Penang ferry guide
Car ferries are slower than passenger services
The island of Penang may be attached to the mainland by the 13km Penang Bridge but ferry services are arguably more useful for onward connections. Travelling by ferry from Penang can also take you up the coast to the duty free island of Langkawi near the Thai border, without the need for multiple connections. There are also international services to Medan in Indonesia for those that want to explore Southeast Asia the old fashioned way.
Cross-channel ferry services are provided by Penang Ferry Services and connect Georgetown with Butterworth. This was the only method of reaching mainland Malaysia until 1985 when the bridge was finally constructed. Advance booking can be made for long distance ferry services by clicking here.
Credit cards are unfortunately not currently accepted at the terminal, but there are numerous ATMs in the shopping mall attached which accept international cards.
If you arrive in Penang via a cruise, your liner will most likely be docking at Swettenham Pier Port on the island itself. As Malaysia is currently the 13th largest exporting nation on the planet, Penang Port plays a vital role in the country’s shipping industry and economy generally. Penang is linked to more than 200 ports worldwide and the influx of seafaring merchants can make the bars of Georgetown boisterous places at times. More on bars.
Penang ferries to Butterworth
Ferries from Penang Port to Butterworth run every 20 minutes from 05:30 to 01:00 and cost RM1.20 for adults or RM0.60 for children. Passengers with bicycles must pay a surcharge of RM1.40, RM2.00 for motorbikes or RM7.70 for cars with larger fees apply for bigger vehicles. The journey takes 20 minutes and the train and bus stations at Butterworth are found right next door to the port. More on getting the train or bus.
Penang ferries to Langkawi
Ferry docks at Penang harbour
Langkawi Ferry Services operates direct trips to the resort island at 14:30 and 17:15 every day. (Tel: +60 (0)4 264 2088 for bookings in Penang or Tel: +60 (0)4 966 3779 in Langkawi). One way/return tickets costs RM60/115 for adults or RM45/85 for children between three and 11-years-old with infants costing RM25/50.
The journey takes two-and-a-half hours and advance bookings are advisable, especially at weekends or national holidays. The ships in service are a little dated and not the most comfortable, although the scenery of the countless lush green islands upon approaching Langkawi more than make up for the simple seating.
Luggage is locked up in the the rear of the boat upon boarding, but unfortunately it is not possible to sit on the vessel’s roof. There is no restaurant but snacks are available on board. Make sure to check-in at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time of departure.
Penang ferries to Indonesia
Langkawi Ferry Services operates direct boats to Belwan port in Medan from Penang on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 09:00. The same boat makes the return journey to Penang on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. The trip takes six hours and costs RM110 one way or RM180 return for adults, and RM60 one way or RM100 return for children. Call Tel: +60 (0)4 264 2088 for bookings from in Penang, or +62 (0)6 1452 1666 / +62 (0)6 1452 7555 from Medan.
