Batam has long been one of Singapore’s favourite weekend escapes, and for good reason. Just a short 45-minute to one-hour ferry ride from our shores, this Indonesian island offers an irresistible combination of affordable seafood feasts, relaxing spa treatments, bargain shopping, and exciting water sports — all at a fraction of Singapore prices. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a leisurely two-day retreat, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Batam getaway in 2026.
Getting There: Ferry Options and Prices
Getting to Batam from Singapore is incredibly straightforward. Several ferry operators — including BatamFast, Sindo Ferry, and Majestic Fast Ferry — run daily services from both HarbourFront Ferry Terminal and Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.
From Tanah Merah, Majestic Fast Ferry offers weekday departures at 8.15am, 10.30am, 3.15pm, 6pm, and 8.45pm, with additional timings on weekends and public holidays. The crossing takes approximately 50 to 60 minutes, depending on your destination port in Batam.
Return ferry tickets typically cost between S$30 and S$50, though prices may vary depending on the operator, time slot, and whether you’re travelling during peak periods. Do note that a temporary fuel surcharge has been in effect since March 2026, so factor that into your budget. It’s always best to book your tickets online in advance, especially for weekend and public holiday sailings, as ferries can fill up quickly.
Pro tip: If you’re based in the east of Singapore, Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal is far more convenient than HarbourFront and typically less crowded.
Where to Eat: Seafood Feasts at Kelong Restaurants
No trip to Batam is complete without a proper seafood feast, and the island’s famous kelong restaurants are the place to have one. These charming eateries are built on stilts over the water, offering stunning sea views alongside incredibly fresh catches.
Kelong Seafood Restaurant remains a perennial favourite among Singaporean visitors, serving up chilli crab, salted egg prawns, and butter cereal squid at prices that would make your jaw drop back home. A hearty seafood spread for two people can cost as little as S$50 — roughly what you’d pay for a single crab dish in Singapore.
For a more rustic experience, head to Kelong Baba, where the freshest fish, crabs, and shellfish are paired with gorgeous views of the sea and, on a clear day, even the Singapore skyline in the distance.
Beyond the kelongs, don’t miss the kopitiam breakfast scene in Nagoya. The old-school Chinese coffee shops open at dawn, with tiled floors and ceiling fans setting the scene for a traditional kopi and kaya toast breakfast. In the evenings, the street food stalls along Jalan Imam Bonjol come alive with the smoky aroma of Sate Madura (Javanese-style chicken and lamb skewers) and grilled corn — perfect for a casual supper after a day of exploring.
Shopping: Nagoya Hill and Beyond
Batam’s shopping scene centres around the bustling Nagoya district, and Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall is the crown jewel. As the largest shopping centre on the island, it houses everything from international brands to local boutiques, along with a bowling alley, cinema, and plenty of dining options.
What draws most Singaporean shoppers, however, are the bargain prices on clothing, electronics, snacks, and Indonesian handicrafts. Haggling is expected at the smaller shops and market stalls, so don’t be shy about negotiating — it’s all part of the fun.
Other popular shopping destinations include Grand Batam Mall, BCS Mall, and Mega Mall, each offering their own mix of retail therapy and entertainment. For those who love a good market experience, the ground floor shops around Nagoya Hill are packed with everything from batik fabrics to local snacks and souvenirs.
Things to Do: Adventures and Attractions
Barelang Bridge
One of Batam’s most iconic landmarks, the Barelang Bridge is a stunning chain of six bridges stretching over two kilometres of sparkling water, connecting the islands of Batam, Rempang, and Galang. It’s a must-visit for photos, especially during golden hour when the sunset paints the sky in shades of orange and pink.
Sea Forest Adventure Park
For thrill-seekers, Sea Forest Adventure is the region’s largest floating water park. Try your hand at parasailing, jet skiing, or water skiing — it’s an absolute blast and far more affordable than similar activities in Singapore.
Ranoh Island
If pristine beaches are what you’re after, take a short speedboat ride to Ranoh Island, a hidden gem in Batam’s archipelago. The white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters make it ideal for snorkelling and swimming, and it feels wonderfully untouched compared to the main island.
Spa and Massage
Batam is renowned for its affordable spa treatments, with a full-body massage costing as little as S$15 to S$25. Many visitors make spa time a centrepiece of their Batam trip — and honestly, who can blame them?
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Currency: While Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency, many shops and restaurants in tourist areas accept Singapore Dollars. However, you’ll typically get better value paying in Rupiah, so it’s worth exchanging some cash before you go or withdrawing from ATMs on the island.
Transport: Getting around Batam is easy with ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek, or you can hire a private car and driver for the day at very reasonable rates (around S$50 to S$80 for a full day).
Immigration: Remember to bring your passport — Batam is in Indonesia, so you’ll need to clear immigration on both sides. Singapore passport holders enjoy visa-free entry for stays of up to 30 days.
Best time to visit: While Batam is a year-round destination, the dry season from May to September offers the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and island-hopping.
Is Batam Worth It?
Absolutely. For Singaporeans looking for an affordable, hassle-free escape that doesn’t eat into precious annual leave, Batam ticks all the boxes. You can leave Singapore in the morning, feast on incredible seafood, squeeze in a massage, do some shopping, and be home in time for dinner — or stretch it into a relaxing weekend. With ferry services running multiple times daily and prices that are a fraction of what you’d spend at home, there’s really no reason not to make Batam your next weekend adventure.
For more travel inspiration, check out our Ultimate Day Trip Guide to Taman Mount Austin, Johor Bahru or browse our NATAS Fair 2025 coverage for more travel deals and tips.
Have you been to Batam recently? Share your favourite spots and hidden gems in the comments below!
