel Documents

Because Desaru is in Malaysia, passengers arriving by ferry must complete the applicable Malaysian immigration procedures.

Keep your passport accessible throughout the journey.

Travellers should also check the latest Malaysian entry requirements based on their nationality before departure.

Passport Validity

Check that your passport meets the current Malaysian entry requirements before travelling. Different nationalities can have different requirements, and immigration policies can change.

Malaysia Digital Arrival Card

Eligible foreign visitors may need to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before arriving in Malaysia.

Malaysia's Immigration Department provides the official MDAC online service. Travellers should use the official Malaysian Immigration website and complete the required declaration within the permitted period before their arrival.

Do not rely on unofficial websites charging fees for an immigration declaration that can be completed through the official Malaysian system.

Visa Requirements

Malaysia's visa requirements depend on nationality.

For example, Malaysia's Immigration Department currently lists Singapore among the nationalities that do not require a visa for a stay of less than one month, while specific rules apply to other nationalities.

Travellers should check their nationality against the current Malaysian Immigration requirements before booking a non-refundable ferry.

Check Visa Information on HolidaySG

Currency in Desaru

Malaysia uses the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).

Credit and debit cards are widely useful at hotels, resorts and larger businesses, but carrying some Malaysian Ringgit can still be convenient for smaller purchases, local transportation and food outlets.

If you are staying inside the Desaru Coast resort area, you may be able to complete many purchases without large amounts of cash. However, it is sensible to have some MYR available.

What to Pack for the Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry

For a short Desaru trip, pack according to your activities rather than only the ferry journey.

• Passport
• Ferry booking confirmation
• Hotel confirmation
• Required Malaysian travel documents
• Malaysia Digital Arrival Card details if applicable
• Credit or debit card
• Some Malaysian Ringgit
• Swimwear
• Sunscreen
• Hat or sun protection
• Comfortable footwear
• Phone and charging cable
• Any personal medication

If you are going to Adventure Waterpark, bring appropriate swimwear and a change of clothes.

Golfers should also check the operator's latest oversized luggage or sports-equipment policy before bringing golf clubs.

Ferry Luggage Information

Ferry luggage rules can depend on the operator, ticket type and type of baggage.

HolidaySG's current route information displays standard luggage guidance, but travellers carrying large suitcases, golf equipment, bicycles or other oversized items should check the latest operator rules before travelling.

Keep passports, travel documents, medication, valuables and important electronics in your cabin bag instead of checked luggage.

Food and Dining at Desaru Coast

You do not need to leave Desaru Coast to find places to eat.

The destination's current dining portfolio includes casual restaurants, specialty cuisine, beach clubs, resort restaurants and dining options associated with the major hotels and attractions.

Hotel Dining

The major resorts operate their own restaurants and lounges, which can be convenient after returning from the waterpark, golf course or beach.

Malaysian Food

Travellers can look for Malaysian favourites, seafood, grilled dishes, noodles, rice dishes and local desserts.

International Cuisine

Desaru Coast's resort restaurants also provide international dining choices for travellers who prefer familiar dishes during a short holiday.

Check individual restaurant opening hours because dining availability can vary by day and season.

Best Time to Visit Desaru

Desaru is a coastal destination, so weather can influence beach activities, ferry operations and outdoor attractions.

Before travelling, check the weather forecast and any ferry operator notices for your departure date.

Weekends and public holidays can also be busier, particularly around hotels, water attractions and popular restaurants.

If your schedule is flexible, compare different travel dates and ferry availability before booking.

Important Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry Tips

1. Check the Exact Sailing Date

The direct Desaru ferry does not currently operate every day, so check the date before arranging accommodation.

2. Book the Hotel After Confirming the Ferry

Because sailings are date-specific, confirm that a ferry is available before purchasing a non-refundable resort booking.

3. Arrive Early

International ferry procedures require check-in and immigration, so arriving at the terminal around 90 minutes before departure provides more time.

4. Keep Your Passport Accessible

You will need it for ferry check-in and immigration.

