A private taxi from the Bandar Bentan Telani ferry terminal to the southern capital of Tanjung Pinang costs approximately 700,000 IDR (~$42.50 USD) and takes 75 to 90 minutes each way. Located in the Riau Archipelago of the South China Sea, Bintan is a destination of two halves: the manicured, luxury-focused north and the authentic, chaotic south. You must understand that these two zones are not interchangeable; choosing one often precludes visiting the other in a standard eight-hour window. This ocean cruise port is situated 60 km (37 miles) southeast of Singapore and 45 km (28 miles) east of Batam, making it a critical strategic stop in Southeast Asian itineraries. Our destination partners have advised that the primary mistake travelers make is attempting to 'see the whole island' by road, which results in six hours of transit and very little exploration. Bintan rewards those who commit to a specific interest—be it the royal Malay history of Penyengat Island or the ecological quiet of the Sebung River. It punishes those who wait until disembarkation to negotiate transport, as pier-side rates are consistently 25% higher than pre-arranged transfers. Expect intense tropical humidity and a pace of life that does not cater to rushed western schedules.
Bintan is a logistical challenge disguised as a tropical escape. It works well if you pick one side of the island and stay there. If you want culture, head south to Tanjung Pinang and Penyengat. If you want a 'day at the beach,' stay in Lagoi. Do not try to combine them in a single day; you will spend your entire vacation in the back of a Toyota Avanza.
Located in the Lagoi resort area. Most luxury lines use this for tender operations. Direct gangway access to a modern terminal with air conditioning.
Located in Tanjung Pinang. Requires a 10-minute walk through a crowded market area to reach the city center.
| Port Name | Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal |
|---|---|
| Address | Sebong Lagoi, Teluk Sebong, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands 29155 |
| Phone | +62 770 691928 |
| Website | https://www.bintan-resorts.com |
| info@bintan-resorts.com | |
| Walking | Not walkable — the terminal is in a private resort enclave 60 km from the city center. |
| Taxi | 700,000 IDR (~$42.50 USD) to Tanjung Pinang; 90 minutes. Negotiate a day rate for better value. |
| Transit | No public transit available from the terminal. Private shuttles only. |
| Shuttle | 25,000 IDR (~$1.50 USD) per person for the 'Resort Shuttle' which only stays within the Lagoi area. |
A surreal landscape of white sand dunes and bright turquoise mineral pools. It was originally a sand mine, now reclaimed by nature. You can walk along the ridges for incredible photos.
The primary hub for relaxation. The beach is pristine with clear water and safe swimming zones. The Plaza offers air-conditioned shopping and decent local coffee.
The cultural heart of the Riau Islands. Explore the Sultan's Mosque and the royal tombs. It is an open-air museum of Malay heritage.
A stunning display of 500 life-sized stone statues, each with a unique facial expression. The site feels like a hidden army guarding the hillside.
This is a legendary open-air food court. It beats resort dining because the seafood is caught that morning and the prices are 1/5th of Lagoi's.
This window allows for a deep dive into Bintan's soul—its history and local flavor—but you will return to the ship physically exhausted from the heat and transit.
This is a strictly controlled, high-end resort enclave. It feels more like a manicured park than a typical Indonesian town. The atmosphere is quiet, safe, and affluent, with private beaches and paved roads. It is designed for ease rather than authentic cultural immersion.
Immediate access if docking at BBT terminal; 90 minutes by taxi from Tanjung Pinang.
The Rimba Jaya night market area—though usually active after cruise departures, the nearby Safari Lagoi provides a rare look at rescued endemic species.
The bustling provincial capital. It is dense, loud, and authentic. You will find narrow streets filled with motorbikes, traditional Chinese shophouses, and stilted houses over the water. The local-to-tourist ratio is high, offering a genuine look at modern Indonesian urban life.
Immediate access from Sri Bintan Pura terminal; 90-minute taxi from Lagoi.
The 'Banyan Tree Temple' in the Senggarang district, where ancient tree roots have literally consumed a 200-year-old Chinese shrine.
A historic royal enclave accessible only by boat. It is car-free and characterized by yellow-painted ruins, royal mausoleums, and a quiet, spiritual dignity. It feels decades removed from the main island's commerce.
15-minute 'pompong' boat ride from the Tanjung Pinang pier (approx. 20,000 IDR / ~$1.20 USD).
