Redang Island Ferries: Your Guide to Jetties

Embarking on a journey to the stunning Redang Island is a highlight for many travellers visiting Malaysia. The gateway to this island paradise is typically via ferry, and understanding your departure point is crucial for a seamless experience. The two primary jetties serving Redang Island are Shahbandar Jetty and Merang Jetty, each offering a distinct starting point for your island adventure. This guide will delve into the specifics of each jetty, helping you choose the most convenient option and navigate the ferry services effectively.

Shahbandar Jetty: The Convenient City Access Point

Shahbandar Jetty in Kuala Terengganu is often the preferred choice for those arriving at the city's bus terminal or airport. Its proximity to urban amenities makes it an attractive option for travellers looking for ease of access. For those flying into Kuala Terengganu Airport, the Shahbandar jetty is approximately 12 kilometres away, a manageable 20-minute drive by car. If you're arriving by bus, the terminal is a mere 10-minute walk, or a quick taxi ride if you're laden with luggage. The jetty is conveniently located opposite the Tourist Information Centre and the Kuala Terengganu Post Office, making it easy to locate.

However, it's important to note a significant update from 2022: the Shahbandar jetty experienced temporary closure due to damage sustained during the monsoon season. Most ferry services were consequently relocated to Duyong Marina Jetty, situated about 7.5km further away. This relocation has impacted the accessibility and operational flow for travellers who previously relied on Shahbandar.

Parking at Shahbandar Jetty is quite limited, so if you are driving, be prepared to seek parking in the surrounding areas, which are generally accessible and affordable. The journey from Shahbandar Jetty to Redang Island is considerably longer, typically ranging from one hour and forty minutes to two hours, depending on sea conditions and the specific ferry service.

Shahbandar Ferry Services

Two main types of ferry arrangements are available from Shahbandar Jetty:

• Public Ferry: This service operates with a public ferry that departs every hour. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the designated counters within the jetty. Sejahtera Ferry Services Sdn Bhd, the company operating these public ferries, has a long-standing history of service in the region.
• Resort-Arranged Private Ferry: Many resorts offer their own private ferry services. It is highly recommended to arrange your passage with your resort in advance, as many packages include boat fare. Even when using a resort-arranged ferry, you will still need to check in at the designated ticket booth at the jetty.

Upon arrival at Redang Island, the ferry will typically dock at Redang Island Jetty, also known as Kampung Jetty, located in the island's main village. If your accommodation is on Long Beach or Pasir Panjang, you will likely need to transfer to a smaller shuttle boat to reach your specific resort. Resort staff are usually on hand to guide you through this transfer process.

Shahbandar Ferry Schedule (Pre-Relocation/General Information)

While services have been impacted by the closure, the historical schedule from Shahbandar Jetty was as follows:

Important Note: Always check with your resort for the most current departure schedules and boarding times, as these can change due to weather or operational reasons. Passengers are typically required to check in at least 30 minutes before departure.

Merang Jetty: The Faster, More Frequent Option

Merang Jetty, located approximately 30km north of Kuala Terengganu, offers a more direct and often faster route to Redang Island. Many travellers opt for Merang Jetty due to its shorter journey time, which typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes. This is largely because most resorts have their boats departing from Merang, and these departures are frequently included as part of accommodation packages.

Getting to Merang Jetty from the Kuala Terengganu bus terminal is straightforward. You can take the SP Bumi Bus, which runs hourly and costs around RM10. Alternatively, a taxi will cost approximately RM60 and take about 45 minutes. If you are driving, there is public parking available near the jetty, with charges around RM10 per day. It's advisable to confirm with your resort if this parking fee is included in your package.

Merang Jetty is equipped with basic facilities, including toilets and sheltered waiting areas, ensuring a comfortable waiting experience for passengers.

Merang Jetty to Redang: Journey Details

The trip from Merang Jetty to Redang Island is generally quicker and more frequent than from Shahbandar. This efficiency makes it a popular choice. It is essential to confirm your departure time and the type of ferryboat with your resort, especially if you are aiming for a direct resort boat. In cases where your resort's boat is unavailable, you may be directed to a public boat, but rest assured that your resort would have made prior arrangements with the boat operator, and no extra cost should be incurred.

Some resorts even have their own private piers with check-in counters located along the river, further streamlining the process for their guests.

