Ferry Ride: Stulang Laut-Batam

The ferry ride from Stulang Laut to Batam Island in Indonesia is fun and rewarding as one could practically see 3 countries en route the 1 hour and 40 minutes journey.

This is how the interior of a typical passenger boat to Batam Island and vice versa. The ticket cost RM 79 (including the RM13 tax) from Stulang Laut to Batam Centre. One can opt for a open return ticket for RM44 but be prepared to pay another Rp. 105, 000 tax at Batam Centre when confirming the ticket.

All the passenger boats are air conditioned and comfortable. There ain't any entertainment onboard to keep the passengers occupied.

At the beginning of the journey from Stulang Laut, Johor Bahru city and Singapore's Woodland CIQ complex is clearly visible.

The power plant, which is on Singapore island, just opposite the Stulang Laut Ferry Terminal.

At one point, Changi Airport control tower is visible. The Singapore Central Business District and the new Marina Bay Sands also can be seen along the ferry ride.

Batam Island, just 20km at the closest point was once a jungle covered island but things have changed dramatically in the last decade as Singapore's labour shortage has caused it to look to the surrounding areas for manufacturing bases.

Coastarina, near Batam Center Ferry Terminal is a family friendly place for fun and entertainment. The large ferris wheel is the most prominent structure here. This complex appear to be incomplete and work is still on progress.

The new Harris Hotel which is located just next to Batam Center, one of the main ferry terminal on the island.

Batam Center looks like an airport cum shopping complex from the inside with a few duty free shops and cafes. Taxis are readily available outside the main entrance. Not really much to do and see around the complex as compare to the Zon in Stulang Laut.