4 Easy Transport Options To Desaru Coast From Singapore (Step By Step Guide)

Last updated 19 Jun 2024SGMYTAXI

Planning a relaxing getaway to Desaru Coast?

Then this guide is a must-read for you!

Whether you’re planning to drive, take a taxi, hop on a bus, or catch a ferry to Desaru Coast, this ultimate guide will take you through each option.

Even if you don’t have your own car, you can still explore the beauty of Desaru with all the transport to Desaru from Singapore options we’ll list down below.

Ready?

Read on to find out how to get to Desaru Coast from Singapore!

 

1. Overview: Singapore To/From Desaru Coast

Popular Transport Options

There are many options for traveling between Desaru and Singapore, each offering its own unique advantages and experiences.

However, the two most popular options are by private taxi or by ferry.

 

 

If you decide to travel by ferry to Desaru Coast, take the ferry directly to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal.

If you are traveling to Pengerang for work, take the ferry to Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal.

 

For the best Desaru experience, visit during the dry season from April to October to enjoy all the outdoor activities Desaru has to offer.

Do remember that non-Singaporean travelers should ensure they have the necessary Malaysian Disembarkation Card (MDAC) information filled out before heading to Desaru.

 

 

 

2. Singapore to Desaru Coast By Taxi

 

There are TWO types of taxi services to choose from – private taxis that come right to your doorstep and those that are available at terminals.

Depending on where you are, you can catch a taxi from Ban-San Taxi Terminal (Queen Street Bus Station) in Singapore or from Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru.

 

However, if you prefer a more convenient option, book a private taxi with SGMYTAXI and get picked up directly from your doorstep.

While booking a private taxi might seem a bit costly if you’re traveling solo, it’s well worth it for the time and energy you’ll save.

Instead of waiting in long lines and worrying about crowds, enjoy a direct ride private taxi from Singapore to Desaru Coast in a comfortable, with SGMYTAXI.

 

 

3. Singapore to Desaru Coast By Ferry

 

 

If you’re considering traveling from Singapore to Desaru Coast by ferry, here is a quick breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide:

 

Why Choose Ferry

• Scenic Journey: Enjoy picturesque views of the coastline and sea during your trip.
• Comfortable Ride: Ferries often provide spacious seating and amenities for a comfortable journey.
• Avoid Traffic: Skip the road traffic and border congestion typically experienced with car travel.
• Free Shuttle Bus: 10 minutes shuttle bus ride to Westin Desaru, Hard Rock Hotel & Anantara Desaru from Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal.

 

Why Don’t Choose Ferry

• Limited Schedules: Ferry services may have fewer departure times
• Weather Dependent: Ferry operations can be affected by bad weather, leading to delays or cancellations (usually during North East Monsoon season from November to February)
• Transfer: Additional transportation might be needed to reach the ferry terminal and your final destination in Desaru.
• Cost: Ferry tickets can be more expensive when traveling as a family/group as kids and even babies pay the same price as adults.

 

There are two ferry routes to Desaru from Singapore. Below are the prices, travel duration departure times and days for each route:

 

Route 1: Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal

Departure Time	Departure Days	Price
8:30am	Monday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday	One-Way: SGD$70 Two-Way: SGD$108

Travel time: Approximately 90 minutes to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal

 

Route 2: Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal

Departure Time	Departure Days	Price
10:40am	Friday Saturday Sunday	One-Way: SGD$43 Two-Way: SGD$73

Travel time: Approximately 45 minutes to Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal plus another 35 minutes by bus or other transport to Desaru Coast

 

Do note that in the event of rough sea conditions, ferry routes may be diverted from Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal to Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal, with a coach transfer arranged for your convenience.

You can purchase your Singapore to Desaru ferry tickets online from BatamFast website.

 

 

4. Singapore To Desaru Coast By Bus (Suspended)

 

Initially operated by Causeway Link from JB Sentral, the bus service was suspended due to low demand as most tourists prefer traveling by private taxi or ferry.

Although you may see some of the promotional banner of saying it has bus from JB Sentral to Desaru, it actually suspended on 2023. 

Buses face problems like traffic jams, schedule inflexibility, customs delays, and it is an inconvenient travel option for families.

However, if you live in JB, you can still opt for the available bus services from JB.

For Coach alternative, please look for WTS direct coach from Singapore to Desaru Coast.

