Thursday, 8 October 2026

Smooth Sailing to Bintan: Bintan Resort Ferries Schedule, Rates & Travel Tips

The ferry from Singapore to Bintan takes around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes , depending on the operator and where you arrive on the island.
Ferries leave from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore, but there are two main arrival areas to consider. Bintan Resort Ferries sails to Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal , which serves the Bintan Resorts area in the north. Other ferry services travel to Tanjung Pinang , farther south on the island.

Choosing the right arrival terminal can save considerable time after you land, so check where your hotel or resort is located before booking.

Here's what to know about the schedules, fares, terminals of the Ferry from Singapore to Bintan, Bintan Resort Ferries, luggage allowances and international travel requirements.


Singapore to Bintan Ferry: Journey Time and Terminals


The average Singapore to Bintan ferry journey takes around 1 hour 13 minutes. The fastest listed services take approximately 1 hour , while Bintan Resort Ferries take around 1 hour 10 minutes from Tanah Merah to Bandar Bentan Telani.
Operator Departure Arrival Approx. duration
Bintan Resort Ferries Tanah Merah Bandar Bentan Telani 1h 10m
Majestic Fast Ferry Tanah Merah Tanjung Pinang 1h
Sindo Ferry Tanah Merah Tanjung Pinang About 1h 45m
Singapore to Bintan overall Singapore Bintan Average 1h 13m
The available schedule depends on the operator and travel date. Current route information shows services beginning from around 8:10 AM , with later departures available during the day.


Bandar Bentan Telani or Tanjung Pinang: Which Should You Choose?


This is one of the most important things to check before booking a ferry to Bintan.


Bandar Bentan Telani


Choose Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal if you're staying in or around the Bintan Resorts area in northern Bintan. Bintan Resort Ferries operates directly between Tanah Merah and Bandar Bentan Telani. For many resort holidays, this is the more convenient arrival point.


Tanjung Pinang


Other operators travel from Singapore to Tanjung Pinang, the main city on Bintan. This may be more suitable if your accommodation or plans are around Tanjung Pinang or elsewhere in southern Bintan. Don't assume that all "Singapore to Bintan" tickets take you to the same place. Check the arrival terminal before paying.


Bintan Resort Ferries


Bintan Resort Ferries operates between Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore and Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal in Bintan. The crossing takes around 1 hour 10 minutes. The operator has four catamaran ferries:

  • Aria Bupala
  • Indera Bupala
  • Wan Seri Beni
  • Wan Sendari

Passengers can choose between Economy and Emerald Class, with different fares, luggage allowances and onboard benefits.


Bintan Resort Ferries Schedule


Bintan Resort Ferries publishes schedules according to the travel date. For September 2026, the supplied schedule lists the following departures from Tanah Merah:
Day Listed departures from Tanah Merah
Monday–Thursday 8:10 AM, 11:10 AM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM
Friday–Saturday 8:10 AM, 9:10 AM, 11:10 AM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM
Sunday 8:10 AM, 11:10 AM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM
This is a date-specific schedule, not a permanent timetable. Ferry frequency can vary according to the date, season and demand, so always check the available sailing for your actual travel day.


Singapore to Bintan Ferry Fares


Fares depend on the operator, class, passenger age and travel date. The supplied route information shows Singapore to Bintan fares starting from around S$55 one way across available operators. For Bintan Resort Ferries, the supplied regular-day fares are:
Class Passenger One-way fare Return fare
Economy Adult S$58 S$102
Economy Child S$53 S$80
Emerald Adult S$85 S$146
Emerald Child S$76 S$126
Treat these as indicative fares for the specified fare period. Prices can change according to travel dates, availability, season and booking conditions, so use the fare displayed for your actual sailing when booking.


Economy vs Emerald Class


Bintan Resort Ferries offers two main travel classes.


Economy Class


Economy is the standard option and comes with a luggage allowance of up to 20 kg according to the supplied information. It's the straightforward choice if you simply want the ferry journey without the additional premium services.


Emerald Class


Emerald Class includes additional services such as:

  • Priority boarding and disembarkation
  • Assigned seating
  • Emerald Lounge access
  • Priority baggage handling
  • Expedited immigration clearance
  • Complimentary hot and cold beverages
  • Service attendants

Selected ferries may also offer open-deck seating. Emerald Class also comes with a higher baggage allowance of up to 30 kg .


Bintan Resort Ferries Luggage Allowance


The supplied baggage allowances are:
Class Baggage allowance
Economy Up to 20 kg
Emerald Up to 30 kg
The wider Singapore to Bintan route information also refers to a maximum of 20 kg of checked baggage and 10 kg of hand luggage on applicable services. Because baggage rules can vary by operator and ticket class, check the allowance attached to your selected sailing before packing.


