Singapore Duck Tour

Quick Overview

The Singapore Duck Tour offers a lively way to see the city’s most iconic sights in just about an hour. For $39.12 per person, you’ll hop aboard a refurbished amphibious vehicle that takes you through Singapore’s bustling streets and splashes into the Marina Bay for a water-based perspective. The tour departs from Suntec City Mall, making it accessible and convenient, and runs most days from 10 am to 6 pm.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are how it combines urban sightseeing with a splash of adventure, and the character of the vintage amphibious vehicle that makes the journey feel unique. Plus, the audio commentary adds a layer of insight that can turn a simple city tour into an engaging story. On the downside, some travelers mention that the guide’s English can be hard to understand, which might detract from the overall experience.

This tour suits first-time visitors eager to get a quick, visually rich overview of Singapore, especially if they enjoy a bit of fun and novelty. It’s also ideal for families or groups looking for an easy, no-walking way to see several major landmarks in a short time.

Key Points

• Unique amphibious experience combining land and water touring
• Iconic sights like Merlion, Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and Helix Bridge
• Informative commentary enhances the sightseeing with historical and cultural insights
• Family-friendly with a thrill for kids and adults alike
• Accessible location at Suntec City Mall, close to public transportation
• Value for money with a fun, well-organized hour-long trip

A Closer Look at the Singapore Duck Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

Your journey begins at the BIG BUS & DUCK Tourist Hub in Suntec City Mall, a central and well-known spot in Singapore’s downtown. From here, the adventure kicks off in a vintage amphibious vehicle. The group size is capped at 30, so it feels intimate without being crowded. The tour runs hourly from 10 am to 6 pm, which offers flexibility for your sightseeing schedule.

Land Segment: City Sights and Landmarks

Once underway on land, the driver and guide take you past some of Singapore’s most recognizable landmarks. Among these are the Fountain of Wealth, known for its Guinness World Record as the largest fountain in the 1990s, and the Civic District, home to the Singapore Cricket Club and the Singapore Flyer—one of the planet’s tallest observation wheels, standing at 540 feet.

Traveling along the streets, you’ll pass the steps of the National Gallery, where you can picture the historic surrender of the British to the Japanese during WWII, and the Civilian War Memorial, honoring civilians lost in the war. The guide’s commentary is designed to add stories behind these sites, though some reviews note that understanding the guide’s English can be a challenge, so paying close attention or asking questions might help.

Splashdown into the Water

The highlight for many comes when the vehicle splashes into the Singapore River, cruising past the Merlion, Singapore’s iconic mythical creature with a lion’s head and fish’s body. From this vantage point, you’ll see the Marina Bay Sands resort and casino, along with the Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, offering a stunning waterfront view that’s much more intimate than from land.

Traveling on the water, you’ll get unique photo opportunities, especially of the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands, all without the usual crowds. As one reviewer put it, “It was nice to see Singapore from the river. It’s an old war boat so I did smell a bit more diesel than I expected,” which adds a genuine, rugged touch to the experience.

The Sights You’ll See

• The Singapore Flyer
• The Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay
• The Helix Bridge, named after its DNA-like structure
• The Esplanade Theatres
• The Merlion Statue
• The steps of the National Gallery
• The Civilian War Memorial
• The Fountain of Wealth, a global record-holding feature

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many describe the tour as “a fun day out” and note that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. One reviewer praised the organized nature and called the trip “a very informative & organised trip”, highlighting how it’s suitable for all ages. Others appreciated the photos from the water, especially since it offers a different perspective that’s hard to get from a typical city walk.

However, some pointed out that the vehicle can be loud, making the commentary tricky to hear at times. Also, the tour duration—about 45 minutes to an hour—feels just right for a quick overview but may leave some craving more depth or time at each site.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Book in advance, as the tour is popular and often booked 17 days ahead
• Arrive early to ensure a smooth check-in process
• Bring a camera, especially for the water portion where views are stunning
• Prepare for the noise—some travelers suggest bringing earplugs or being prepared to ask the guide to repeat information
• Dress comfortably, as the ride can be bumpy and the weather warm
• Avoid the Chinese New Year Eve (January 28, 2025), when the tour closes early at 4 pm

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $39, this tour offers decent value considering the novelty and scenic highlights. The combination of land and water provides a more comprehensive look at Singapore’s top sights than a traditional bus tour. The friendly guides and informative commentary add to the experience, especially if you enjoy learning along the way.

Some reviews find it “not worth the money” if you’re looking for a detailed, in-depth exploration or if you prefer a longer tour. But for those wanting a quick, fun overview designed to tick off the major sights with a dash of adventure, it hits the mark.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families with kids, thanks to the thrill of riding in an amphibious vehicle and the short duration. It’s also great for first-time visitors wanting a broad snapshot of Singapore’s highlights without walking or public transportation. If you’re traveling with a group that appreciates a bit of fun, humor, and unique photo ops, this experience will suit you well.

Final Thoughts

The Singapore Duck Tour combines urban sightseeing with the joy of splashing into the water, creating a playful and accessible way to see the city’s top spots. It’s especially useful if you’re short on time or simply want a different perspective.

While it might not satisfy those seeking an in-depth historical or culture, it’s a reliable, well-organized outing that offers great views, friendly guides, and a memorable ride. Expect a lively atmosphere, some quirky charm, and plenty of photo opportunities.

For families, first-time visitors, and those keen on a fun, light tour, this is a solid choice. Just remember to book early, bring your camera, and prepare for some noise and bumps along the way. It’s a taste of Singapore that’s as lively and colorful as the city itself.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Approximately one hour—short enough to keep it fun and engaging without dragging on.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the BIG BUS & DUCK Tourist Hub in Suntec City Mall and returns there at the end of the trip.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most reviews mention it as a “fun and easy” activity for kids, especially since it provides a little thrill and lots of sights.

Can I see the main attractions from land alone?
Yes, many landmarks are close by, but the water portion offers a different view and fewer crowds, making it worth the splash.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended—most travelers book about 17 days ahead to secure a spot.

Are there any restrictions or considerations?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but be aware that some reviews mention the guide’s English can be difficult to understand, so paying attention or asking questions might help.

Is the vehicle noisy?
Yes, the amphibious vehicle can be loud, which may make hearing the commentary challenging at times.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not part of the package, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry afterward.

Whether you’re after a quick city overview or a fun photo adventure, the Singapore Duck Tour offers a memorable, family-friendly experience that covers a lot of ground—literally and figuratively.