Ferry
How to Get from Singapore to Batam: The Complete Guide
Ferry terminals, ticket prices, immigration tips and the smartest routes for every type of trip. Everything a first-time visitor needs to know.
Sarah Tan
Five Ferry Routes, One Island
Getting from Singapore to Batam is one of Southeast Asia's most straightforward border crossings, but the number of terminals and operators still confuses first-timers. Here's the clean version.
The Three Singapore Departure Points
HarbourFront Terminal (VivoCity) serves the HarbourFront–Batam Centre and HarbourFront–Sekupang routes. It's in central south Singapore, directly accessible by MRT. This is the best choice if you are staying in Nagoya or Batam Centre.
Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal serves Nongsa Direct and Nongsapura. It's in east Singapore near Changi. Choose this one if your destination is Nongsa – you'll arrive right at the resort area without any Batam traffic.
Changi Point Ferry Terminal is a smaller terminal in the far east of Singapore. Less commonly used for Batam, but some departures to Batam's Bintan terminal depart from here.
How to Buy Tickets
You can book online via 12Go Asia (recommended for advance planning), at ferry company kiosks in the terminals, or through travel agents in Singapore's Chinatown. Online booking saves you the queue but adds a small booking fee.
Immigration Tips
Both sides have passport control. Arrive 30 minutes early minimum – 45 minutes on weekends. Singapore citizens and PR holders can use the Automated Clearance System (ACS). Most nationalities receive a 30-day Indonesian visa on arrival at no cost.
The Bottom Line
For Nagoya and Batam Centre: take the ferry from HarbourFront. For Nongsa resorts: use Tanah Merah. Book in advance for weekend travel. One-way tickets start from around SGD 28.