Let’s Go Kelong Boat Tour at Pulau Ubin

Discover a Lesser-Known Side of Singapore with the Let’s Go Kelong Boat Tour

If you’re looking for a unique way to see Singapore beyond its bustling streets and iconic landmarks, this Kelong boat tour around Pulau Ubin offers a refreshing perspective. For $107.55 per person, you’ll spend about three hours cruising along the northeastern coast, with small groups limited to ten travelers, which means plenty of personalized attention.

From the moment we stepped onto the luxurious catamaran, it was clear this isn’t your typical sightseeing cruise. The highlights—close encounters with mangrove swamps, the chance to explore an abandoned resort, and visits to kelongs (floating fish farms)—make this a perfect outing for nature lovers and those curious about Singapore’s lesser-seen maritime industry.

Two things we truly appreciated are the expert guide (briefly mentioned as Robin in reviews) who shared engaging stories and insights, and the stunning views of the sea, mangroves, and Malaysia’s distant shores. The tour balances education with relaxation, especially when enjoying a floating restaurant experience.

A consideration to keep in mind is that the minimum group size is five, so if you’re traveling solo or in a small group, you’ll want to plan ahead or confirm availability. Also, since some activities like fishing or dining at the floating restaurant are optional and come with extra charges, it’s worth budgeting a little extra if those pique your interest.

This tour suits nature enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those looking to experience Singapore’s maritime side away from tourist crowds. If you value small-group intimacy, insightful guides, and authentic experiences, you’ll find this trip an enriching addition to your Singapore itinerary.

Key Points

• Unique perspective on Singapore from the water, exploring Pulau Ubin and surrounding waters.
• Educational focus on kelongs, sustainable fish farming, and local ports, with fascinating stories from guides.
• Relaxing environment aboard a luxurious catamaran, with opportunities for games, fishing, and enjoying the sea breeze.
• Close-up views of mangrove swamps, abandoned resorts, and the high-tech fish farm.
• Small group setting limits to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Optional activities like fishing and meals at floating restaurants add extra value.

An In-Depth Look at the Kelong Boat Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the SAF Yacht Club, located conveniently in the northern part of Singapore. From here, your licensed guide will set the tone with a briefing on what to expect, and you’ll be introduced to the vessel—an elegant catamaran designed for comfort and smooth sailing. This is a mobile ticket experience, and booking about a month in advance is recommended, especially during peak months.

The group size is capped at 10, which means you won’t feel lost in a crowd. This intimate setup allows the guide to tailor the commentary and ensure everyone’s questions are answered. The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity, perfect if you’re looking for a laid-back yet enriching experience.

First Stop: Pasir Gudang

Your journey kicks off with a quick 15-minute stop at Pasir Gudang. Here, you’ll learn about the port and the origin of its name. It’s a brief but insightful introduction to the close proximity of Singapore and Malaysia’s waters, offering a glimpse of the region’s maritime importance. You might find this stop particularly interesting if you’re into ports, shipping, or regional geography, as it sets the scene for the tour’s focus on sea-based industries.

Cruising Pulau Ubin and Mangroves

The main part of the tour involves sailing down the length of Pulau Ubin, an island that feels worlds away from the city’s modern skyscrapers. We loved the way the boat glided past mangrove swamps—an ecosystem teeming with life and vital to Singapore’s biodiversity. The views are striking, with thick mangroves on one side and open sea on the other.

A highlight is visiting an abandoned resort, which sparks curiosity about Singapore’s tourism history and development. Our guide shared stories about its history and why it was left behind, adding an intriguing layer to the scenery.

Exploring Kelongs and Fish Farming

Next up is the chance to get on board a kelong—a traditional floating fish farm—and learn about sustainable fish farming practices. As one reviewer put it, the guide explained the concept of kelongs and the struggles faced by fish farmers, making the experience educational and relevant amid growing concerns over sustainability.

Standing on a kelong, you’ll appreciate how these structures are both practical and a vital part of local fisheries. The guide’s storytelling makes it easy to understand the economic and environmental importance of kelong fishing, and it’s fascinating to see a high-tech fish farm valued at $4 million nearby, blending tradition with modern innovation.

