Singapore River Cruise
Glide past Singapore's iconic skyline on a traditional bumboat, experiencing history and modernity from the water.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Singapore River Cruise
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Glide past Singapore's iconic skyline on a traditional bumboat, experiencing history and modernity from the water.
"A magical sunset cruise blending city sophistication with a touch of enchantment."
🎯 Book Sunset Slots Early
Sunset cruises are popular; book online a month ahead if possible to secure your spot.
💰 Check for Discounts
Look out for special offers, especially for locals or during off-peak times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Skyline Spectacle
Singapore River
Witness the city's iconic landmarks transform as the sun sets, casting a golden glow on the skyline.
Historic Bumboats
Clarke Quay Jetty
Experience Singapore's charm aboard traditional bumboats, offering a nostalgic and scenic journey.
Iconic Landmarks
Along the Singapore River
Glide past the Merlion, Marina Bay Sands, Fullerton Hotel, and vibrant quays, learning their stories.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunset Views
Tickets & Departure Points
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Sunset Slots Early
Sunset cruises are popular; book online a month ahead if possible to secure your spot.
💰 Check for Discounts
Look out for special offers, especially for locals or during off-peak times.
📸 Photo Ops with Guide
The guide may assist with photos, sometimes posing you for memorable shots.
🎧 Audio Commentary
Listen to the informative commentary about the river's history and surrounding buildings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Sunset Slots Early
Sunset cruises are popular; book online a month ahead if possible to secure your spot.
💰 Check for Discounts
Look out for special offers, especially for locals or during off-peak times.
📸 Photo Ops with Guide
The guide may assist with photos, sometimes posing you for memorable shots.
🎧 Audio Commentary
Listen to the informative commentary about the river's history and surrounding buildings.
🚶♂️ Explore Quays Before
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and dining options at Clarke Quay or Boat Quay before your cruise.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Singapore River Cruise, particularly the magical sunset and evening experiences that showcase the city's iconic skyline and landmarks from a unique vantage point. The traditional bumboats add a charming touch to the journey, making it a highly recommended activity for soaking in Singapore's blend of history and modernity.
"Taking a Singapore River Cruise at sunset is an experience that blends city sophistication with a touch of magic. As the sky shifts from golden hues to deep twilight, the boat glides gently past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks—each one transforming in the changing light.
Starting from Clarke Quay, the brightly lit, pastel-colored waterfront immediately sets a festive tone. The quayside is buzzing with life, and from the water, the canopy-covered restaurants and historic warehouses now turned into nightlife spots offer a lively contrast to the serenity of the river itself. Booking a cruise just before sunset allows you to catch the golden reflections on Marina Bay Sands’ towers—a shimmering display that photos can only partly capture.
Drifting along, the route unfolds like a curated tour of Singapore’s architectural diversity. The statuesque Fullerton Hotel, with its neoclassical grandeur, commands attention as it lights up in the evening glow. Nearby, the Merlion fountain delivers its signature spray, backed by a skyline that gradually illuminates with office lights and high-rise reflections. The scene becomes cinematic as the sun sets and the city skyline—towers bearing names like CapitaLand, Maybank, and OUE—takes on a crisp silhouette against the warm sky.
Passing under historic bridges and alongside Boat Quay and Marina Bay, the cruise offers a layered narrative of Singapore’s past and present. Skyscrapers rise behind rows of preserved shophouses, and modern art venues like the lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum mark the city’s cultural ambition.
The boats themselves, modeled after traditional bumboats, feel sturdy and nostalgic, with open sides that invite the breeze. The commentary provides a light touch of historical context, but it’s the visual journey that really captivates.
If there’s one tip, it’s this: time your ride to start about 20–30 minutes before sunset. That way, you catch both the golden hour and the city’s shift into night mode, with reflections dancing in the river and the lights gradually coming alive. It’s not just a touristy boat ride—it’s a scenic immersion into Singapore’s identity, told through water, architecture, and light."
navid ghannad
"We first heard about the river cruise while watching Somebody Feed Phil when he came to Singapore. It looked very touristy but as we were tourists, we felt entitled to try it
It proved hard to get exact departure times online, so we just turned up and managed to jump on a boat which was just about to depart
It was nice to sail down some historic areas of Singapore’s history before getting to the more modern sights of Marina Bay Sands
Then, it got a little weird. The guide from the boat was very strict and you were only allowed to stand up and take photos if he allowed you. Fortunately, he liked us because he asked us to get up for a photo that he insisted on taking and posed us into having a kiss for one of the photos
A fun way to see Singapore from a different angle"
Yee Gan Ong
"It was a beautiful experience at the Singapore River Cruise today.
We all had so much fun.
The boat ride so informative,the recorded guide told us so much about the river,the people who eesises there before they were relocated.
The river cleaned before it became a tourist site.
On the boat ride we saw a lot of restaurants,the financial hub,the statue of the half lion,half fish that brings water out of its mouth,
We also saw the Fullerton hotel.
We could also see the Marina Bay Sands hotel.
I enjoyed every bit of the ride and would recommend it to every one visiting Singapore.
It's a sure place to visit."
Patience Obilor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main departure points are Clarke Quay Jetty and Boat Quay. You can easily reach these by MRT (Clarke Quay station) or by taxi/ride-sharing. The areas are well-connected and easily accessible within the city.
Yes, there are several parking options available near Clarke Quay and Boat Quay. However, public transport is often more convenient and recommended due to potential traffic and parking costs.
Absolutely! The nearest MRT station to Clarke Quay is Clarke Quay MRT (North-East Line). From there, it's a short walk to the jetties.