5. Complete Required Malaysia Arrival Documentation

Check whether the MDAC or any other arrival documentation applies to your nationality and travel date.

6. Confirm Your Hotel Transfer

Ask the resort whether it provides shuttle service from Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal and confirm the latest operating times.

7. Check Your Return Ferry

Do not assume that another ferry will be available later the same day. The regular timetable has specific return sailings.

8. Check the Final Fare at Checkout

Ferry fares and surcharges can change, so the booking total shown for your selected date should be used when calculating your travel budget.

Is Desaru a Good Weekend Trip From Singapore?

Desaru is designed around leisure travel, making it suitable for a short holiday from Singapore.

The destination combines a coastal setting with resorts, beaches, outdoor attractions, golf, dining and family activities.

The direct ferry also gives travellers another option besides driving through the land border.

A typical weekend could include:

• Friday or Saturday morning ferry from Tanah Merah
• Resort check-in around midday
• Beach or swimming
• Adventure Waterpark
• Dinner at the resort
• Second-day golf, spa or nature activities
• Beach and lunch
• Evening ferry back to Singapore

Travellers who prefer a slower pace can stay for two or three nights.

Desaru vs Batam: Which Ferry Trip?

Desaru and Batam provide different holiday experiences.

If you specifically want a Malaysian coastal holiday with access to Desaru Coast resorts and Adventure Waterpark, the direct Tanah Merah to Desaru ferry is the relevant route to investigate.

Sample 2-Day Desaru Itinerary

Day 1: Singapore to Desaru Coast

8:40am: Arrive at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.

9:10am: Complete check-in and luggage procedures.

9:30am: Complete Singapore departure immigration.

10:10am: Depart Singapore for Desaru Coast.

11:40am: Arrive at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal.

12:00pm onward: Complete Malaysian immigration and travel to your resort.

1:00pm: Lunch.

2:00pm: Check in, enjoy the pool or head to the beach.

4:00pm: Resort activities or Adventure Waterpark.

6:30pm: Watch the sunset.

7:30pm: Dinner at the resort.

Day 2: Desaru Coast and Return to Singapore

7:30am: Breakfast.

9:00am: Beach, swimming or resort activity.

11:30am: Check out.

12:00pm: Lunch.

1:30pm: Visit a final attraction or relax around the resort.

3:30pm: Travel back towards Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal.

4:00pm: Complete check-in and terminal procedures.

5:30pm: Depart Desaru Coast.

7:00pm: Arrive at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.

Why Desaru Is Worth Visiting

Desaru is close enough to Singapore for a short holiday but far enough away to feel like a change of scenery.

The ferry connection adds another travel option for visitors who do not want to drive.

For many travellers, the appeal is the combination of:

• Direct ferry travel
• Coastal resorts
• Beaches
• Adventure Waterpark
• Golf
• Dining
• Spa and wellness experiences
• Nature activities
• Short travel time from Singapore

This makes the route particularly relevant for Singapore residents planning a long weekend, families looking for a nearby waterpark holiday, couples wanting a resort break and golfers planning a short trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry

Final Summary: Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry

The Tanah Merah to Desaru ferry offers a direct sea connection between Singapore and Desaru Coast in Johor.

The current BatamFast schedule lists the main service at 10:10am from Tanah Merah to Desaru Coast, with the return sailing at 5:30pm from Desaru Coast to Tanah Merah. The regular timetable currently operates Thursday through Monday, with possible additional services during selected festive periods and long weekends.

The journey takes approximately 90 minutes, and the current HolidaySG booking page displays fares from approximately S$70 per passenger one way.

For travellers staying in the Desaru Coast resort area, the direct ferry has the practical advantage of arriving at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal, which is already within the wider resort development.

From there, visitors can access resorts, beaches, Adventure Waterpark, golf facilities, dining and other activities in the area.

Before travelling, always confirm the latest ferry schedule, live ticket price, luggage rules, immigration requirements and hotel transfer arrangements for your exact travel date.

Check Tanah Merah to Desaru Ferry Availability & Prices

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