Terminal Fees and Other Charges: Are Terminal Fees Included in the Ferry Fare?


The first fare shown during a search may not be the final amount payable. International ferry tickets can include separate terminal, departure, booking and fuel-related charges. Operators display these costs differently. Some include several charges in the advertised fare, while others add them during checkout or require a terminal fee to be paid separately. Before confirming a ticket, check whether the total:

  • Includes the Singapore passenger departure fee
  • Includes any Bintan terminal or departure fee
  • Includes taxes and fuel surcharges
  • Includes booking or administration charges
  • Covers only the base ferry fare
  • Applies to one journey or both parts of a return ticket
  • Uses different charges for adults, children and infants

For a return booking, check both directions. A ticket may include the Singapore-side fee but handle the Bintan-side charge differently, or vice versa. Do not describe one amount as a universal “Bintan seaport tax.” Charges, names and payment methods can differ by terminal and operator. Use the final checkout breakdown and the conditions for your selected sailing rather than relying on a fee quoted for another Indonesian island or ferry route.


How to Book a Ferry from Singapore to Bintan


Booking starts with choosing the correct part of Bintan.

  1. Select Singapore as your departure point.
  2. Choose your Bintan destination.
  3. Enter your travel date and passenger details.
  4. Compare operators, arrival terminals and journey times.
  5. Choose Bintan Resort Ferries if you want Bandar Bentan Telani .
  6. Select Economy or Emerald Class where available.
  7. Enter passenger and passport details accurately.
  8. Review the fare and any additional fees.
  9. Complete payment.
  10. Save your e-ticket and boarding information.

If you're staying at a resort, check its transfer instructions before booking. Your accommodation may recommend a particular ferry or arrival terminal.


How Early Should You Arrive at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal?


For the Singapore to Bintan route, plan to arrive at least 90 minutes before departure. The supplied route guidance gives a 40-minute check-in cut-off. At Tanah Merah, have your:

  • Ferry ticket
  • Passport
  • Travel itinerary
  • Required entry documents

ready when checking in. Arriving early is particularly useful on weekends and other busy travel dates when queues for check-in and immigration may be longer.


Baggage Check-In and Boarding Times


The supplied information lists the following timings:
Process Timing
Recommended terminal arrival At least 90 minutes before departure
Check-in cut-off 40 minutes before departure
Baggage counter opens 60 minutes before departure
Security screening starts 45 minutes before departure
Baggage counter closes 20 minutes before departure
Boarding gate closes 15 minutes before departure
Treat these as minimum operational timings rather than a reason to arrive late. For an international journey, getting to the terminal well ahead of the cut-off leaves more time for check-in, immigration and unexpected queues.


Passport Requirements for Bintan


Bintan is in Indonesia, so travelling from Singapore involves an international border crossing. Your passport should have at least six months of validity. The supplied information also advises carrying proof of onward or return travel. Keep your passport somewhere easy to reach throughout the journey rather than packing it inside checked luggage.


Do You Need a Visa for Bintan?


Visa requirements depend on your nationality. The supplied information states that travellers from ASEAN countries, including Singapore, may be eligible for visa-free entry for stays of up to 30 days. Visa on Arrival may also be available to eligible nationalities. Because Indonesian entry requirements can change and eligibility depends on your passport, check the current rules that apply to you before travelling.


Digital Arrival Card for Indonesia


Passengers entering Indonesia from abroad must complete the All Indonesia arrival declaration before arrival. This requirement applies to travellers entering through international airports and seaports, including Bandar Bentan Telani.

Complete the declaration within the three days before arrival, rather than at least 72 hours in advance. It combines immigration, customs, health and quarantine information in one form.

The declaration is free when completed through the official All Indonesia website or app. After submitting it, save the generated QR code to your phone and keep a screenshot available in case you cannot access the internet at the terminal.

The declaration is separate from a visa. Travellers must still check whether they need a visa, Visa on Arrival or another form of entry permission based on their nationality.


What Happens When You Arrive at Bandar Bentan Telani?


Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal is on the northern side of Bintan and primarily serves the Bintan Resorts area. After disembarking, you'll complete the required immigration and customs procedures before continuing to your accommodation.

Shuttle services are available for some hotels and resorts near the terminal. If your accommodation includes a transfer, check where the driver or shuttle will meet you before leaving Singapore.


Is Bintan Suitable for a Weekend Trip from Singapore?


