Quick Answer
Best way: Take a public ferry from Kemaro Island to Boom Baru Ferry Terminal (15–20 minutes, ~20,000 IDR), then book a Gojek or Grab car to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport (30–40 minutes, ~110,000 IDR). Total time: 55–75 minutes. Total cost: approximately 130,000 IDR ($8.10 USD). This combination offers the best balance of speed, cost, and convenience for most travelers.
Ferry + Ride-hailing (The Standard Way)
While Kemaro Island has no railway connection, the most practical and widely used transport method is a two-step combination of a public ferry followed by a ride-hailing car (Gojek or Grab). This is the closest equivalent to a fixed-route trunk connection and works reliably for most travelers.
Step 1: Public Ferry from Kemaro Island to Boom Baru Ferry Terminal
- Duration: 15–20 minutes
- Cost: 15,000–25,000 IDR ($0.95–$1.55 USD) per person
- Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes, depending on the time of day (more frequent in the morning and early afternoon)
- Operator: Local ferry cooperatives licensed by the Palembang Port Authority
Step 2: Ride-hailing (Gojek/Grab) from Boom Baru Terminal to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport
- Duration: 30–40 minutes via Jl. Jenderal Sudirman and Jl. Kol. H. Burlian
- Cost: 90,000–130,000 IDR ($5.60–$8.10 USD) for a standard car (GoCar or GrabCar)
- Availability: Excellent; drivers are usually within 3–5 minutes of the terminal
- Tip: Use the app's "share trip" feature for safety
| Item | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Public ferry (Kemaro Island → Boom Baru) | 15,000–25,000 | $0.95–$1.55 |
| Gojek/Grab car (Boom Baru → Airport) | 90,000–130,000 | $5.60–$8.10 |
| Total (per person) | 105,000–155,000 | $6.55–$9.65 |
Why this is the recommended option: It offers the best compromise between cost, speed, and reliability. The ferry is a cultural experience in itself, and ride-hailing apps provide transparent pricing and GPS tracking. No booking is required for the ferry; just show up at the jetty. Source: Indonesia Travel Official and local operator information from the Palembang City Government Portal.
Ferry Luggage & Seating
Public ferries are open-air wooden boats with bench seating. There is no dedicated luggage compartment, but suitcases and backpacks are allowed onboard (keep them on your lap or at your feet). Maximum capacity is typically 12–15 passengers. Life jackets are available but not always worn; you can request one if needed.
When to Choose This Option
Best for solo travelers, couples, and small groups who are comfortable using smartphone apps. Ideal for daytime departures between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM when ferry frequency is highest.
Private Boat Charter (The Fastest Option)
For those who value speed and privacy above all, a private boat charter from Kemaro Island directly to a dock near the airport (or with a pre-arranged car transfer) is the quickest way to reach Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport. Think of this as the "direct flight" equivalent — no waiting, no intermediate stops.
How it works:
- Charter a motorized boat at the Kemaro Island jetty or pre-book through a Palembang tour operator.
- The boat will take you to Sungsang Dock or a designated private jetty closer to the airport (approx. 20–30 minutes).
- A pre-arranged car or minivan will meet you at the dock and drive you directly to the airport (25–35 minutes).
| Service | Duration | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat charter (Kemaro → Sungsang Dock) | 20–30 min | 200,000–400,000 | $12.60–$25.20 |
| 接驳车 (Sungsang → Airport) | 25–35 min | 150,000–200,000 | $9.45–$12.60 |
| Total (private charter, up to 4 pax) | 45–65 min | 350,000–600,000 | $22.05–$37.80 |
Note: Prices are negotiable and depend on boat size, engine power, and waiting time. Always agree on the total price before departure. Source: Grab Indonesia and local boat operator associations in Palembang.
Advantages vs. Disadvantages
Advantages: Door-to-door service, no waiting, privacy, flexible departure time, ideal for groups of 3–4 people.
Disadvantages: Significantly more expensive than public options; requires advance booking or negotiation; not all boat operators speak English.
When to Choose This Option
Recommended for families with young children, travelers with heavy luggage, business travelers on tight schedules, or anyone departing outside regular ferry hours (early morning or late afternoon).
Public Ferry + Bus (The Budget Way)
If you're traveling on a tight budget and have extra time, the public ferry + bus combination is the most economical way to reach Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport from Kemaro Island. This is the "night bus" equivalent — slow, cheap, and an authentic local experience.
Step-by-step:
- Take the public ferry from Kemaro Island to Boom Baru Ferry Terminal (15–20 minutes, 15,000–25,000 IDR).