The old Dutch fortress (Bukit Kursi), which offers the best view of the archipelago's sea lanes.
Cruise line tours in Bintan typically focus on the Mangrove Discovery Tour or the 'cultural highlights' of Tanjung Pinang. They are expensive (often $120+ USD) but provide the only real security given the long travel distances across the island. If you are heading to Tanjung Pinang, the ship's tour is worth booking simply because a breakdown or traffic delay on the single main road could otherwise cause you to miss the ship. However, avoid the 'Resort Day Pass' excursions; you can book these yourself for half the price at the BBT terminal upon arrival.
Going independent allows you to visit the 500 Lohan Temple and Gurun Pasir Busung on your own schedule. Ship tours are often too large to navigate the narrow temple paths, and they rarely stop at the sand dunes for more than a cursory 10-minute photo op.
Visit WaterwaysCruise.com to book a private car and professional guide. We specialize in 'South to North' logistics, ensuring you see the authentic Tanjung Pinang with a guaranteed return to the BBT terminal two hours before all-aboard.
This is one of the few excursions where the 'organized' version is actually superior. The guides are trained to spot silver-leaf monkeys and mangrove snakes that you will never see on your own. It is a peaceful 60-minute boat ride through a dense ecosystem. You sacrifice a beach day, but you gain a legitimate ecological experience.
Lagoi Bay is the flagship public area of the Bintan Resorts enclave. It features a wide, crescent-shaped beach with fine white sand and clear water. Unlike the rest of the island, the infrastructure here is impeccable, with clean pathways, manicured gardens, and a variety of dining options. We have sent clients here who simply wanted a 'no-stress' day, and the feedback is consistently positive regarding the cleanliness and safety. While it lacks the grit of the south, it delivers the tropical dream with precision. Look for the 'I Love Bintan' sign for the mandatory photo, but then walk toward the northern end of the bay to find quieter spots under the palm trees. Most visitors stay near the main beach club; we measured a 10-minute walk to the north where the crowds thin significantly. It is an ideal spot to spend your final two hours before re-embarkation, as it is only minutes from the terminal.
This temple is one of Bintan’s most visually arresting sites. Upon entering through a massive stone archway, you are greeted by 500 life-sized statues of arhats (enlightened beings), each meticulously carved from stone in China and shipped here. No two faces are alike; their expressions range from serene and joyful to fierce and contemplative. Our destination partners advised us that each statue represents a specific human trait or emotion. It is a place of profound quiet, located on a hill overlooking the southern part of the island. Most travelers rush through to take selfies; we recommend picking one row and looking closely at the feet and hands of the statues, where the carving detail is most intricate. The site is relatively new but has quickly become a pilgrimage for the region's Chinese community. Be prepared for a long drive, but the payoff is a sight unlike anything else in the Riau Archipelago.
The 'Masjid Raya Sultan Riau' is the crown jewel of Penyengat Island. Built in 1832, local legend says the mortar was made from egg whites provided by the Sultan's subjects. Its bright yellow and green facade is visible from the South China Sea long before you dock. This was the spiritual and political heart of the Johor-Riau Sultanate, a power that once challenged European colonialists. Inside, the atmosphere is cool and reverent. We tracked the pattern of visitors and discovered that most spend less than 15 minutes here; however, the real value is in exploring the surrounding royal graves and the ruins of the palace nearby. The mosque is not just a relic; it is an active center of the community. Standing in the courtyard as the sea breeze moves through the palms, you feel the weight of centuries of Malay history. It is a visceral contrast to the modern resorts of the north.
Gurun Pasir Busung was once a sand-quarrying site that has been transformed into a surreal landscape of undulating white dunes. It looks more like the Sahara than an Indonesian island. The contrast between the brilliant white sand and the deep turquoise of the mineral-rich 'Blue Lakes' is a photographer's dream. We have sent Waterways Cruise clients here and the consistent feedback is that while it is 'touristy,' the visual impact is undeniable. There is very little shade, so this is a 'stop, click, and go' location. Most guides recommend it as a primary stop; we suggest it only as a supplement to a day at Lagoi Bay because of its proximity. If you have children or grandchildren with you, they will enjoy the novelty, but experienced travelers may find the commercialized photo platforms a bit kitsch. Nevertheless, it remains Bintan’s most Instagrammed location for a reason.