Yes. The short ferry journey to Bandar Bentan Telani makes Bintan practical for a weekend break from Singapore. However, the journey involves more than the time spent on the ferry. Allow time for:

  • Early arrival at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal
  • Check-in and Singapore departure formalities
  • The ferry crossing
  • Indonesian immigration and customs
  • Transport from the terminal to your resort
  • Return-ferry check-in
  • Possible delays caused by weather or port conditions

Booking both directions together can make planning easier, particularly for weekends, public holidays and other busy travel periods. Remember that Bintan is one hour behind Singapore . Ferry schedules usually show each departure and arrival in the local time of the relevant terminal.


Tips for a Smoother Singapore to Bintan Ferry Trip


  • Choose the correct arrival terminal: Bandar Bentan Telani serves the Bintan Resorts area, while Tanjung Pinang is in a different part of the island.
  • Arrive early: Bintan Resort Ferries recommends reaching Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal around 90 minutes before departure. Check-in closes 40 minutes before sailing.
  • Check your passport: The operator requires at least six months of passport validity. Confirm Indonesia’s current entry rules before travelling.
  • Review your visa requirements: Visa rules depend on your nationality and purpose of travel.
  • Complete the All Indonesia declaration: Submit it through the official platform within the three days before arrival and save the QR code.
  • Check your baggage allowance: Economy Class includes up to 20 kg of checked baggage, while Emerald Class includes up to 30 kg.
  • Confirm your resort transfer: Do not assume transport from Bandar Bentan Telani is included with your room.
  • Review the complete fare: Check what taxes, levies and other charges are included before paying.
  • Book your return journey early: Popular weekend and holiday sailings can fill more quickly.
  • Remember the time difference: Bintan is one hour behind Singapore.
  • Check your actual travel date: Departure times and additional sailings can vary.
  • Allow enough time before a flight: If connecting to an international flight at Changi Airport, Bintan Resort Ferries recommends choosing a return ferry that arrives in Singapore at least five hours before departure.


The Bottom Line


The ferry from Singapore to Bintan takes around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, making the island an easy short-haul trip from Singapore. The most important decision is where you want to arrive.


Bintan Resort Ferries travels from Tanah Merah to Bandar Bentan Telani , making it convenient for the Bintan Resorts area. Other operators serve Tanjung Pinang , which is in a different part of the island. For Bintan Resort Ferries, the supplied regular-day Economy fares start from S$58 one way for adults and S$53 for children , with Emerald Class available for travellers who want additional services and a larger baggage allowance.

Whichever service you choose, arrive at Tanah Merah around 90 minutes early, check your passport and entry requirements, and confirm the schedule, fare, arrival terminal and ticket inclusions for your actual travel date before booking.


Frequently Asked Questions


How long is the ferry from Singapore to Bintan?


The overall route takes around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes , depending on the operator and arrival terminal. Bintan Resort Ferries take approximately 1 hour 10 minutes from Tanah Merah to Bandar Bentan Telani.


How much is the ferry from Singapore to Bintan?


The supplied route information shows fares starting from around S$55 one way across available operators. Bintan Resort Ferries lists regular-day Economy fares from S$58 one way for adults and S$53 for children.


Where does the ferry to Bintan leave from in Singapore?


The services covered here depart from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal .


Where do Bintan Resort Ferries arrive?


Bintan Resort Ferries arrives at Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal , which serves the Bintan Resorts area.


Is Bandar Bentan Telani the same as Tanjung Pinang?


No. There are different ferry terminals in different parts of Bintan. Check which one is closest to your accommodation before booking.


How often do Bintan Resort Ferries operate?


The schedule varies by date. The supplied September 2026 schedule lists multiple daily departures from Tanah Merah, starting at 8:10 AM .


What is the difference between Economy and Emerald Class?


Economy Class has free seating and a checked-baggage allowance of up to 20 kg. Emerald Class includes assigned seating, dedicated check-in, priority boarding and baggage handling, lounge access, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and a checked-baggage allowance of up to 30 kg. Expedited immigration is available in Bintan but does not apply to Singapore immigration.


How early should I arrive at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal?


Plan to arrive at least 90 minutes before departure . The supplied route information lists a 40-minute check-in cut-off.


Do you need a passport to travel from Singapore to Bintan?


Yes. You need a valid passport for international travel to Indonesia. The supplied guidance states that it should have at least six months of validity.


What is the Bintan Resort Ferries luggage allowance?


The supplied information lists up to 20 kg for Economy Class and 30 kg for Emerald Class .


Can you visit Bintan for a weekend from Singapore?


Yes. The short ferry journey makes Bintan suitable for a weekend trip. Booking your outbound and return ferries together can make planning easier.

(Photo credit: Kirill Petropavlov)

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