Melaka International Ferry Terminal Jetty
Introduction
The Melaka International Ferry Terminal Jetty, located in the historic state of Melaka, is one of Malaysia’s key maritime gateways connecting the country to nearby destinations such as Dumai and Bengkalis in Indonesia. The terminal is not only a vital link for international travelers but also a scenic coastal point for visitors exploring Melaka’s heritage city and waterfront attractions. Known for its efficiency, cleanliness, and accessibility, it offers a smooth transit experience for both locals and tourists.
Location Details
- Address: Jalan Syed Abdul Aziz, Bandar Hilir, 75000 Melaka, Malaysia
- Coordinates: 2.1843° N, 102.2512° E
- Google Maps: Melaka International Ferry Terminal
Situated near Mahkota Parade, Dataran Pahlawan Mall, and Melaka Megamall, the terminal is easily reachable from the city centre and major tourist sites.
How to Get There
From Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)
- By Bus: Direct buses from KLIA to Melaka Sentral (approx. 2.5 hours), followed by a short 15-minute taxi or Grab ride to the ferry terminal.
- By Car: Approximately 1.5–2 hours via North–South Expressway (E2).
- By Taxi/Grab: Estimated fare RM180–RM250 from KLIA.
From Melaka Sentral
- Taxi/Grab: Around 15 minutes, RM15–RM25.
- Local Bus: Take Panorama Melaka Bus (Route 17) towards Bandar Hilir and stop near Mahkota Parade.
From Singapore
- By Bus: 4–5 hours to Melaka Sentral; then 15 minutes by taxi to the ferry terminal.
- By Car: 3.5–4 hours via the North–South Expressway (E2).
Ferry Routes & Destinations
| Destination | Operator | Duration | Frequency | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dumai, Indonesia | Indomal Express | 2.5 hours | Daily | Popular route for cross-border travel |
| Bengkalis, Indonesia | Marvelous Ferry | 3 hours | Alternate days | Subject to weather conditions |
| Batam (via Dumai) | Indirect connection | 5–6 hours | Limited | Transit required at Dumai |
Ticket Prices (Approximate, One-Way)
| Route | Adult Fare (RM) | Child Fare (RM) | Terminal Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melaka – Dumai | 120 | 80 | RM5 |
| Melaka – Bengkalis | 130 | 90 | RM5 |
| Return Ticket (Melaka–Dumai–Melaka) | 220 | 150 | RM10 |
Prices may vary depending on the operator and season.
Operating Hours & Schedules
- Terminal Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily)
- Ferry Check-in: At least 90 minutes before departure
- Ticket Counters: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Facilities at the Terminal
The Melaka International Ferry Terminal offers modern amenities designed for comfort and convenience:
- Waiting Lounge: Air-conditioned with ample seating
- Cafeteria & Mini Restaurants: Local snacks and light meals available
- Restrooms & Shower Facilities: Clean and well-maintained
- Prayer Rooms (Surau): Separate for men and women
- ATM Machines & Currency Exchange: Available inside the terminal building
- Duty-Free Shop: Offers beverages, snacks, and travel essentials
- Wi-Fi Access: Free public Wi-Fi in designated zones
- Luggage Services: Porter and baggage counters available
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mahkota Parade | 500 m | Major shopping mall with retail outlets and food courts |
| Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall | 600 m | Popular mall combining heritage with modern architecture |
| A Famosa Fort | 1 km | Iconic Portuguese fortress dating back to the 16th century |
| St. Paul’s Hill | 1.2 km | Historical site offering panoramic city and coastal views |
| Maritime Museum | 1 km | Replica of Flor de la Mar ship showcasing Melaka’s maritime history |
Tips for International Travelers
- Passport Validity: Minimum 6 months required for entry into Malaysia or Indonesia.
- Visa Requirements: Check current visa regulations for Indonesia before traveling.
- Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) accepted within Malaysia; Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) in Indonesia.
- Customs: Duty-free allowance includes limited alcohol and tobacco.
- Language: English and Bahasa Malaysia commonly spoken at the terminal.
Getting Around Locally
Once you arrive in Melaka, you can easily explore the city using:
- Grab: Widely available; affordable and convenient.
- Taxi Services: Available near the terminal entrance.
- Local Buses: Connect to major areas via Melaka Sentral.
- Car & Scooter Rentals: Available at tourist hubs near Bandar Hilir.
- Walking & Cycling: Ideal for exploring Melaka’s heritage area.
Travel Tips
- 🕒 Arrive early to allow smooth check-in and immigration clearance.
- 💳 Carry small cash for snacks, terminal fees, or local transport.
- 🧳 Pack light, as baggage allowances may be limited on ferries.
- 📱 Download Grab for easy transportation within Melaka.
- 🧴 Keep travel essentials like sunscreen, power bank, and documents handy.
Summary Table – Melaka International Ferry Terminal
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Jalan Syed Abdul Aziz, Bandar Hilir, Melaka |
| Main Routes | Dumai, Bengkalis (Indonesia) |
| Operating Hours | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Facilities | Cafeteria, Prayer Rooms, Duty-Free Shop, ATMs |
| Ticket Price | From RM120 (one-way) |
| Nearby Attractions | A Famosa, Maritime Museum, Mahkota Parade |
| Best For | International ferry travelers and heritage tourists |
Final Thoughts
The Melaka International Ferry Terminal Jetty serves as more than just a travel hub—it’s a gateway between the Straits of Melaka and the Indonesian archipelago. With efficient facilities, nearby shopping malls, and historical attractions within walking distance, it’s an excellent starting point for international visitors and a convenient link for locals traveling across borders. Whether you’re heading to Indonesia or exploring Melaka’s UNESCO-listed heritage sites, this terminal ensures your journey begins smoothly.
FAQs
1. What are the main ferry destinations from Melaka International Ferry Terminal?
The main destinations are Dumai and Bengkalis in Indonesia.
2. How early should I arrive before departure?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 90 minutes before your scheduled ferry time.
3. Is there parking available at the terminal?
Yes, a paid parking area is available near the terminal.
4. Can I exchange currency at the terminal?
Yes, currency exchange counters are available inside the terminal.
5. Are there food and prayer facilities?
Yes, the terminal includes cafeterias, mini restaurants, and surau (prayer halls) for Muslim travelers.
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