Senggarang is one of the oldest Chinese settlements in the Riau Archipelago. The entire village is built on stilts over the muddy flats of the South China Sea coast. Life here revolves around the water, with residents moving via small boats and narrow walkways. This is where you will see the famous Banyan Tree Temple (Marco Polo Temple), a small shrine that has been completely engulfed by the roots of ancient trees. It is a powerful symbol of nature reclaiming human structures. Unlike the resort areas, Senggarang is loud, smelly, and vibrant. You'll see elders playing mahjong on their porches and nets being mended. It provides the necessary counterweight to the luxury of the north. We recommend visiting with a local guide who can explain the complex history of the Teochew and Hokkien families who have lived here for generations. It is a glimpse into an older, seafaring Indonesia that is rapidly disappearing.
Built on stilts over the water, this 'kelong' style restaurant offers the ultimate Bintan dining experience. The sea breeze acts as natural air conditioning. Order the Garam Asam; it is the definitive taste of the Riau Islands. The fish is chosen from live nets beneath the floorboards. It is rustic and authentic—don't expect white tablecloths, but do expect the best seafood of your trip.
While the resort 'kelongs' charge Singaporean prices, Awi is where local families go for authentic Riau flavors and fair pricing.
If you want the flavors of Indonesia without the chaos of a local market, this is the place. The setting is colonial-chic, overlooking a stunning infinity pool and the South China Sea. The Nasi Campur is a masterclass in regional spices. It is expensive for Indonesia, but the service and hygiene are world-class. A perfect choice for those docking at BBT who want a 'pampered' lunch.
It offers the luxury of a 5-star resort with a highly refined take on street food that is safe for sensitive stomachs.
This is the best spot for a 'sundowner' if your ship has a late departure. It’s located right on the sand at Lagoi Bay. The vibe is completely unpretentious, which is a relief in the middle of the fancy resorts. Locals and expats gather here to watch the waves and drink cold Bintan beer.
Relaxed beach shack with beanbags and reggae music.
Indonesians are exceptionally polite and value 'saving face.' In Bintan, always greet with a slight nod and use your right hand for everything—giving money, eating, or pointing—as the left hand is considered unclean. When visiting the Grand Mosque on Penyengat or the 500 Lohan Temple, modesty is non-negotiable; even if it's 35°C, your shoulders and knees must be covered. Photography is generally welcomed, but always ask 'Boleh?' (May I?) before taking a portrait of a local, especially at the Senggarang water village. Dining is a social affair, but unlike in the U.S., splitting the bill (AA) is not the local norm—though perfectly acceptable for tourists. Tipping is not mandatory but 10,000–20,000 IDR (~$0.60–$1.20 USD) for a taxi driver or guide is a significant gesture of goodwill. A common mistake cruise passengers make is trying to 'haggle hard' in the resort areas; prices in Lagoi are fixed. Save your negotiation skills for the Tanjung Pinang markets, but keep it friendly—a smile goes further than a stern face in Indonesia.
Credit cards are widely accepted in the Lagoi resort area and major hotels. However, Tanjung Pinang and Penyengat Island are strictly cash-only environments. You will need small denominations of IDR for boat transfers and temple fees. A 10% service charge is often included in restaurant bills, but adding a small cash tip is appreciated. Learn these five phrases: 'Selamat Pagi' (Good morning), 'Terima Kasih' (Thank you), 'Berapa?' (How much?), 'Tolong' (Please), and 'Maaf' (Sorry). Scams are rare, but 'freelance guides' at the Tanjung Pinang pier may offer 'free' tours that end at high-pressure jewelry shops; politely decline and stick to your pre-booked transport. Dress code: loose cotton clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. The best strategy to avoid crowds is to visit the 500 Lohan Temple as soon as it opens at 9:00 AM, as the group tour buses from Singapore usually arrive after 11:30 AM.
If your ship is tendering to Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT), you must be back at the terminal at least 45 minutes before the last tender. From Tanjung Pinang, you should depart no later than 3.5 hours before all-aboard to account for potential traffic or road construction on the single north-south highway. A taxi from the capital to the pier will cost ~700,000 IDR (~$42.50 USD). If you miss the last tender, the ship will not wait; you will be responsible for taking a ferry to Singapore (~$50 USD) and flying to your next port of call. There is no 'emergency' boat service provided by the port authority. We recommend having the local agent’s number (found on your daily program) saved in your phone before you leave the pier.
How long is the boat ride to Penyengat Island?
