By The Diary desk · Last verified 28 September 2026

For Pulau Ubin, take a bumboat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. It costs S$4 each way, plus S$2 for a bicycle, and the crossing takes about ten minutes. Boats run from as early as 6am to 7pm, leaving when 9 to 12 passengers are aboard. For the Southern Islands, a ferry from Marina South Pier does a round trip to St John’s, Lazarus and Kusu for S$15 an adult and S$12 a child.

Quick facts

• Ubin: S$4 each way, S$2 for a bike, about ten minutes.
• Ubin boats have no timetable; they leave when full.
• Ubin boats run from about 6am to 7pm.
• Southern Islands: S$15 adult return, S$12 for children aged 1 to 12.
• Southern Islands ferries run to a schedule that differs on weekdays and weekends.
• Bad weather can cancel sailings.

How does the Ubin bumboat work?

There’s no timetable: boats leave when 9 to 12 passengers are aboard, and you pay the boatman on board. If you’d rather not wait, pay for the empty seats; the whole boat is S$36. If you plan to leave the island after 6pm, arrange it with a boat operator beforehand. If no boat turns up for your return, call the NParks hotline on 1800-471 7300.

What should I know on Ubin?

Bring cash, plenty of water and sun protection. Bikes can be hired near the jetty. The old quarries look inviting, but they are deep and cold, and swimming in them is dangerous: don’t.

How do the Southern Islands ferries work?

Ferries leave from Marina South Pier. The round trip covers St John’s, from which you can walk across the causeway to Lazarus, and Kusu, with its Da Bo Gong temple. Tickets are S$15 for adults and S$12 for children aged 1 to 12. Departure times differ on weekdays and weekends, and very bad weather can cancel sailings.

What about the Kusu pilgrimage?

During the annual pilgrimage season, around October, regular ferry tickets have in past years been valid for St John’s only. If you’re planning a trip in October or early November, check before you go.

What to bring

Water, food, sun protection, a bag for your rubbish, and cash for Ubin. Facilities on the islands are basic.

The WahLiao Verdict

Ubin is the cheaper day and the bicycle island; the Southern Islands are the quieter swim. Either way, check the last boat back before you plan anything else.

Questions people ask

Can I take my bike to Ubin?

Yes, for an extra S$2 each way.

Is there a timetable to Ubin?

No; boats leave when they’re full.

Can I buy the Southern Islands ferry online?

Yes, through ticketing sites, or at the pier.

What if I miss the last boat back from Ubin?

Call the NParks hotline for help.

Sources: NParks, Pulau Ubin directions and map; Singapore Island Cruise ticket listing (2026); RailTravel Station on the Ubin bumboat and the Southern Islands ferry; Klook listing on Kusu pilgrimage season arrangements.

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