Top 10 Ferry Routes for Island Hopping in Malaysia
Malaysia’s tropical coastline is dotted with stunning islands and marine parks, perfect for sun-seekers, divers, and nature lovers. One of the best ways to explore these gems is through ferry travel. In this article, we highlight the top 10 ferry routes for island hopping in Malaysia—from quick getaways to cross-border adventures.
| No. | Route | Departure Point | Duration | Estimated Price (MYR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Langkawi to Koh Lipe (Thailand) | Kuah Jetty, Langkawi | 1.5 hours | 120–150 |
| 2️⃣ | Mersing to Pulau Tioman | Mersing Jetty, Johor | 1.5 to 2 hours | 35–50 |
| 3️⃣ | Kuala Kedah to Langkawi | Kuala Kedah Jetty, Kedah | 1.5 hours | 23–26 |
| 4️⃣ | Kuala Terengganu to Pulau Redang | Shahbandar or Merang Jetty, Terengganu | 1 to 1.5 hours | 55–110 |
| 5️⃣ | Kota Kinabalu to Labuan Island | Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, Sabah | 3 to 3.5 hours | 20–40 |
| 6️⃣ | Lumut to Pangkor Island | Lumut Jetty, Perak | 15–20 minutes | 10–14 |
| 7️⃣ | Kuala Besut to Perhentian Islands | Kuala Besut Jetty, Terengganu | 30 to 45 minutes | 35–70 |
| 8️⃣ | Sandakan to Turtle Islands | Sandakan Jetty, Sabah | 1 hour | Eco-package only (≈ RM300+) |
| 9️⃣ | Penang to Langkawi | Swettenham Pier, George Town, Penang | 2.5 to 3 hours | 70–90 |
| 🔟 | Semporna to Tun Sakaran Marine Park | Semporna Jetty, Sabah | 15 to 45 min (island-hop) | Tour package (≈ RM150–350) |
1. Langkawi to Koh Lipe (Thailand) – A Cross-Border Paradise
Departure Point: Kuah Jetty, Langkawi
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Highlights:
- International ferry route connecting Malaysia and Thailand
- Gateway to white sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs
- Operates between November and May only
SEO Bonus: This is the most popular ferry route from Malaysia to Thailand for travelers looking to explore both countries in one trip.
2. Mersing to Pulau Tioman – Nature Lover’s Dream
Departure Point: Mersing Jetty, Johor
Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Highlights:
- Access to Tioman’s rainforests, waterfalls, and coral reefs
- Popular with backpackers and divers
- Advance booking is recommended, especially during monsoon-free months (March–October)
Keyword Tip: Best ferry to Tioman Island from mainland Malaysia.
3. Kuala Kedah to Langkawi – Budget-Friendly Access
Departure Point: Kuala Kedah Jetty, Kedah
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Highlights:
- Economical alternative to flying to Langkawi
- Preferred by domestic travelers from northern Malaysia
- Multiple daily departures available
4. Kuala Terengganu to Pulau Redang – Luxury Island Escape
Departure Points: Shahbandar Jetty or Merang Jetty, Terengganu
Travel Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
Highlights:
- Direct access to Redang’s clear waters and luxurious beachfront resorts
- Ideal for couples and honeymooners
- Snorkeling and turtle-watching opportunities
5. Kota Kinabalu to Labuan Island – East Malaysia Gem
Departure Point: Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, Sabah
Travel Time: 3 to 3.5 hours
Highlights:
- Connects Sabah’s capital to the duty-free Labuan Island
- Great for short shopping or diving trips
- Also serves as a regional commercial ferry link
6. Lumut to Pangkor Island – Quick Island Getaway
Departure Point: Lumut Jetty, Perak
Travel Time: 15–20 minutes
Highlights:
- Frequent ferries every 30–45 minutes
- Easy day trip from Ipoh or Kuala Lumpur
- Great for seafood lovers and beachgoers
Search Tip: Popular ferry to Pangkor Island from Perak.
7. Kuala Besut to Perhentian Islands – Snorkeling Hotspot
Departure Point: Kuala Besut Jetty, Terengganu
Travel Time: 30 to 45 minutes
Highlights:
- Direct access to both Perhentian Kecil and Perhentian Besar
- Among Malaysia’s best snorkeling and diving destinations
- Boats leave frequently from morning till afternoon
8. Sandakan to Turtle Islands (Pulau Selingan) – For Wildlife Enthusiasts
Departure Point: Sandakan Jetty, Sabah
Travel Time: 1 hour
Highlights:
- Visit Sabah’s turtle conservation sanctuary
- Turtle nesting and hatching experience
- Access is limited to controlled, eco-tourism packages only
9. Penang to Langkawi – Cultural to Coastal Experience
Departure Point: Swettenham Pier, George Town, Penang
Travel Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Highlights:
- Scenic inter-island journey
- Connects heritage-rich Penang with laid-back Langkawi
- Ideal for travelers looking to explore both UNESCO heritage and beaches
10. Semporna to Tun Sakaran Marine Park Islands – Island-Hopping Tours
Departure Point: Semporna Jetty, Sabah
Travel Time: 15 to 45 minutes between islands
Highlights:
- Includes Bohey Dulang, Sibuan, Mantabuan, and more
- Ideal for snorkelers, divers, and Instagrammers
- Ferries are mostly speedboats arranged via tour operators
Travel Tips for Island Hopping in Malaysia:
- Book ferries in advance during school holidays and long weekends
- Check weather conditions, especially during the monsoon season (Nov–Feb on the east coast)
- Use official jetties and licensed operators for safety
- Bring cash, as island services may be limited
Final Thoughts
Malaysia’s ferry routes are not just a mode of transport—they’re your gateway to unforgettable island escapes. Whether you want luxury in Langkawi, diving in the Perhentians, or a quick seafood trip to Pangkor, there’s a ferry route tailored for every traveler.