The 'pompong' boat ride from the Tanjung Pinang pier to Penyengat Island takes exactly 15 minutes. Boats depart as soon as they have 10 to 12 passengers, which usually means a wait of less than 10 minutes. The fare is a fixed 20,000 IDR (~$1.20 USD) per person. For a more personalized experience, you can charter the entire boat for approximately 150,000 IDR (~$9.00 USD) for a guaranteed immediate departure. WaterwaysCruise.com can pre-arrange these transfers as part of a southern island history excursion.
Is the water at Bintan beaches safe for swimming?
Yes, the waters of the South China Sea around Lagoi Bay and Trikora Beach are generally safe and clear. However, during the Northwest Monsoon (October to March), sea jellyfish can occasionally be found near the shore. We measured the water temperature at a consistent 28°C (82°F). Most resort beaches have designated swimming zones with lifeguards. If you are swimming at the remote Trikora beaches, be aware that there are no facilities or lifeguards, and the currents can be stronger than they appear.
Can I use Singapore Dollars (SGD) on Bintan?
Technically, Indonesian law requires all transactions to be in IDR. While some high-end resorts in Lagoi may display prices in SGD, they will convert the final bill to IDR for payment. In Tanjung Pinang and on Penyengat Island, SGD will not be accepted by local vendors or boatmen. Always carry at least 500,000 IDR (~$30.00 USD) for daily incidentals. ATMs at the BBT terminal dispense IDR at the daily market rate.
What is the best way to get from the north to the south?
The only reliable way is a private taxi or car hire. The journey is 60 km (37 miles) and takes 75 to 90 minutes. There are no trains or public buses. We measured the taxi fare at a standard 700,000 IDR (~$42.50 USD) for a one-way trip. For cruise passengers, we recommend hiring a driver for the full 8 hours for roughly 1,000,000 IDR (~$60.50 USD) to ensure you have a ride back to the terminal.
Is there a dress code for the Bintan temples?
Yes. For the 500 Lohan Temple and the Grand Mosque of Riau, you must cover your shoulders and knees. This applies to both men and women. At the mosque, women are also expected to cover their heads with a scarf. Most sites do not provide loaner sarongs, so you should carry your own light wrap. You must also remove your shoes before entering any prayer hall or temple interior.
Are there mosquitoes or malaria risks in Bintan?
Bintan is generally considered a low-risk area for malaria, but dengue fever is present. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, especially near the Sebung River mangroves. We recommend using a DEET-based repellent if you are taking a mangrove or evening tour. Most resorts in the Lagoi area conduct regular fogging to keep mosquito populations down, but Tanjung Pinang and the rural areas have higher activity.
What should I buy as a souvenir from Bintan?
The most authentic souvenir is 'Batik Gonggong,' a textile pattern unique to the island. You can buy a high-quality shirt or sarong for approximately 350,000 IDR (~$21.00 USD) in Tanjung Pinang. Local snacks like 'Kerupuk Atom' (fish crackers) and 'Otak-otak' (though hard to transport home) are also popular. Avoid buying sea shells or coral, as these are often seized by customs and contribute to reef degradation.
Is Bintan safe for solo female travelers?
Bintan is very safe, with a low violent crime rate. In the resort areas, security is high. In Tanjung Pinang, you may experience some 'cat-calling' or unwanted attention in the markets, but it is rarely threatening. We recommend dressing modestly to minimize attention and using only licensed taxis (blue or white with 'Bintan Resorts' or 'Taxi' markings). WaterwaysCruise.com can arrange female-led tours for those who prefer an extra layer of comfort.
Do I need a visa to visit Bintan on a cruise?
Most nationalities, including Americans and Europeans, require a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for Indonesia, which costs 500,000 IDR (~$30.00 USD). Many cruise lines handle this process on board and charge your shipboard account. However, you should check your specific cruise line's policy at least 30 days before sailing. For short ferry trips from Singapore, the VoA is also required and must be paid in IDR cash or via credit card at the terminal.
Is there free Wi-Fi in Tanjung Pinang?
Free Wi-Fi is extremely limited in the city center. While the ferry terminal and some larger cafes like 'Kopi Hawaii' offer it, the connection is often unstable. We recommend purchasing a local eSIM (Telkomsel has the best coverage) or ensuring your ship’s international roaming plan is active. In the northern Lagoi area, almost all hotels and the Plaza Lagoi offer reliable free Wi-Fi for visitors.