- From Boom Baru, walk or take a short angkot (minibus) to the nearest Trans Musi bus stop (Jl. Merdeka or Jl. Jenderal Sudirman). Angkot fare: 5,000 IDR ($0.30 USD).
- Take a Trans Musi bus (corridor K1 or K2) heading toward the airport. The journey takes 45–60 minutes and costs 5,000–10,000 IDR ($0.30–$0.60 USD).
| Leg | Mode | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kemaro Island → Boom Baru | Public ferry | 15,000–25,000 | $0.95–$1.55 |
| Boom Baru → Bus stop | Angkot (short ride) | 5,000 | $0.30 |
| Bus stop → Airport | Trans Musi bus | 5,000–10,000 | $0.30–$0.60 |
| Total | 25,000–40,000 | $1.55–$2.45 |
Important: Trans Musi buses operate from 5:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The airport stop is well-signed, but it is advisable to ask the driver or a fellow passenger to confirm your stop. Buses can be crowded during peak hours. Source: Palembang Transport Information.
Comparison: Day Bus vs. "Night Bus"
There is no dedicated night bus service on this route because public ferries stop operating around sunset. If you need to travel after 5:00 PM, you must use a private boat charter or stay on the mainland and take a taxi/ride-hailing from Boom Baru.
When to Choose This Option
Best for backpackers, solo budget travelers, and anyone with ample time (at least 2 hours before flight check-in). Not recommended for families with young children or travelers with large suitcases.
Taxi / Private Transfer
For travelers who prefer a premium, hassle-free experience, a taxi or private transfer from Kemaro Island directly to the airport is available — but at a significant premium. This is the "first-class" option, best reserved for special circumstances.
How it works:
- Arrange a private boat to bring you from Kemaro Island to Boom Baru or another mainland dock (included in the package or arranged separately).
- A private taxi or minivan will be waiting at the dock to take you directly to the airport.
- Some operators offer a door-to-door service that includes the boat ride as part of the package.
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (IDR) | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi from Boom Baru to Airport (standard) | 120,000–180,000 | $7.50–$11.30 |
| Pre-booked private car + boat transfer (up to 3 pax) | 500,000–800,000 | $31.50–$50.40 |
| Premium minivan + boat (up to 7 pax) | 800,000–1,200,000 | $50.40–$75.60 |
When a taxi/private transfer makes sense:
- Late-night or early-morning departures (before 6:00 AM or after 5:00 PM) when public ferries and ride-hailing may be limited.
- Traveling in a group of 4+ people (cost per person becomes comparable to ride-hailing).
- Heavy luggage (multiple large suitcases, sports equipment, etc.).
- Mobility concerns or traveling with elderly passengers.
Warning: Taxi drivers at Boom Baru Terminal may quote inflated prices (up to 250,000 IDR) for airport trips. Always negotiate beforehand or use a ride-hailing app for a fair price. Source: Gojek Indonesia and Booking.com Transport.
Cost & Time Comparison: All Transport Options
Use the table below to quickly compare all available ways to get from Kemaro Island to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport. The best overall and cheapest options are highlighted.
| Transport Mode | Total Time | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⭐ Ferry + Ride-hailing (Recommended) | 55–75 min | 105,000–155,000 | $6.55–$9.65 | 1 (ferry → car) | Most travelers |
| Private Boat Charter (Fastest) | 45–65 min | 350,000–600,000 | $22.05–$37.80 | 0–1 (direct or boat + car) | Groups, luxury seekers |
| 💰 Public Ferry + Bus (Cheapest) | 1.5–2 h | 25,000–40,000 | $1.55–$2.45 | 2 (ferry → angkot → bus) | Budget travelers |
| Taxi from Boom Baru (Standard) | 50–70 min | 135,000–205,000 | $8.50–$12.85 | 1 (ferry + taxi) | Late night, heavy luggage |
| Private Transfer (Boat + Car) | 50–70 min | 500,000–1,200,000 | $31.50–$75.60 | 0 (door-to-door) | Families, business |
Key insights: The Ferry + Ride-hailing option offers the best value for money, while the Public Ferry + Bus is unbeatable for budget travelers. Private charters and transfers are 3–10× more expensive and should only be considered for specific needs. Source: Data compiled from local operator rates, Gojek/Grab price estimates, and the Indonesia Travel Official Website.
Traveler Tips & Experience: Kemaro Island to Airport
Real-world advice from frequent travelers and locals to make your journey smoother.
