Weekend Getaway: 8 Islands you can reach by ferry from Singapore

Weekend Getaway: 9 Paradise islands just a ferry’s ride away from Singapore

Shelina Assomull

09 Feb 2018

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Bawah
Bawah Private Island is a cluster of five pristine islands nestled among three lagoons in the stunning untouched Anambas archipelago in Indonesia. The island is completely sustainable, eco-friendly and is run in such a way to benefits the local community living there. Its 35 luxury eco-designed villas are made of sustainable materials like bamboo and recycled teak, and the island has a strict ‘no heavy machinery’ rule to protect its lush flora and fauna.

Total Time: 2 hours

How to Get There: You can get there via a ferry from Singapore to Batam, followed by a private seaplane to Bawah.
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Pulau Pangkil
Another private island for these in desperate need of a city break. Pangkil is perfect for a luxurious cabin stay surrounded by greenland and sea. For big groups looking for a trip, apparently you can rent out the entire island for SGD6,900!

Travel Time: 2 hours 40 minutes

How to Get There: Catch a ferry from Tanah Merah in Singapore to Bintan. Board a taxi or bus to Pama Jetty, where you can catch a short boat ride to Pulau Pangkil.

Photos: Pangkil
3/9
Nikoi Island
If ultra-romantic private island resort destinations are your thing (of course they are!), Nikoi is a great choice. This one-resort island privado is just off the coast off Bintan.

Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

How to Get There: Ferry from Singapore to Bintan, then taxi across Bintan from ferry terminal to jetty, launch from jetty to Nikoi.

Photos: Nikoi Island (Facebook)
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Batam
Although not known for its ultra-relaxing paradise vibes, Batam is a super economical and closeby option for Singaporeans looking to get out quick for the weekend. It is still possible to find a slice of paradise in Batam in the Montigo resort. Well known for its awesome views and spacious accomodation. This is a great spot for those looking for a resort break with minimal travel time.

Travel Time: 45 minutes

How to Get There: Ferry from Harbourfront in Singapore to Batam Centre.

Photos: Montigo Resorts
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Bintan
One of the larger nearby islands to escape to, Bintan has a lot to offer. Expect hiking, water sports, some wildlife and of course gorgeous beaches.

Travel Time: 1 hour

How to Get There: Ferry from Singapore Tanah Merah ferry terminal.

Photos: Wonderful Indonesia
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Rawa
Rawa is the perfect stop for those looking for a nearby getaway in Malaysia. The beaches here are beautiful and the resorts offer amazing buffet spreads of Malaysian cuisine. You can also snorkel around the island and sink your teeth into a few parties. Accommodation is limited, so book early!

Travel Time: 4 hours

How to Get There: Singapore to Mersing in car or bus and then a ferry to the island, normally organised by your resort.

Photos: Alangs Rawa
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Sibu
Sibu is another secret Malaysian island gem, often missed by tourists. Sibu is a little larger than neighbouring Malaysian islands and so offers a larger range of accommodation as well as activities. There is a lot of snorkelling, fishing, trekking as well as great food and relaxing days you can indulge in by the beach. We love the traditional Malaysian chalets and kid-friendly activities in Sea Gypsy Village.

Travel Time: 3 hours

How to Get There: Singapore drive to Tanjong Leman, and your accommodation will normally arrange a ferry to collect you.

Photos: Sibu Resort
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Cempadak
This private island, which is the sister island to Nikoi, is by far our favourite. It is a short ferry's ride away from paradise, and boasts of gorgeous sea and beach villas. Expect the most breathtaking of views and the feeling of never wanting to go home.

Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

How to Get There: Ferry from Singapore to Bintan Resorts, taxi across Bintan from ferry terminal to jetty, and then jetty to Cempedak.

Photos: Cempedak
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Pulau Joyo
This one's for the lovers of private island resorts and sand. We love Joyo's beautifully sandy beach and middle of the ocean vibe. Another Indonesian treasure, only a stone's throw away from our shores.

Travel Time: 3 hours

How to Get There: Board a ferry from Tanah Merah Singapore to Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal. The island's Joyo Resort will arrange for a speed boat to take you to the island from there.

Photos: Pulau Joyo

Don’t like flying but love an island getaway? You can get to all these islands in less than four hours – without a plane!

Going on a holiday away from the city can be difficult to do with just two days of weekend getaway time. Flying always seems to take so long and can be pretty draining.

Here in Singapore, we’re lucky to be in the heart of Southeast Asia, surrounded by exotic break choices. Due to our location, there is a plethora of places that are easily reachable by driving or by ferry. For those looking for a weekend getaway, without the time and price-tag of flying, check out our guide to 8 gorgeous islands you near Singapore you can reach in less than 4 hours!

Shelina Assomull

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