Johor’s islands are primarily accessible by boat, with mainland jetty points offering services to popular destinations like Pulau Rawa, Pulau Sibu, Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Besar, and Pulau Tengah. Understanding the seasonal calendar is key — most Johor islands follow the east coast weather pattern and close during the Northeast Monsoon.
For the full island-by-island seasonal breakdown, see our Complete Guide to Malaysia’s Islands.
Getting There
Main Jetties in Johor
Mersing Jetty
- Serves Pulau Rawa, Pulau Tinggi, and Pulau Besar.
- The jetty is well-equipped with parking, ticket counters, and small shops.
Tanjung Leman Jetty
- Primarily serves Pulau Sibu and Pulau Tengah.
- It’s quieter than Mersing Jetty, offering a more relaxed boarding experience.
Boat Tickets and Timings
Boat services to the islands are run by private operators or resorts. Most trips are scheduled during the morning and early afternoon as the seas are calmer.
- Pulau Rawa: The boat ride from Mersing Jetty takes about 20–30 minutes. Tickets are often included in resort packages, with round-trip transfers typically costing MYR 130 nett per person. For more details on rates and packages, visit the Rawa Island Resort.
- Pulau Sibu: The boat ride from Tanjung Leman Jetty to Pulau Sibu takes about 20 minutes. Round-trip ticket prices are MYR 150 for adults and MYR 100 for children. These prices are for the round-trip transfer. Note that boats are not a regular ferry service and must be pre-booked as part of the resort package. For more information, visit Sibu Island Resort.
- Pulau Tinggi: The boat ride from Tanjung Leman Jetty to Pulau Tinggi takes around 30 minutes, ending at the arrival jetty for easy disembarkation. Round-trip ticket prices are approximately MYR 90 per person. For more details and bookings, visit Pulau Tinggi Resort.
- Pulau Besar:There are no scheduled public boats from Mersing Jetty to Pulau Besar. All boat transfers are arranged through the resort package. The boat journey typically takes 45 to 70 minutes, depending on sea conditions. For more information, visit the Besar Island Resort to inquire about boat transfers and packages.
- Pulau Tengah: The boat journey from Mersing Jetty to Batu Batu Resort takes approximately 20–30 minutes in the resort’s speedboat, depending on weather conditions. The boat trip typically takes around 20-30 minutes, with the duration depending on sea conditions. Round-trip boat fees generally cost MYR 180 for adults and MYR 120 for children. For more information and to book your stay, visit Batu Batu Resort‘s official website.
Tips for Booking and Traveling
- Book in Advance: Boats fill up quickly during peak travel seasons, so secure your tickets at least a week ahead.
- Confirm Timings: Weather can affect schedules, so stay in touch with operators for updates.
- Resort Transfers: Many resorts offer private transfers, which can be more convenient and personalized. Check if these are included in your booking.
- Pack Light: Jetties and boat rides can be hectic. A compact, waterproof bag is ideal for easy boarding.
Travel Precautions
Always check the weather forecast before heading to the islands, especially in December when the monsoon season can cause choppy seas. Wearing a life jacket during boat rides is mandatory, and it’s a good idea to carry motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness.
With these tips, you’ll be ready to explore Johor’s stunning islands while ensuring a safe and smooth journey!
