Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal George Town Penang
Introduction
Located at the heart of George Town, Penang, the Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal is one of the island’s most iconic transport hubs, linking Penang Island to the mainland via Penang Sentral in Butterworth. Named after Malaysia’s first Yang di-Pertua Negara, this terminal serves as both a historical landmark and a vital commuting point for locals and tourists. Whether you’re traveling for business, sightseeing, or connecting to Penang Sentral, this ferry terminal offers a scenic and efficient route across the Penang Strait.
Location & Map
Address: Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal, Weld Quay, George Town, 10300 Penang, Malaysia
Coordinates: 5.4133° N, 100.3440° E
How to Get There
From Major Airports
- From Penang International Airport (PEN): Approximately 18 km or a 25–30 minute drive via Tun Dr. Lim Chong Eu Expressway.
- From Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA): Take a domestic flight to Penang or travel by train (ETS) to Butterworth Railway Station, then cross via the ferry.
By Land
- From Butterworth: Access the ferry terminal via Penang Sentral, where trains, buses, and taxis converge.
- By Car: Drive via the Penang Bridge or Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge, depending on your route.
Ferry Routes & Schedules
Ferries operate between Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal (George Town) and Penang Sentral (Butterworth) daily. The journey offers panoramic sea views and is a convenient way to travel between the island and the mainland.
| Route | Duration | Operating Hours | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| George Town ↔ Butterworth | ~10–15 minutes | 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM | Every 20–30 minutes |
Ferry Ticket Prices (Approximate)
| Passenger Type | One-Way Fare (MYR) |
|---|---|
| Adult | RM 1.20 |
| Child (Ages 2–12) | RM 0.60 |
| Motorcycle | RM 2.00 |
| Bicycle | RM 1.40 |
Note: Tickets can be purchased at the counter or via Touch ‘n Go at Penang Sentral.
Operating Hours
- First Ferry: 6:30 AM
- Last Ferry: 9:00 PM
- Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes (subject to weather and demand)
Facilities at Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal
The ferry terminal offers essential amenities for travelers’ comfort and convenience.
On-site Facilities
- Waiting Area: Comfortable seating with sea views.
- Ticket Counters & Kiosks: Cash and e-payment options.
- Restrooms: Clean and regularly maintained.
- ATMs: Available near the terminal entrance.
- Prayer Rooms (Surau): Separate facilities for men and women.
- Food & Beverages: Nearby stalls and cafés offering Penang-style snacks and drinks.
- Accessibility: Ramps and elevators for passengers with mobility needs.
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Clan Jetties of Penang | 300 m | A UNESCO-listed heritage site showcasing Penang’s early Chinese settlements. |
| Pinang Peranakan Mansion | 700 m | A museum featuring Baba-Nyonya culture and antiques. |
| Fort Cornwallis | 900 m | Malaysia’s largest standing fort, built by the British East India Company. |
| Chew Jetty | 400 m | A wooden waterfront village offering photo spots and local souvenirs. |
| Penang Street Art | 1 km | Explore iconic murals scattered across George Town’s heritage lanes. |
Getting Around Locally
- Grab / Taxi: Widely available via mobile app or designated taxi stands.
- Rapid Penang Bus: Routes connect the terminal with major attractions and transport hubs.
- Car Rentals: Available near Weld Quay and downtown George Town.
- Bicycles / E-scooters: Eco-friendly options for exploring heritage streets.
Tips for International Travelers
- Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).
- Language: English and Malay are widely spoken.
- Immigration: Not required for domestic travelers; bring passport for visa checks if connecting from Thailand.
- Duty-Free: Available at Penang International Airport and Langkawi; not at the terminal.
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi zones available in George Town and nearby cafés.
Travel Tips
- 🕒 Arrive Early: Ferries can get busy during weekends and holidays.
- 💳 Use E-Payment: Touch ‘n Go is the fastest ticketing option.
- 📷 Capture Views: The sea crossing offers beautiful skyline views of George Town.
- ☔ Weather Alert: Check conditions before traveling, especially during monsoon season.
- 🍽️ Eat Nearby: Try Weld Quay Nasi Kandar or Toh Soon Café for authentic Penang flavours.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | George Town, Penang |
| Main Route | George Town ↔ Butterworth (Penang Sentral) |
| Operating Hours | 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Average Fare | RM 1.20 per adult |
| Facilities | ATMs, Restrooms, Prayer Rooms, Food Stalls |
| Nearby Attractions | Clan Jetties, Fort Cornwallis, Pinang Peranakan Mansion |
Final Thoughts
The Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal stands as a timeless gateway connecting Penang Island and the mainland. Its strategic location, historical charm, and efficient ferry service make it a must-visit point for travelers seeking both convenience and heritage charm. Whether you’re commuting or exploring, this terminal embodies the maritime heart of Penang.
FAQ
1. Where is Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal located?
It is located at Weld Quay, George Town, Penang, facing the Butterworth mainland.
2. How long is the ferry ride to Butterworth?
Approximately 10–15 minutes, depending on weather and traffic.
3. Are cars allowed on the ferry?
No, the current ferry service is passenger-only, with motorcycles and bicycles permitted.
4. What’s the best time to travel?
Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and less crowding.
5. Is the ferry terminal near George Town attractions?
Yes, it’s within walking distance to key UNESCO heritage sites and waterfront landmarks.
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