Craving a quick island escape? Just a short hop across the strait from Johor lies Batam, an Indonesian gem that offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and culinary delights. Whether you are planning a weekend of spa treatments or a seafood feast, the journey is simple. To get started, you can book ferry tickets to Batam from Johor on Easybook and secure your seat on one of the many daily departures.
Planning a cross-border trip can sometimes feel daunting, but the route between Johor and Batam is well-established and efficient. With the right information and a reliable booking platform, you can swap the city traffic for ocean breezes in under three hours. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about securing your tickets, what to expect from the journey, and why Batam should be next on your travel list.
Why Batam is the perfect short trip
Batam has long been a favourite destination for Malaysians and Singaporeans, and for good reason. It offers a change of pace and scenery without the need for long-haul flights or expensive travel packages. Here is why you should consider packing your bags for this Indonesian island.
Affordable luxury and relaxation
One of the primary draws of Batam is its abundance of affordable wellness centres. You can indulge in a traditional Balinese massage, a reflexology session, or a full spa package for a fraction of the cost you might pay back home. It is the ideal way to unwind after a busy work week.
A paradise for foodies
If you love fresh seafood, Batam is a culinary playground. The island is famous for its ‘kelong’ style seafood restaurants—eateries built on stilts over the water. Here, you can enjoy chilli crab, black pepper prawns, and gonggong (sea snails) caught fresh from the ocean. Beyond seafood, the local layer cake, known as kueh lapis, is a legendary treat that many travellers buy in bulk to bring home.
Shopping and entertainment
For those who prefer retail therapy, Batam offers several large shopping complexes like Grand Batam Mall and Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall. You can find everything from branded goods and electronics to local handicrafts and batik. The exchange rate often makes shopping here a budget-friendly experience.
Why use Easybook for your journey?
When it comes to cross-border sea travel, reliability is key. Easybook has established itself as a leading platform for transport bookings across Southeast Asia. Rather than turning up at the jetty and hoping for the best, booking online offers peace of mind.
The platform aggregates various ferry operators, giving you a clear view of schedules and pricing. You can compare options from reputable companies such as Citra Indomas, Bistari Gemilang, Dolphin Fast Ferry, and Indomas Ferry all in one place. With Easybook, you avoid the hassle of physical queues and the risk of sold-out tickets, particularly during weekends and public holidays.
Step-by-step: Booking your ferry from Johor to Batam
Securing your spot on the ferry is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth booking experience on Easybook.
1. Search for your route
Navigate to the Easybook ferry booking page. In the ‘From’ field, select Johor (specifically Stulang Laut, also known as Berjaya Waterfront/The Zon Ferry Terminal, which is the main departure point). In the ‘To’ field, select Batam (usually Batam Centre). Select your preferred departure and return dates.
2. Compare schedules and operators
Once you hit search, you will see a list of available trips. The ferries generally operate frequently, with the first ferry often departing as early as 07:15 and the last one around 18:00.
- Duration: The trip typically takes between 1 hour 55 minutes to 2 hours 12 minutes.
- Price: Fares generally start from RM 100.00.
Take a moment to compare the departure times against your travel itinerary. If you are planning a day trip, an early morning departure gives you the most time to explore.
3. Select your preferred trip
Click on the ‘Select’ button next to the time and operator that suits you best. You will then be prompted to choose your specific seats (if applicable) and enter the number of passengers.
4. Enter passenger details
This is a crucial step. You will need to enter your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport. This includes your full name, passport number, and expiry date. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your date of travel, as this is a strict requirement for entry into Indonesia.
5. Secure payment and confirmation
Review your booking summary to ensure dates and times are correct. Proceed to payment using one of the secure methods available. Once the transaction is complete, you will receive an order summary and your e-ticket via email. It is advisable to print this out or have it readily available on your phone when you arrive at the terminal.
Tips for a smooth ferry trip
Booking the ticket is the easy part; ensuring the journey goes smoothly requires a little preparation. Here are some pro tips for your voyage from Stulang Laut to Batam.
Arrive early
International ferry travel involves customs and immigration clearance on both sides. It is highly recommended that you arrive at the Stulang Laut Ferry Terminal at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure. This gives you ample time to collect boarding passes (if required to exchange your e-ticket), check in luggage, and clear Malaysian immigration.
Prepare for the seas
While the Strait of Johor is generally calm, weather conditions can change. If you are prone to motion sickness, it is wise to take seasickness medication 30 minutes before boarding. Sit towards the back of the ferry on the lower deck for the most stable ride.
Check visa requirements
While many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry into Batam for short visits, it is always your responsibility to check the latest visa requirements for your specific passport before you travel.
Connectivity
Batam is part of Indonesia, so your Malaysian mobile data plan may not work unless you have activated roaming. Alternatively, you can easily purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at the Batam Centre terminal to stay connected.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the ferry take?
The journey from Johor (Stulang Laut) to Batam typically takes between 1 hour 55 minutes and 2 hours 12 minutes, depending on the operator and sea conditions.
Which terminal should I go to in Johor?
Most ferries to Batam depart from the Stulang Laut Ferry Terminal (located at Berjaya Waterfront). Always check your ticket confirmation to be certain.
How much does a ticket cost?
One-way tickets generally start from RM 100.00. Prices can vary slightly depending on the operator and the season.
Can I book a return ticket?
Yes, booking a return trip is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot for the journey home, especially on Sunday evenings when traffic is high.
Start your island adventure
A trip to Batam is the accessible escape that offers culture, relaxation, and excitement just a short boat ride away. By planning ahead and securing your transport online, you remove the stress of travel logistics, leaving you more time to focus on which seafood restaurant to try first.
Don’t leave your weekend plans to chance. Visit Easybook today to check schedules and lock in your preferred travel times for a seamless holiday experience.