 

 

5. Singapore To Desaru Coast By Car (Self Driving)

 

If you’re looking to drive yourself from Singapore to Desaru Coast, here are some helpful travel tips to get you started:

Suggested Departure Time: Depart early in the morning to avoid peak hour traffic.

Recommended Route: Follow the North-South Highway (PLUS Highway) for a smooth journey.

Touch ‘n Go for Toll Payments: Ensure you have a Touch ‘n Go card for toll payments.

The toll fee at Singapore Woodlands Checkpoint is SGD 0.80, while Malaysia’s Plus toll charges RM2.37 for cars. For other toll fees and charges, refer here.

 

Ensure You Have The Following:

• Passport
• Driving License
• Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP)
• Touch ‘n Go card
• Atleast ¾ tank of petrol
• Data Roaming Service

 

Immigration Clearance: You can cross the Singapore-Malaysia border using either a QR Code or a physical passport.

Note: The QR code for immigration clearance is not yet implemented at JB land checkpoints JB CIQ Link or JB CIQ Second Link) so you still need to present your passport for immigration clearance.

 

Why Choose Self Driving:

• Flexibility, comfort & convenience: Travel directly to your destination at your own pace, in the comfort of your own vehicle.
• Explore: You can choose to stop at interesting spots along the way from Singapore to Desaru Coast.
• Local Dining: Opportunity to visit local restaurants in Bandar Penawar and Sungai Rengit.
• Immigration: Clear immigration without having to leave the vehicle.

 

Why Don’t Choose Self-Driving:

• Delays: Potential for heavy traffic and possible delays at immigration checkpoints especially during weekends and holidays.
• Tiring: Long drives can be exhausting, especially if you’re the driver.
• Inconvenience: You will need to ensure you have all the required documents , pay toll, road charges, VEP and navigate your way to Desaru Coast

 

6. Shuttle Bus In Desaru (Additional Info)

 

For the convenience of tourist and visitors, there is a free shuttle bus that operates within Desaru Coast.

The shuttle bus covers four resorts (Hard Rock, Westin, Anantara, One & Only) and the ferry terminal.

If you are taking the ferry back to Singapore, do check the shuttle bus schedule which should be available at your hotel lobby reception.

Note: This shuttle bus service is not intended for travel outside the Desaru Coast.

 

 

7. Conclusion: Useful Tips

 

Now that you know all the different travel options from Singapore to Desaru Coast, here are some helpful tips for your stay in Desaru Coast:

• Westin and Hard Rock are within walking distance of each other.
• If you’re staying at the Hard Rock Hotel, you can enjoy the public beach in front of the Westin Resort.
• Don’t worry about finding good food without your own transport as you can easily walk between Hard Rock, Westin, and Anantara, all offering great dining, especially Anantara.
• For greater flexibility, using your own car or hiring a private taxi from Singapore to Desaru is the best choice.
• Hard Rock and Westin offer free parking for guests.
• Try to avoid planning your holiday in Desaru on weekends and public holidays to escape the crowds.

Safe travels and enjoy your trip to Desaru!

 

FAQs

Q1: How much is the Ferry ticket to Desaru Coast?

The ferry ticket from Tanah Merah Terminal to Desaru Coast Terminal is SGD70 one way, SGD108 for a round trip.

Q2: What is the ferry schedule departure time in Tanah Merah Terminal?

The ferry departs from Tanah Merah Terminal at 8.30AM every Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Q3: How many ferry terminals are near Desaru area?

There are 3, Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal, Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal, and Tanjung Belungkor Ferry Terminal (suspended service).

Q4: Should I buy the Singapore to Desaru ferry ticket in advance?

Yes, it is advisable to purchase you ferry ticket in advance especially if you are planning your trip during a long weekend or public holiday.

Q5: What is the best way from Singapore to Desaru Coast ?

The best and most popular options are by ferry or by hiring a private car.

Q6: How to get to Desaru Coast Resort From Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal?

There is a free shuttle bus that operates within Desaru Coast that travels between Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal and four resorts.

Q7: Is there any taxi service in Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal?

Yes, but as taxi service is not consistent, it is advisable to plan in advance.

Q8: How long from Singapore to Desaru Coast?

During off-peak travel times, it takes approximately 2-2.5 hours to travel from Singapore to Desaru Coast.