Overview
Planning a trip to Redang Island? Here is travel guide on the best way to visit Redang Island.
There are many ways to get to Redang Island, and the most popular and cost efficient way (affordable) is to get there by flight to Kuala Terengganu before hopping onto the boat to Redang Island via Merang Jetty. But if you have spare change, you may opt to fly direct to Redang Island via Berjaya Air from Subang Airport.
Our guide will take you step-by-step from your arrival at Terengganu airport all the way to your tropical destination, complete with tips on where to stay near the Merang Jetty and a timetable for the boat departures.
Best Way to Get to Redang Island
By Direct Flight
Fly direct to Kuala Terengganu Airport (TGG) from KL, Subang or Penang, then a 30–40 minute taxi or Grab ride to Merang Jetty.
Pros- Fastest option — under an hour in the air from KL
- Several flights daily; easy same-day connection to the boat
- No long highway drive; arrive fresh for the island
- More expensive, especially in school & public holidays
- Must time your flight with the boats (last departure 3:00 PM)
- Still needs a taxi or Grab transfer from the airport to the jetty
By Road & Boat
Self-drive or take a coach to Kuala Terengganu, drive on to Merang Jetty, then hop on a public boat to Redang (approx. 45 minutes).
Pros- Cheapest way to travel, especially for families & groups
- Full flexibility — stop at beaches & towns along the coast
- Free & paid parking available near the jetty for self-drivers
- Long drive — roughly 4.5–5 hours from Kuala Lumpur
- Boats are weather-dependent; services reduce in monsoon season (Nov–Feb)
- Check-in required 30–40 minutes before your boat departs
SUMMARY: BEST WAY TO TRAVEL TO REDANG ISLAND (Most Popular)
- Arrive at Terengganu Airport or Drive to Merang Jetty
- Stay 1 night at beachfront villas near Merang Jetty
- Depart to Redang Island via Merang Jetty
- Enjoy Redang Island
- Return to Redang Island (if you opt for a snorkeling day trip)
Step 1: Arriving at Terengganu Airport (Sultan Mahmud Airport)
1. Airport Transfer Options: After landing at Sultan Mahmud Airport (TGG) in Kuala Terengganu, you’ll need to get to Merang Jetty, the main departure point for boats to Redang Island. The journey from the airport to the jetty is approximately 30-40 minutes by car.
- Taxi: Available outside the arrival hall, with one-way fares usually around RM 40–60.
- Private Transfer: Some hotels and resorts offer transfers directly to Merang Jetty for a more comfortable, hassle-free experience. Arrange this in advance.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: Grab, a popular ride-hailing service in Malaysia, may also be an option in Terengganu.
2. Getting to Merang Jetty: Simply give your driver the location of Merang Jetty, and you’ll be on your way! The road to Merang takes you through scenic countryside with lush greenery.
Step 2: Stay 1 Night Near Merang Jetty
To ease your trip, consider spending a night near Merang Jetty as that gives you ample time to rest and admire the beautiful coastal beaches in Terengganu.
This is ideal if you’re arriving late or prefer an early morning boat departure. A recommended option nearby Merang Jetty is Katsetiu Villas, offering an authentic and tranquil Malaysian retreat close to nature.
Staying at Katsetiu Villas
Katsetiu Villas offers a rustic and charming experience just a short drive from Merang Jetty. Surrounded by tropical greenery and designed in traditional Terengganu style, it’s an ideal place to relax before or after your Redang adventure.
- Location: About 10 minutes from Merang Jetty.
- Amenities: Spacious rooms, local Terengganu decor, and serene gardens. Ideal for a peaceful stay before embarking on your island adventure.
- Booking Tip: Katsetiu Villas can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so make your reservation early. You can book you’re here.
Step 3: Departing from Merang Jetty to Redang Island
Departure Time | Boat Type | Duration | Notes |
9:00 AM | Ferry | 1.5 hours | Arrive early to avoid queues |
10:30 AM | Speedboat | 45 minutes | Fastest option |
1:00 PM | Ferry | 1.5 hours | Ideal for afternoon arrivals |
3:00 PM | Speedboat | 45 minutes | Last departure of the day |
Boat Times: Merang Jetty → Redang Island
Public boat schedules by operator · crossing time approx. 45 minutes
| Operator | Daily Departure Times | Drop-Off Points on Redang |
|---|---|---|
| Vigourmarine Transtour (Merang Waterfront Jetty) |
8:00 AM · 9:30 AM · 10:30 AM 1:00 PM · 3:00 PM |
Redang Island Jetty; direct boats to The Taaras at the same times; extra “big boat” at 1:00 PM |
| Al Ameen Boat Service (Counter K2, Merang Waterfront Jetty) |
8:00 AM · 9:30 AM · 10:30 AM 1:00 PM · 3:00 PM |
Village Jetty, Laguna Jetty, Pelangi Jetty or Teluk Kalong Jetty |
| Resort & private boats (incl. Redang Paradise & resort transfers) |
Between 8:00 AM & 3:00 PM (varies by resort) |
Resort's own jetty — confirm timing directly with your resort when booking |
| Operator | Daily Return Times |
|---|---|
| Vigourmarine Transtour | 9:00 AM · 11:00 AM · 1:00 PM · 4:00 PM (big boat 2:00 PM) |
| Al Ameen Boat Service | 9:00 AM · 11:00 AM · 1:00 PM · 4:00 PM |
Good to know: Check in at the jetty at least 30–40 minutes before departure. Schedules are subject to change due to sea and weather conditions, and may differ during monsoon season (November–February) — always reconfirm with your operator or resort before travelling. Schedule last checked: July 2026.
Sources: Merang Waterfront Jetty (Vigourmarine) — Official Boat Schedule · Al Ameen Boat Service — BusOnlineTicket · Ferryscanner — Merang to Redang Route
Ticket Pricing: Ferry tickets typically range from RM 55–80 for a one-way trip, while speedboats may cost slightly more due to the shorter travel time.
Booking: It’s recommended to book tickets in advance during high season (March to October) to secure a spot.
Step 4: Enjoying Your Stay on Redang Island
This guide covers everything you need to make your trip to Redang Island smooth and memorable. Enjoy your journey!