Yes, the jetties at Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are well-signposted and are central hubs for river activities. Look for signs directing you to the river cruise boarding areas.
If you're in Marina Bay, you can take a short taxi or ride-share, or enjoy a pleasant walk along the waterfront to reach Boat Quay, which is a departure point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices typically range around $28 for adults and $18 for children (3-11 years old). Prices can vary, and discounts may be available for Singaporeans or during certain promotions. +1
You can purchase tickets online through platforms like Klook, or directly at the ticket booths located at the departure jetties in Clarke Quay or Boat Quay.
It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for sunset or evening cruises, as slots can fill up quickly. Booking online can also sometimes offer better rates.
The standard Singapore River Cruise typically lasts for about 40 minutes, offering a comprehensive tour of the key riverside landmarks.
While there were previously free options, as of January 2024, the cruises are generally paid. Keep an eye out for special events or promotions that might offer free rides.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll see iconic landmarks like the Merlion, Marina Bay Sands, Fullerton Hotel, Esplanade, and the historic quays of Boat Quay and Clarke Quay. The cruise offers a unique perspective of Singapore's skyline and architecture.
Yes, most cruises include an audio commentary, either recorded or live, that provides historical context and information about the sights you'll pass.
The bumboats are traditional Singaporean vessels, offering a nostalgic experience. They usually have indoor and outdoor seating options, allowing you to enjoy the breeze.
Yes, you can take photos. Some guides might offer assistance or even pose you for specific shots. Be mindful of other passengers and the boat's movement.
Many visitors recommend taking the cruise around sunset to capture the beautiful golden hour light and see the city transition into its dazzling nighttime display.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, food and drinks are not included or sold on the standard 40-minute river cruises. However, the departure points at Clarke Quay and Boat Quay are lined with numerous restaurants and bars where you can dine before or after your cruise.
Clarke Quay and Boat Quay offer a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries and pubs to upscale restaurants, serving various international and local cuisines.
Yes, it's highly recommended to plan your meals around the cruise. Many visitors enjoy dinner at the vibrant waterfront restaurants at Clarke Quay or Boat Quay after their evening cruise.
While the standard river cruises are sightseeing focused, some operators might offer longer dinner cruise experiences. It's best to check specific tour providers for these options. +1
Clarke Quay is known for its lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings, with bustling restaurants, bars, and entertainment. It's a great place to soak in the city's nightlife.
📸 📸 Photography
Every angle offers a great shot! Focus on the Merlion, Marina Bay Sands, Fullerton Hotel, and the illuminated skyline. The reflections on the water are particularly stunning at sunset.
Both offer unique perspectives. Daytime provides clear views of architecture, while nighttime offers a magical, illuminated cityscape with reflections. Sunset is often considered the best for a blend of both.
Use a tripod if possible for stability, a wider aperture (lower f-number) to capture more light, and a higher ISO if needed, but be mindful of noise. Experiment with longer exposure times.
Yes, the river cruise offers a fantastic vantage point to see the Spectra light and water show at Marina Bay. Timing your cruise to coincide with the show is a great idea.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be respectful of other passengers and follow any instructions from the boat crew.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many families enjoy the visual spectacle of the city's landmarks and the gentle ride. Consider booking a cruise that aligns with nap times or meal schedules. Some hotels even offer packages that include river cruise tickets, making it a convenient addition to your family itinerary.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1To maximize value, consider dining at local hawker centers or casual eateries around Clarke Quay or Boat Quay before or after your cruise, rather than opting for pricier waterfront restaurants. The cruise itself provides the main sightseeing experience, so focusing your budget on that is a smart move.
💖 Couples
+1Consider booking a cruise that coincides with the Spectra light and water show at Marina Bay for an extra special evening. Enjoying a leisurely dinner at one of the many restaurants along Clarke Quay or Boat Quay before or after the cruise can complete a perfect date night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Traditional Bumboats
Many visitors find the bumboats themselves to be a charming part of the experience. They are designed to navigate the river efficiently, offering a stable ride even as they pass by larger vessels. The open sides mean you're never too far from the action, making it easy to snap photos and take in the panoramic views of the evolving Singaporean landscape.
While some bumboats might have covered sections for shade, the overall feel is one of connection to the water and the city's history. It's this blend of tradition and modern sightseeing that makes the bumboat cruise a memorable activity for many travelers.
+1Navigating the Singapore River: A Historical and Modern Tapestry
The cruise route typically highlights key architectural marvels. You'll see the grandeur of the Fullerton Hotel, a former post office, standing proudly alongside contemporary giants like the Marina Bay Sands and the iconic ArtScience Museum. The Merlion, Singapore's mythical symbol, is another must-see, often viewed with the impressive city skyline as its backdrop.
+1This journey along the river is more than just a scenic tour; it's a narrative of Singapore's progress. The commentary often touches upon the river's clean-up efforts and its revitalization, emphasizing how it has been transformed into a key tourist attraction that reflects the city's dynamic spirit.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips for Your Cruise
When shooting in low light or at night, a tripod can be invaluable for sharp images, though often impractical on a moving boat. Instead, try to stabilize your phone or camera against the boat's railing or use a wider aperture (lower f-number) and a slightly higher ISO to capture sufficient light. Experiment with different angles to get unique perspectives of landmarks like the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands.
+1Don't forget to capture the vibrant atmosphere of Clarke Quay and Boat Quay before or after your cruise. The colorful buildings and lively waterfront offer great foreground elements. Many visitors also find the light and water show at Marina Bay to be a spectacular subject, and the cruise offers a prime viewing spot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit