Tanah Merah Ferries

The port of Tanah Merah plays a key role in the ferry network of Singapore, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 2 ferry routes operated by 4 ferry companies, Tanah Merah serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Tanah Merah, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Desaru - Tanah Merah connecting Tanah Merah with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Bintan Resort Ferries, Sindo Ferry, Majestic Fast Ferry run regular services from Tanah Merah, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Tanah Merah offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Tanah Merah is exceptionally well-connected within Singapore's comprehensive transportation network. The ferry terminal is approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Changi Airport, making it convenient for international travelers. Singapore's efficient MRT system serves Tanah Merah with its own station, from which a short bus ride or taxi journey takes you directly to the ferry facilities. If driving, follow the East Coast Parkway (ECP) and watch for clear signage directing you to the terminal. Ample parking is available at the terminal, though rates vary depending on length of stay.

Nestled along Singapore's eastern coastline, Tanah Merah stands as a crucial maritime connection point for travelers seeking island adventures. This modern district combines Singapore's signature efficiency with a relaxed coastal atmosphere, making it an ideal departure point for ferry journeys. As waves lap against its shores, Tanah Merah offers visitors their first taste of Singapore's blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty before setting sail to nearby destinations.

Singapore's equatorial climate ensures warm temperatures year-round, with Tanah Merah enjoying consistent weather patterns ideal for ferry travel. February to April offers the most pleasant conditions with lower humidity and reduced rainfall, making sea journeys smoother and more comfortable. November to January brings the Northeast Monsoon with occasional heavy downpours that might affect ferry schedules. The June-September period sees excellent ferry connectivity to surrounding islands due to peak tourist season, though terminals can be busier. For the perfect balance of good weather and manageable crowds, consider visiting during April-May or October when you'll enjoy favorable sailing conditions without the peak season rush.

Tanah Merah serves as a prime jumping-off point for exploring the beautiful islands of Indonesia's Riau Archipelago. Bintan Island, just a 45-minute ferry ride away, offers pristine beaches and world-class resorts perfect for weekend escapes. Batam Island, reached in under an hour, combines shopping opportunities with cultural experiences and seafood dining. The serene Nikoi Island presents an exclusive private island experience approximately 2.5 hours from departure. For the adventurous traveler, the longer routes to Tanjung Pinang open up possibilities for deeper exploration into Indonesian culture and landscapes, with vessels departing regularly throughout the day.

Before or after your ferry journey, Tanah Merah offers several worthwhile experiences within easy reach. East Coast Park, just minutes away, presents a 15-kilometer stretch of beach with cycling paths, water sports facilities, and seafood restaurants serving Singapore's famous chili crab and black pepper crab. The nearby Bedok Food Centre provides an authentic taste of local cuisine with dozens of hawker stalls offering Singaporean specialties at remarkably affordable prices. Maritime enthusiasts will appreciate the Changi Naval Base viewing areas, while the Changi Village area offers a more relaxed atmosphere with colonial architecture and waterfront dining options. Don't miss sampling kaya toast with soft-boiled eggs at the traditional coffee shops for a true Singaporean breakfast experience.

The name 'Tanah Merah' translates to 'red earth' in Malay, referencing the reddish clay cliffs that once dominated this coastline before modern development. This area underwent a dramatic transformation in the 1970s when massive land reclamation projects extended Singapore's eastern coastline by several hundred meters. Maritime historians note that Tanah Merah has served as a departure point for sea travelers since the early 20th century, though the modern ferry terminal only dates to the 1990s. Before the construction of Changi Airport, this area was primarily known for its fishing villages and coconut plantations, with many older Singaporeans still remembering when sampans (traditional wooden boats) were the primary vessels departing from its shores.