Floating Restaurant & Fishing

One of the tour’s unique features is visiting a water-based restaurant, where you can relax while enjoying unobstructed views of the sea. If you choose, you can try your hand at fishing—and based on reviews, many guests found this to be a fun, sure-catch activity, adding a bit of local flavor to the outing. Extra charges apply, but the experience of trying to catch your own fish in such a setting is memorable.

Smith Marine Floating Restaurant

The final stop is the Smith Marine floating restaurant, a hybrid of a fish farm and a dining spot. It’s a popular choice among visitors, especially if you’re hungry after all the activity. If you decide to stay for a meal, you’ll be eating fresh seafood right where it’s farmed, which many reviews highlight as a real treat.

The guide might also share more stories about Singapore’s maritime industry and the ongoing balance between development and sustainability. The tour ends back at the meeting point, leaving you with a sense of having explored a side of Singapore rarely experienced by travelers.

Additional Activities & Optional Extras

While the main tour doesn’t include dinner or fishing, many travelers find value in upgrading their experience. Some enjoy trying old-school games like Carrom or Jenga, played on the boat or at the floating restaurant, adding a playful touch. The optional fishing activity is especially popular among those wanting a hands-on experience.

Why This Tour Delivers for Travelers

When we consider value, the combination of scenic cruising, educational content, and small-group intimacy makes this tour stand out. You’re not just on a boat; you’re learning about Singapore’s maritime culture and sustainable fish farming, all while enjoying breathtaking views and a relaxed atmosphere.

The reviews consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness—something that truly elevates the experience. Many mention how insightful Robin’s stories are, giving context and personality to what might otherwise be just a boat ride.

Because the tour is limited in size, you get to chat more comfortably and ask questions, which helps deepen your understanding of the area’s ecological and economic significance. For those keen on sea life, local industry, or just enjoying a peaceful cruise, it’s an excellent choice.

Price & Value

While $107.55 may seem like a modest investment, consider what’s included: a 3-hour boat trip, a licensed guide, close-up views of ecosystems and industry, and the option for optional activities like fishing or a meal. Compared to typical Singapore city tours, this is a niche experience that offers authentic insights and memorable scenery, making it well worth the price.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who crave something different from the usual city sights. Nature lovers will appreciate the mangrove and island scenery, while those interested in local industries will find the kelongs and fish farms fascinating. It’s also ideal for small groups or solo travelers who prefer a personalized, relaxed environment.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy hands-on activities, the optional fishing and games will be a bonus. Conversely, if you’re after a quick, superficial overview of Singapore, this tour might be more in-depth than you need. But for anyone wanting to connect with Singapore’s maritime roots—or just relax on the water with stunning views—this trip hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and learn about the area without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the SAF Yacht Club and concludes back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

Is the group size small?
Yes, it’s limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I book the tour in advance?
Definitely. Booking about 32 days in advance is typical, especially during busy seasons.

Are meals included?
No, but you can upgrade to include a meal at the floating restaurant if you wish. This is not included in the standard price.

What activities are optional?
Fishing and dining are optional extras, with additional charges. You can also enjoy old-school games like Jenga or Carrom on the boat.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially given the small group size and relaxed pace, but it’s best to check with the operator if you have very young children.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for warm weather, and bring sun protection and a hat. The boat’s open seating means you’ll be exposed to the breeze and sun.

Final Thoughts

This Kelong boat tour is a genuine treasure for those eager to see a different side of Singapore—beyond the skyscrapers and tourist hotspots. It combines scenic cruising, educational insights, and authentic local industries into a compact, memorable adventure. The small-group size and knowledgeable guides make it a personalized experience well worth the modest price.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone interested in sustainable fishing and maritime life, you’ll find plenty to love here. The chance to relax on the water, learn about kelongs, and peek into Singapore’s port life makes this tour a rich, rewarding addition to your trip.

For anyone looking to connect with Singapore’s ecological and maritime heritage, this cruise is a perfect choice—informative, peaceful, and full of surprises.

Note: Always confirm availability and weather conditions before booking, as this activity relies on good weather.