Merang Ferry Schedule

Public ferries to Pulau Redang from Merang Jetty are operated by two main companies:

Al Ameen Boat Service offers multiple drop-off and pick-up points on Redang Island, including Laguna Jetty, Pelangi Jetty (Long Beach/Pasir Panjang), Teluk Kalong Jetty, and Village Jetty (Kampung Jetty). Vigourmarine Boat Services, however, typically only has one drop-off point: the Redang Island Jetty (Kampung Jetty).

Duyong Marina Jetty: The Current Hub

Following the temporary closure of Shahbandar Jetty, Duyong Marina Jetty has become the primary departure point for many ferry services. Located within Exhibition Marina Kuala Terengganu, it is approximately 7.5km from the original Shahbandar Jetty, a 15-minute drive. For those driving, searching for 'Exhibition Marina Kuala Terengganu' on Waze is recommended.

For travellers arriving at the MBKT Bus Terminal, reaching Duyong Marina Jetty might require arranging separate land transfers. Several resorts, including Laguna Redang Resort, Redang Bay Resort, Redang Reef Resort, and Coral Redang Resort, have their private ferries departing from this location.

Public ferry services are also available from Duyong Marina Jetty, with SFS Travel and Tours Sdn Bhd (formerly Sejahtera Ferry Services) operating a daily ferry at 10:30 AM. It's always advisable to check with the operator for any schedule changes.

The jetty is a hub for various marine transportation, and while operations are consolidating, it may initially appear less organised than the previously established Shahbandar Jetty.

Duyong Marina Ferry Schedule

Ferry Ticket Prices and Fees

The ferry fee structure is as follows:

Public Ferry Ticket Prices (One Way / Return)

It's important to note that passengers using Duyong Marina Jetty are subject to an additional Passenger Service Fee: RM 7 for adults and RM 4 for students. Children below 12 are exempt from this surcharge. These fees are added to the base ferry fare.

Marine Park Conservation Fees

A mandatory Marine Park Conservation fee must be paid at the jetty before boarding. These fees are:

These fees apply regardless of whether you are travelling on a public or private ferry. It is advisable to keep both your ferry and marine park tickets for potential inspection during your stay on the island.

Tips for a Smooth Ferry Journey

• Book in Advance: Especially during peak season, ferry tickets can sell out quickly. Booking online in advance and printing your e-ticket is highly recommended.
• Confirm Departure Times: Ferry schedules can change due to weather or operational issues. Always double-check with your resort or the ferry operator for the latest timings.
• Check-in Early: Aim to arrive at the jetty at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure for check-in.
• Resort Packages: If your resort package includes ferry transfers, confirm the departure jetty and timings with them.
• Weather Awareness: Be prepared for potential delays or cancellations during bad weather, especially during the monsoon season.
• No Pets Allowed: Pets are not permitted on the ferries.
• Accessibility: Ferry vehicles are not wheelchair accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Shahbandar jetty from Kuala Terengganu airport?

Shahbandar Jetty is approximately 12 kilometres from Kuala Terengganu Airport, a drive of about 20 minutes.

Which jetty is faster to Redang Island?

Merang Jetty generally offers a faster journey to Redang Island, taking approximately 30 to 45 minutes, compared to the 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours from Shahbandar (or Duyong Marina) Jetty.

Can I buy ferry tickets at the jetty?

Yes, you can buy public ferry tickets at the designated counters at the jetties. However, booking online in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

What are the main differences between Shahbandar and Merang Jetties?

Shahbandar Jetty is closer to Kuala Terengganu city centre and the airport, making it convenient for those arriving by air or bus. Merang Jetty is further north but offers a shorter and more frequent ferry journey to Redang. Note that Shahbandar Jetty has faced temporary closures, with services often rerouted to Duyong Marina Jetty.

Do I need to pay a conservation fee for Redang Island?

Yes, a mandatory Marine Park Conservation fee must be paid at the jetty by all visitors, regardless of the jetty used or whether you are on a public or private ferry.

Are there direct resort ferries from Kuala Terengganu?

Yes, many resorts offer private ferry services directly from either Merang Jetty or, historically, Shahbandar Jetty, and more recently from Duyong Marina Jetty. It is best to confirm with your chosen resort.