Butterworth Ferry Terminal Penang
Introduction: Your Entry Point to Penang’s Island Magic
The Butterworth Ferry Terminal, officially known as Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim, is the main gateway connecting mainland Malaysia to George Town, Penang Island. Strategically linked to the Penang Sentral Transport Hub, this terminal provides seamless transfers between trains, buses, and ferries, making it one of the most convenient travel points in northern Malaysia. The short ferry ride across the Penang Channel offers scenic views of George Town’s heritage skyline, making it both practical and memorable for travelers.
Location & Coordinates
Address: Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim, 12100 Butterworth, Penang, Malaysia
Coordinates: 5.3997° N, 100.3625° E
Google Maps: Butterworth Ferry Terminal Location
Located adjacent to Penang Sentral, the terminal is part of a modern transportation complex offering easy connections to regional and interstate networks.
How to Get to Butterworth Ferry Terminal
From Major Airports
| Departure Point | Estimated Travel Time | Transport Option |
|---|---|---|
| Penang International Airport | 40–50 minutes | Grab / Taxi / Bus |
| Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) | 4–5 hours | ETS Train / Bus |
| Langkawi International Airport | 3–4 hours (via Kuala Kedah Jetty) | Ferry + Bus/Train |
From Nearby Cities
| City | Duration | Mode of Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Alor Setar | 1.5 hours | ETS / Bus |
| Ipoh | 2.5–3 hours | ETS / Bus |
| Kuala Lumpur | 4–5 hours | ETS / Express Bus |
Access Routes & Connectivity
The Butterworth Ferry Terminal is directly connected to:
- KTM ETS and Komuter Trains (Butterworth Station)
- Rapid Penang Buses (serving island and mainland routes)
- Interstate Express Buses
- Grab and taxis, available 24 hours at Penang Sentral
Travelers arriving at Penang Sentral can easily access the ferry terminal through a covered walkway leading to the Ferry Departure Hall.
Ferry Routes and Schedule
| Route | Duration | Frequency | Operator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Butterworth → George Town (Raja Tun Uda Terminal) | 10–15 minutes | Every 20–30 minutes | Penang Port Sdn Bhd |
Operating Hours
- First Ferry: 6:30 AM
- Last Ferry: 10:00 PM
(Schedule may vary on weekends and public holidays.)
Ticket Prices (Approximate)
| Passenger Type | One-Way Fare (MYR) |
|---|---|
| Adult | RM 1.20 |
| Child | RM 0.60 |
| Motorcycle | RM 2.00 |
| Bicycle | RM 1.40 |
| Car | Not permitted |
Tickets can be purchased from self-service kiosks or via the Penang Port mobile app.
Facilities at Butterworth Ferry Terminal
| Facility | Availability | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Restrooms | Yes | Clean and well-maintained |
| ATMs | Yes | Located inside Penang Sentral concourse |
| Food & Beverages | Yes | Includes coffee shops, local eateries, and convenience stores |
| Prayer Rooms (Surau) | Yes | Separate facilities for men and women |
| Ticket Counters & Kiosks | Yes | For ferry and bus tickets |
| Waiting Area | Yes | Comfortable, air-conditioned |
| Parking | Yes | Multi-level parking at Penang Sentral |
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Penang Sentral Mall | 0 km | Shopping, dining, and travel services |
| George Town UNESCO Heritage Site | 15 minutes (via ferry) | Historical streets, art murals, and museums |
| Penang Bridge Viewpoint | 10 minutes drive | Panoramic view of the iconic Penang Bridge |
| Butterworth Art Walk | 5 minutes drive | Street art inspired by local heritage |
| Tow Boo Kong Temple | 10 minutes drive | Famous Taoist temple known for its festivals |
Tips for International Travelers
- Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). ATMs and money changers are available at Penang Sentral.
- Language: English, Malay, and Mandarin are widely spoken.
- Visa & Immigration: No passport control is required for domestic travel.
- Duty-Free: Not available at this terminal. For duty-free shopping, visit Langkawi or Labuan.
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is provided at Penang Sentral; local SIM cards are available at convenience stores.
Getting Around Locally
- Grab: The fastest and most convenient transport option.
- Rapid Penang Bus: Budget-friendly routes serving major landmarks.
- Taxis: Available outside Penang Sentral; ensure the meter is used.
- Car Rentals: Counters available inside Penang Sentral.
- Bicycles & E-scooters: Available for rent at George Town’s ferry terminal.
Travel Tips
- Arrive at least 15–20 minutes early before your ferry departure.
- Purchase return tickets if planning a same-day trip.
- Sunset ferry rides offer beautiful views of George Town and the sea.
- Travel light — the boarding area includes short walking paths and stairs.
- Enjoy a quick meal or coffee at Penang Sentral before boarding.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim, Butterworth |
| Connected Hub | Penang Sentral |
| Ferry Duration | 10–15 minutes |
| Operating Hours | 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Ticket Price | From RM 1.20 |
| Facilities | ATMs, food, restrooms, parking, prayer rooms |
| Nearby Attractions | George Town, Art Walk, Tow Boo Kong Temple |
| Best For | Tourists, daily commuters, backpackers |
How to Reach Butterworth Ferry Terminal
From Penang International Airport:
- Take a Grab or taxi via the Penang Bridge to Penang Sentral (around 40–50 minutes).
- Follow signs to the Ferry Departure Hall inside the complex.
From Kuala Lumpur:
- Take an ETS train from KL Sentral to Butterworth Station (approx. 4 hours).
- Walk through the connected passage to Penang Sentral.
- Proceed to the ferry terminal to board your ferry to George Town.
Final Thoughts
The Butterworth Ferry Terminal offers a seamless blend of heritage and convenience, connecting Penang’s mainland with the vibrant island city of George Town. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, the short ferry journey across the Penang Channel provides an unforgettable travel experience. With its strategic location, efficient services, and integration with Penang Sentral, it remains one of Malaysia’s most iconic and traveler-friendly transport gateways.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the main ferry route from Butterworth?
The primary route is from Butterworth to George Town (Raja Tun Uda Terminal).
2. Can vehicles board the ferry?
No, the ferry currently serves pedestrians, motorcycles, and bicycles only.
3. How long is the ferry ride?
The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes.
4. Can ferry tickets be purchased online?
Yes, tickets are available via the Penang Port website or mobile app.
5. Is the terminal accessible for disabled travelers?
Yes, both Penang Sentral and the ferry terminal are wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
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