Are you going on a tropical getaway to the beautiful island of Tioman?
It’s one of the most popular holiday destinations for Singaporeans.
We’ll share with you how to get to Tioman—whether you’re coming from Singapore, JB, or KL.
Find out all there is to know, from ferry operators to which jetty best suits you.
Make sure to read our useful tips and notes for additional info!
Overview
So how to get to Tioman from Singapore?
The only way to get to Tioman is by sea. You used to be able to get a flight from KL, but that has been discontinued.
The only ferry operators to Tioman Island are Bluewater Ferry and Cataferry. You can catch the Tioman ferry from only two jetties: Mersing Jetty and Teluk Gading Jetty.
Tip:
- Buy your ferry tickets in advance as they can sell out or be more expensive during peak seasons.
Notes:
- Before travelling to Tioman Island, visitors have to pay a marine park conservation fee at the ferry terminal. It’s RM 5 (for Malaysians) and RM 30 (for non-Malaysians) each.
- Tioman ferry tickets can be bought online. You can also get them over-the-counter at the ferry terminal, but this is not encouraged.
- Cataferry only stops at Tekek, Genting, and Paya piers.
1. From Mersing Jetty
For those coming in from Singapore, Mersing Jetty is the nearest jetty to you. Here’s a quick look at how to get to Mersing from Singapore:
Step 1: Determine your travel date.
Step 2: Decide if you’re taking Bluewater or Cataferry. Buy your tickets through the official ferry operator website.
Step 3: On day of travel, arrive at Mersing Jetty by private taxi, car, or coach.
Step 4: Go to Mersing Harbour Centre to collect your boarding pass from the Bluewater or Cataferry ticketing counter.
Step 5: Pay the marine park conservation fee.
Step 6: Walk to Mersing Jetty’s ferry departure terminal (about 100m) and wait for the ferry.
Step 7: Board the ferry to Tioman!
Pros:
- Nearer to Singapore than Teluk Gading Jetty
- Has wide accommodation options in town for those staying overnight before their morning ferry ride
Cons:
- Waters here are more affected by tides, causing less reliable ferry departure schedule
- Very crowded during public holidays and long weekends
- Ferry rides are longer
Note:
- Boarding pass collection is compulsory to board the ferry. Ticket counters close 20 minutes before boarding (Bluewater) and 30 minutes before boarding (Cataferry).
Read also: Johor Airport To Mersing Jetty
2. From Teluk Gading Jetty
Previously known as Tanjung Gemok Jetty, Teluk Gading Jetty is another gateway to Tioman. For those coming from KL, this would be the nearest jetty to Tioman.
Teluk Gading Jetty also serves as an alternative jetty for Singaporeans if Mersing Jetty tickets are sold out. This is especially possible during public holidays in Singapore or JB!
Step 1: Decide your date of travel.
Step 2: Decide if you’re taking Bluewater or Cataferry. Buy your tickets through the official ferry operator website.
Step 3: On day of travel, arrive at Teluk Gading Jetty by private taxi, car, or coach.
Step 4: Collect your boarding pass from Bluewater or Cataferry ticketing counter.
Step 5: Pay the marine park conservation fee.
Step 6: Head to the ferry departure hall and wait for the ferry.
Step 7: Board the ferry!
Read also: Private Taxi From Singapore To Tioman
Pros:
- Less affected by tides than Mersing Jetty
- Less crowded than Mersing Jetty
- Has a shorter ferry ride to Tioman
Cons:
- Further away from Singapore
- Limited bus transport options
- Limited accommodation options for overnight stayers
Notes:
- Teluk Gading Jetty is located about 45 minutes away from Mersing Jetty.
- Boarding pass collection is compulsory to board the ferry. Ticket counters close 20 minutes before boarding (Bluewater) and 30 minutes before boarding (Cataferry).