🚢 Ferry Tips
- Check the tide: During low tide, the ferry may not dock directly at the island's main jetty. You might need to wade through shallow water (ankle- to knee-deep). Wear sandals or roll up your pants.
- Ferry frequency drops after 3:00 PM. If you have a late flight, take an earlier ferry to the mainland and wait there rather than risking being stranded on the island.
- Keep small change (5,000–20,000 IDR notes) for ferry and angkot fares — drivers rarely have change for large bills.
📱 Ride-hailing Tips
- Boom Baru Terminal has free Wi-Fi at the nearby waiting area, so you can book a ride easily even without a local SIM card (use the web version or connect to the port's Wi-Fi).
- Peak hour surcharge: Gojek and Grab may apply surge pricing between 7:00–8:30 AM and 4:30–6:00 PM. If possible, time your trip outside these windows.
- Confirm the pickup point: Drivers may struggle to find you if the terminal is busy. Use the "pin" feature in the app to mark your exact location at the front gate of Boom Baru Terminal.
🧳 Luggage & Baggage
- Pack light for the ferry: Open wooden boats have limited space. A backpack or a small duffel is much easier to handle than a hard-shell suitcase.
- Takkyubin (baggage delivery) is not available on Kemaro Island or in Palembang. You must carry your luggage yourself throughout the journey.
- If you have heavy luggage, consider the private transfer option — the extra cost may be worth the convenience.
⏰ Timing & Scheduling
- Golden Week / Idul Fitri: During Indonesian public holidays (especially Idul Fitri and Christmas), ferry services are crowded and may run on a reduced schedule. Book private transfers well in advance.
- Aim to reach the airport 1.5–2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport is not large, but security lines can be long during peak hours.
Source: Compiled from traveler reviews on TripAdvisor and local insights from Lonely Planet Palembang Guide.
FAQs: Kemaro Island to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport
Is there a direct route from Kemaro Island to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport?
No, there is no direct route. All travelers must take a ferry from Kemaro Island to Boom Baru Ferry Terminal in Palembang, then continue by land transport (taxi, ride-hailing, or bus) to the airport. The combined journey takes approximately 55–75 minutes.
How long does it take to get from Kemaro Island to the airport?
The total journey takes between 55 minutes and 2 hours depending on the chosen transport mode. The fastest option (private boat charter +接驳车) takes about 50–60 minutes. The most common option (public ferry + ride-hailing) takes 55–75 minutes. The budget option (public ferry + bus) takes 1.5–2 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Kemaro Island to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport?
The cheapest way is to take a public ferry from Kemaro Island to Boom Baru Ferry Terminal (15,000–25,000 IDR) followed by a Trans Musi bus or angkot to the airport (5,000–10,000 IDR). Total cost: 20,000–35,000 IDR (approximately $1.30–$2.20 USD).
Can I book a private transfer from Kemaro Island to the airport?
Yes, several local tour operators in Palembang offer private transfer packages that include a boat from Kemaro Island to a designated dock and a car waiting to take you to the airport. Prices range from 500,000–800,000 IDR ($32–$51 USD). It is advisable to book at least 24 hours in advance via your hotel or a trusted local agency.
Are taxis available at the ferry terminal to go to the airport?
Yes, taxis are available at Boom Baru Ferry Terminal, but they are less common than ride-hailing services. A taxi from the terminal to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport costs approximately 120,000–180,000 IDR ($7.50–$11.30 USD). Ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab are more readily available and slightly cheaper.
What time should I leave Kemaro Island to catch a flight?
For domestic flights, depart Kemaro Island at least 2.5–3 hours before your scheduled departure. For international flights, allow 3.5–4 hours. This accounts for the ferry crossing (15–20 minutes), land travel (30–45 minutes), and airport procedures (check-in, security). Ferries may run less frequently in the early morning or late afternoon.
Is it safe to travel from Kemaro Island to the airport at night?
Traveling at night is generally safe but requires extra caution. Public ferry services to Kemaro Island typically stop operating around 5:00–6:00 PM. If you have a late flight, you must arrange a private boat charter or stay on the mainland. Ride-hailing apps (Gojek/Grab) are safe and trackable at night. Always share your trip details with someone.
Can I use ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab from the ferry terminal to the airport?
Yes, Gojek and Grab operate extensively in Palembang. From Boom Baru Ferry Terminal, you can book a GoCar or GrabCar to Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport for approximately 90,000–130,000 IDR ($5.60–$8.10 USD). The terminal has adequate internet connectivity, and pickup points are clearly identifiable.