Singapore Pulau Ubin: Kelong Boat Tour & Floating Seafood Lunch

Summary

Boat ride past Pulau Ubin mangroves to kelong lunch with sea views

You’ll ride a catamaran past Pulau Ubin’s wild mangroves, get up close to traditional kelongs and high-tech fish farms, then relax over ultra-fresh seafood at Smith Marine’s floating restaurant. With a local guide leading and time for games or fishing on deck, you’ll taste a different side of Singapore — and maybe catch yourself smiling at strangers across the water.

What’s the experience like?

Somebody handed me a life jacket before I’d even realized we were leaving the city behind. The hum of the catamaran engine mixed with the salty air — you could almost taste it, sharp and clean. Our guide, Li, pointed out Pasir Gudang across the water, telling us how close Malaysia really is (closer than I thought). He laughed when I squinted at the map and tried to pronounce “kelong” properly. Not my best moment.

We cruised along Pulau Ubin’s edge, and suddenly everything slowed down — mangroves creeping right up to the water, an old resort half-swallowed by green. There was this soft slap of waves against wood as we got near the floating fish farms. Li explained how these kelongs work — sustainable fish farming isn’t easy here, apparently. The smell was part ocean, part something earthy and alive. A couple of fishermen waved from their boats; one kid grinned at us like he knew we were city folks out of our element.

The highlight for me was Smith Marine — a floating restaurant that’s half kelong, half modern eatery. We sat outside with plates piled high with whatever they’d just pulled from the nets (I still think about that steamed fish). Someone started a game of Carrom while others tried fishing off the side — “sure catch,” they promised, but I managed to lose my bait twice. The sun felt good on my face and nobody seemed in a rush to leave.

I didn’t expect to feel so far away from Singapore after just a short boat ride. There’s something about drifting between two countries, eating seafood you watched come out of the water… it sticks with you longer than you’d guess.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Pulau Ubin and kelong life

• Learn about Pasir Gudang ports
• Cruise along Pulau Ubin coastline
• See mangrove swamp and abandoned resort
• Learn about kelongs and fish farming
• Visit high tech fish farm
• Relax at floating kelong restaurant
• Play games and try fishing
• Visit Smith Marine floating restaurant

Top questions

How long is the Pulau Ubin kelong boat tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

Is lunch included during the kelong boat tour?

The tour visits Smith Marine floating restaurant where you can order fresh seafood; dinner is optional and not included in base price.

Do I need to arrange my own transport to the departure point?

Public transportation options are available nearby; hotel pickup is not included.

Are there activities besides sightseeing on this tour?

You can play old-school games like Carrom or Jenga at Smith Marine and try your hand at fishing for an extra charge.

Is this Pulau Ubin boat tour suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap during the boat ride.

What will I see during this day trip from Singapore?

You’ll see mangrove swamps, abandoned resorts on Pulau Ubin, traditional kelongs (fish farms), modern high-tech fish farms, and views toward Malaysia.

How many people are needed for this tour to run?

A minimum of 5 participants is required; if fewer book, Let’s Go Tour will offer alternatives or rescheduling options.

What’s included

Your day includes a licensed local guide throughout your journey by catamaran along Singapore’s northeastern coast past Pulau Ubin, close-up views of mangroves and fish farms, entry onto Smith Marine floating restaurant where you can order fresh seafood or play classic games. Fishing gear is available for an extra fee if you want to try catching your own dinner before heading back ashore.