Ferry from Singapore to Johor: Complete Guide

Introduction

Want to skip the notorious checkpoint traffic entirely? Taking a ferry from Singapore to Johor offers a scenic, traffic-free alternative to land crossings at Woodlands and Tuas. While less common than driving or taking the bus, ferry services provide a unique way to travel between the two countries.

This guide covers all ferry routes between Singapore and Johor, including schedules, prices, terminals, and when ferry travel makes the most sense.

Active Ferry Routes Singapore-Johor

Changi Ferry Terminal ↔ Pengerang Ferry Terminal:

Route: Eastern Singapore to eastern Johor
Journey time: 50-60 minutes
Frequency: Limited schedule (check ahead)
Operator: Penguin Ferry Services
Status: Seasonal service, verify current operations

Note: Regular passenger ferry services between Singapore and Johor are currently limited. Most ferry traffic focuses on cargo and specialized services. The RTS Link rapid transit system (opening 2026) will provide a reliable alternative to land crossings.

When Ferry Travel Makes Sense

Consider ferry travel when:

Traveling to eastern Johor destinations (Desaru, Pengerang)
Avoiding checkpoint traffic during peak periods
Seeking a scenic, relaxed journey
Traveling with minimal luggage
Preferring public transport over driving

Stick to land crossings when:

Traveling to JB city center or western Johor
Bringing a vehicle across the border
Carrying large luggage or goods
Needing flexible departure times
Time-sensitive travel (more frequent bus/car options)

Changi Ferry Terminal Information

Location:

51 Lorong Bekukong, Singapore 499172
Eastern Singapore, near Changi Village

How to get there:

Bus: Service 2, 29, 59, 109 to Changi Village
MRT: Tanah Merah Station + bus transfer
Taxi/Grab: ~30-40 min from CBD

Facilities:

Immigration clearance
Waiting lounge
Basic refreshments
Parking (limited spaces)

Ferry Ticket Prices and Booking

Typical pricing (varies by operator):

Adult one-way: SGD 35-45
Child (2-12 years): SGD 25-35
Infant (under 2): Free or minimal fee
Round trip: Usually 10-15% discount

Booking:

Online booking recommended (limited capacity)
Walk-in tickets subject to availability
Peak periods (weekends, holidays) sell out quickly
Book 1-2 weeks in advance for guaranteed seats

What’s included:

Passenger fare only
Immigration processing
Baggage allowance (typically 20 kg)

Journey Experience and What to Expect

Check-in process:

Arrive 45-60 minutes before departure
Singapore immigration clearance at terminal
Malaysia immigration on arrival (Pengerang)
Baggage screening similar to airports

Onboard:

Indoor air-conditioned seating
Outdoor deck areas (weather permitting)
Basic restroom facilities
Snacks and drinks available

Journey time:

50-60 minutes water crossing
Add 30-45 min for immigration (both sides)
Total: 90-120 minutes door-to-door

Alternatives to Ferry: RTS Link Coming 2026

Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link:

Opening: 2026
Route: Woodlands North (Singapore) ↔ Bukit Chagar (JB)
Journey time: 5 minutes border crossing
Capacity: 10,000 passengers per hour per direction
Immigration: Integrated clearance at terminals

The RTS Link will provide a high-speed, traffic-free alternative that connects directly to JB city center - faster and more convenient than current ferry options.

Ferry vs Land Crossing Comparison

Ferry advantages:

No traffic jams
Scenic ocean views
Relaxing journey
Avoid checkpoint stress

Ferry disadvantages:

Limited schedules (few departures daily)
Only serves eastern destinations
Cannot bring vehicles
Weather-dependent (rough seas = delays/cancellations)
Higher cost than bus

Land crossing advantages:

More frequent departures (bus every 10-15 min)
Direct routes to JB city
Can bring vehicles
More destinations served
Lower cost options

Quick Tips for Ferry Travel

Book tickets online in advance
Arrive 60 minutes before departure for immigration
Check weather forecasts (rough seas delay ferries)
Bring motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness
Pack light (baggage allowance limits)
Verify current ferry schedules (services can be suspended)
Have ringgit for onward transport in Johor
Download offline maps for Pengerang area

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I bring my car on the ferry? Current passenger ferries from Changi do not accommodate vehicles. For vehicle transport, you must use Woodlands or Tuas land crossings.

Q: How often do ferries run? Ferry schedules are limited, typically 1-3 departures per day. Check operator websites for current schedules.

Q: Is ferry faster than driving to JB? For eastern Johor (Desaru), yes. For JB city center, land crossings during off-peak hours are usually faster.

Q: Do I need a visa for the ferry? Immigration requirements are the same as land crossings - passport required, visa depends on nationality.

Q: What if the ferry is cancelled? Ferries can be cancelled due to rough weather. Operators typically offer refunds or rebooking. Have a backup plan (land crossing).

Check our live traffic dashboard for land checkpoint conditions if ferry travel doesn’t suit your needs.