Image by Robert Waghorn from Pixabay
If there’s one coastal escape that’s been quietly making waves in Southeast Asia, it’s Desaru — a seaside gem on Malaysia’s east coast that’s fast becoming Singapore’s favorite weekend getaway. While most travelers still plan long road trips or bus rides through Johor Bahru, savvy locals have discovered a far quicker way to get there — by ferry.
Yes, instead of spending 4–5 hours driving, you can now take a ferry from Singapore to Desaru in under 90 minutes. The two main routes — the Singapore to Desaru ferry and the Tanah Merah to Desaru connection — have become the go-to shortcuts for travelers craving sand and sea without the traffic.
Desaru: Malaysia’s Underrated Beachfront Paradise
Desaru has evolved from a sleepy beach town into a full-fledged resort destination. With turquoise waters, modern resorts like The Westin and Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, and attractions such as the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, this destination has found its place on the regional travel map.
According to Malaysia Tourism Board data (2024), Desaru’s visitor numbers have risen by nearly 45% since 2022, largely due to improved ferry connectivity from Singapore.
The Two Ferry Routes That Locals Swear By
Travelers have two solid ferry options when planning a quick trip to Desaru — both operated under trusted maritime networks and available on redBus platforms.
| Ferry Route | Operator | Duration | Frequency |
| Singapore (Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal) → Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal | BatamFast Ferry | 90 mins | 1–2 trips/day (Fri–Sun) |
| Desaru → Singapore (Tanah Merah Return) | BatamFast Ferry | 90 mins | 1–2 trips/day |
Data compiled from redBus as of Q3 2025.
Both routes offer comfortable seating, onboard refreshments, and sea views, making the journey feel like part of the holiday itself.
Terminal Details You Should Know Before Boarding
Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (Singapore)
Located just 15 minutes from Changi Airport, this terminal is easily accessible via taxi or bus. It features duty-free outlets, cafes, and comfortable waiting areas. Make sure to arrive at least 60 minutes before departure for check-in and immigration clearance.
Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal (Malaysia)
Opened in 2022, this terminal sits just 10 minutes from the Desaru resort strip. It’s well connected by shuttle buses to hotels and attractions along the coast.
Travel tip: You can book both your ferry and shuttle tickets in one go on redBus to avoid last-minute hassles.
Why Locals Prefer the Ferry Over the Drive
| Travel Option | Average Duration | Experience |
| Car via Johor Bahru | 4–5 hours | Long, tiring, border queues |
| Bus via JB Sentral | 5–6 hours | Budget-friendly but slow |
| Ferry (Tanah Merah – Desaru) | 90 mins | Fast, scenic, comfortable |
According to redBus (2025 data), ferry bookings to Desaru increased by 58% year-on-year, proving it’s now the preferred route for quick coastal getaways. Locals have long kept the Tanah Merah to Desaru ferry secret because it dramatically reduces travel time while adding scenic charm to the journey.
Things to Do in Desaru
Once you arrive, there’s plenty to keep you busy:
- Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark – One of Southeast Asia’s largest, featuring a record-breaking wave pool.
- Desaru Beach – Perfect for swimming, jet-skiing, or simply soaking in the calm.
- Desaru Ostrich Farm – A fun stop for families with over 200 ostriches.
- The Els Club Desaru Coast – Designed by golf legend Ernie Els, ideal for golf enthusiasts.
- Seafood by the Shore – Don’t miss the fresh crab and butter prawns at local restaurants near Sungai Rengit.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Desaru?
Desaru enjoys tropical weather year-round, but the best months are March to October, when the seas are calm, and rainfall is minimal. Avoid the monsoon season (November to February) if you want uninterrupted beach days.
Final Word: The Shortcut You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or a quick family break, this route lets you swap cityscapes for sea breeze in under two hours — all thanks to redBus’s smooth booking and verified schedules.
The next time wanderlust hits, skip the traffic jams and take the sea route — Desaru’s golden sands are just a ferry ride away.
