Ferry to Kusu Island

As there are no current sailings on this route we cannot show ferry schedules at this present time.

There are no current operators on this route.

Kusu Island is accessible exclusively by ferry from Singapore's Marina South Pier, with regular services operating throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes, offering picturesque views of Singapore's southern coastline along the way. Visitors can easily reach Marina South Pier via MRT (Marina South Pier station on the North-South Line) or by bus, with several routes stopping nearby. If arriving by car, the pier offers limited paid parking, though public transportation is recommended during weekends and holidays when ferries to the Southern Islands are particularly popular. Remember to check the ferry schedule in advance, as the last return ferry typically departs Kusu Island in the late afternoon.

Just a short ferry ride from Singapore's bustling mainland lies Kusu Island, a tranquil sanctuary steeped in local legend and natural beauty. This small island, whose name translates to 'Tortoise Island' in Chinese, combines religious heritage with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. As one of Singapore's Southern Islands, Kusu offers visitors a peaceful escape where centuries-old temples, sacred shrines, and local mythology create an atmosphere of spiritual significance against a backdrop of tropical splendor.

Singapore's year-round tropical climate makes Kusu Island accessible in any season, though each period offers distinct advantages. November through February provides slightly cooler temperatures and lower humidity, creating ideal conditions for exploring the island's outdoor attractions. The ninth lunar month (typically September-October) sees the island at its most vibrant during the annual Kusu pilgrimage, when thousands of devotees visit the sacred sites, though expect larger crowds during this period. March through May offers calmer waters and clearer skies perfect for swimming and photography. Weekday visits generally mean fewer visitors, allowing for a more serene experience of the island's natural and cultural treasures.

Kusu Island serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Singapore's Southern Islands network. St. John's Island, just a 15-minute ferry ride away, offers larger beaches, walking trails, and a fascinating marine research facility. Lazarus Island, connected to St. John's by a causeway, boasts some of Singapore's most pristine beaches with powdery white sand and turquoise waters. For nature enthusiasts, Sisters' Islands Marine Park (25 minutes by ferry) provides exceptional snorkeling opportunities among vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Many visitors opt for island-hopping packages that combine Kusu with these neighboring destinations, maximizing the Southern Islands experience while using the ferry network efficiently.

Kusu Island packs remarkable cultural and natural experiences into its modest 8.5 hectares. The Chinese Da Bo Gong Temple honors the Chinese God of Prosperity and the Goddess of Mercy, while nearby, three Malay keramats (shrines) atop a small hill require visitors to climb 152 steps, a journey believed to bring good luck and answered prayers. The island's clean, sheltered lagoons and beaches provide perfect spots for swimming and picnicking, with several well-maintained pavilions available for shade. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the island's namesake tortoises at a dedicated sanctuary, along with opportunities to spot monitor lizards and various sea birds. Local food is limited, so bringing your own picnic supplies is recommended for an authentic island feast overlooking the Singapore skyline.

Kusu Island wasn't always the serene retreat it is today, it was actually formed through extensive land reclamation in the 1970s, merging the original Kusu Island with the nearby Peak Island. According to local legend, the island was formed when a giant tortoise transformed itself into the island to save two shipwrecked sailors, one Chinese and one Malay, explaining both the island's name and the presence of both Chinese and Malay shrines. During the annual Kusu pilgrimage, devotees often release live tortoises into the surrounding waters as a symbol of longevity and good fortune. Despite its small size, Kusu held strategic importance during World War II as a key defensive position in Singapore's maritime approaches.