Redang Island, a gem in the South China Sea, is a popular destination for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and pristine beaches. While there are a couple of jetties that serve the island, Merang Jetty is often the preferred choice due to its proximity and faster boat transfers. This article will serve as your guide on how to get to Merang Jetty and, from there, make the final leg of your journey to the stunning shores of Redang.
Where is Merang Jetty?
Merang Jetty is located in the state of Terengganu, Malaysia, approximately 30 kilometers north of the Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG) in Kuala Terengganu. It's a key departure point for boats to Redang Island as well as nearby Lang Tengah and Bidong Islands. The jetty itself is a modest hub with ticket counters, toilets, and some small food stalls.
Getting to Merang Jetty
Your journey to Merang Jetty will typically begin from either Kuala Lumpur or another major city in Malaysia. Here's a breakdown of the most common ways to get there:
1. By Air (Recommended for speed and convenience)
Fly to Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG), Kuala Terengganu: This is the most efficient way to get close to the jetty. Major airlines like AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and Firefly operate daily flights to TGG from various Malaysian cities, particularly Kuala Lumpur.
From TGG to Merang Jetty: The drive from the airport to Merang Jetty is short, taking about 30 to 45 minutes. You can easily arrange for a taxi or a pre-booked van transfer from the airport to the jetty. Many resorts offer this service as part of their package, so be sure to check with them.
Tip: If you're flying, it's highly recommended to book a morning flight to ensure you arrive in time for the scheduled boat transfers to Redang.
2. By Bus (The budget-friendly option)
Bus to Kuala Terengganu: You can take a long-distance bus from major terminals like Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) in Kuala Lumpur to the Kuala Terengganu Bus Terminal. The journey can take 6-8 hours or more, depending on traffic and stops.
From Kuala Terengganu to Merang Jetty: From the bus terminal, you will need to take a taxi or a local bus (like the T147 or Route 3685) to reach Merang Jetty.
Tip: Overnight buses are a popular choice to save time and money on accommodation. Aim to arrive in Kuala Terengganu by early morning to catch your boat transfer.
3. By Car (For those who prefer flexibility)
Driving to Merang Jetty:You can drive to Merang Jetty from Kuala Lumpur. The journey is approximately 450-500 kilometers and can take 5 to 7 hours.
Parking at the Jetty: Merang Jetty has secure, 24/7 parking facilities for a fee, so you can leave your vehicle with peace of mind while you're on the island.
From Merang Jetty to Redang Island
Once you've arrived at Merang Jetty, the final part of your journey is a short and scenic boat ride.
Ferry Services: Merang Jetty is the main departure point for most boat transfers to Redang Island. The journey typically takes about 45 minutes to one hour by speedboat.
Scheduled Transfers: Most resorts and tour operators have their own scheduled boat transfers from Merang Jetty directly to their specific resort jetties on Redang Island. Be sure to check with your resort for their exact departure times and a meeting point at the jetty.
Public and Private Boats: In addition to resort-specific transfers, there are public ferry services and chartered boats available. Companies like Vigourmarine and Al Ameen Boat Services operate multiple daily trips.
Ticket Information: Return boat tickets are typically priced around MYR 110 for adults and MYR 70 for children. It's often more convenient to book your tickets in advance, either online or as part of a resort package.
Important Note: Boat schedules are subject to change based on weather and sea conditions, especially during the monsoon season (typically October to March). Always confirm the latest timings with your resort or boat operator before your trip.
Merang Jetty provides a seamless and quick gateway to the tropical paradise of Redang Island. By planning your travel method in advance, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free start to your island getaway.
