Quick Answer
The fastest and most convenient way to get from Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport (TNJ) to Bintan Island is by taking a taxi or private transfer to Tanjung Uban Ferry Terminal (approx. 15-20 minutes, IDR 150K-250K), followed by a public ferry to Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) or Tanjung Pinang Ferry Terminal on Bintan (approx. 45-90 minutes, IDR 100K-250K). The total journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours and costs roughly IDR 250K to 500K per person. For budget travelers, a combination of airport bus and ferry is the cheapest option.
Ferry Guide: Connecting Tanjung Pinang (TNJ) to Bintan Island
The ferry is the essential link between Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport (located on Tanjung Pinang, Riau Islands) and the main resort areas of Bintan Island. There is no direct ferry from the airport; you must first travel to a nearby ferry terminal.
Key Ferry Terminals
- From Tanjung Pinang Side (Departure):
- Tanjung Uban Ferry Terminal: Closest to the airport (~20km). Serves ferries to Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT).
- Sri Bintan Pura (Tanjung Pinang) Terminal: Further from the airport (~40km). Serves ferries to both BBT and Tanjung Pinang (Bintan) city.
- On Bintan Island (Arrival):
- Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT): The main terminal serving the northern resort area (Bintan Resorts, Laguna, Nirwana). Best for tourists heading to beach resorts.
- Tanjung Pinang City Terminal: On the southern tip of Bintan. Best for city stays or travel to other parts of Indonesia.
Ferry Operators, Schedule & Fares
Major operators include Bintan Resort Ferries (BRF) and Sancai. Schedules vary; booking in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends.
| Route | Operator | Approx. Duration | Approx. Fare (IDR) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanjung Uban → Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) | Sancai, BRF | 45-60 min | 100,000 - 180,000 | 6-8 trips/day |
| Sri Bintan Pura → Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) | BRF | 90 min | 200,000 - 250,000 | 3-4 trips/day |
| Sri Bintan Pura → Tanjung Pinang (Bintan) | Various | 60 min | 80,000 - 120,000 | Frequent |
Recommendation for Tourists: If your hotel is in the northern resorts, aim for the Tanjung Uban to BBT route. It's the quickest connection from the airport region.
Taxi & Private Transfer: Airport to Ferry Terminal
The most straightforward method from TNJ Airport is a road transfer to your chosen ferry terminal.
Airport Taxi (Official)
Upon arrival, head to the official taxi counter in the arrivals hall. Fares are fixed-rate. A trip to Tanjung Uban Terminal typically costs IDR 150,000 - 250,000 and takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic.
Private Pre-Booked Transfer
For a seamless experience, book a private car in advance via platforms like Klook or Pelangi Express. This is ideal for groups (up to 7) or those with lots of luggage.
Cost: IDR 300,000 - 500,000 for a car to Tanjung Uban, often inclusive of waiting time.
Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab/Gojek)
Services like Grab are available at TNJ Airport. They can be cheaper than official taxis but ensure your driver understands you're going to a ferry terminal. Prices are dynamic but expect ~IDR 100,000-180,000 to Tanjung Uban.
Bus & Shuttle Options: The Budget Choice
Public buses are the most economical way to reach the ferry terminals, but they involve more steps and time.
Damri Airport Bus
The Damri bus service connects TNJ Airport to Tanjung Pinang City (not the ferry terminal directly). From the city bus station, you'll need to take a local taxi or "opelet" (minivan) to Sri Bintan Pura Ferry Terminal.
Airport Bus Fare: ~IDR 25,000 per person.
Drawback: This option adds significant travel time (1+ hour) and is not recommended for travelers with heavy luggage or tight ferry schedules.
Resort Shuttle Services
Some major resorts in Bintan (e.g., Banyan Tree, Club Med) offer coordinated transfer packages that include both land and sea segments from TNJ Airport directly to the resort. Contact your hotel in advance to inquire about availability and pricing, which can be premium but hassle-free.
Renting a Car or Scooter at TNJ Airport
Note: Renting a vehicle is only useful for exploring Tanjung Pinang Island (where the airport is located). You cannot drive a rented car onto a ferry to Bintan Island. Most rental companies prohibit taking vehicles across on ferries.
- Use Case: Only consider this if you plan to stay and tour around Tanjung Pinang city before taking a ferry to Bintan on a separate day.
- Availability: Limited international brands. Local rental agencies may have counters at the airport or require advance booking online.
- Alternative: For flexibility on Bintan Island itself, rent a car or scoter after you arrive at Bintan's ferry terminals.
Cost & Time Comparison: Best Way from Airport to Bintan
This table summarizes all options from Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport (TNJ) to a resort in North Bintan (e.g., Nirwana Gardens).
| Option & Route | Total Approx. Time | Total Approx. Cost (per person) | Comfort & Convenience | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi + Ferry (Tanjung Uban → BBT) | 2 - 2.5 hours | IDR 250K - 450K | High (Direct, minimal waiting) | First-time tourists, families, comfort seekers |
| Private Transfer + Ferry | 2 - 2.5 hours | IDR 400K - 600K+ | Very High (Door-to-door service) | Groups, luxury travel |
| Grab + Ferry | 2 - 3 hours | IDR 200K - 350K | Medium-High | Solo travelers/couples, tech-savvy |
| Airport Bus + Local Taxi + Ferry | 3.5 - 4.5 hours | IDR 100K - 200K | Low (Multiple transfers, luggage hassle) | Ultra-budget backpackers |
Verdict: For most tourists, the Taxi/Grab to Tanjung Uban + Ferry to BBT offers the best balance of speed, cost, and convenience.
Traveler Tips & Insights for a Smooth Journey
- Book Ferries in Advance: Especially during peak seasons (weekends, Indonesian holidays, Dec-Jan), ferries can sell out. Book online via operator websites or travel platforms.
- Currency & Payments: Have sufficient Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) cash. While some ferry counters and taxi counters accept cards, drivers and small buses do not. ATMs are available at the airport and ferry terminals.
- Luggage Strategy: Pack light for the ferry ride. Luggage is stored in designated areas. Consider using a backpack for ease of movement during transfers.
- Time Buffer: Always factor in extra time for immigration (if international), traffic to the ferry terminal, and ferry check-in (typically closes 30 mins before departure).
- Connectivity: Purchase a local SIM card at the airport for navigation and booking ride-hailing apps. Wi-Fi at terminals can be unreliable.
- Seasickness: The sea crossing can be rough at times. If prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand and choose a ferry with an indoor, air-conditioned cabin.
FAQs: Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport to Bintan Island
Is there a direct ferry from Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport to Bintan?
No. There is no direct ferry from the airport itself. You must take a land transfer (taxi, bus) to either Tanjung Uban or Sri Bintan Pura Ferry Terminal first, then board a ferry to Bintan.
Which ferry terminal on Bintan should I go to?
Go to Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT) if your hotel is in the northern resort area (e.g., Nirwana, Laguna, Banyan Tree). Go to Tanjung Pinang City Terminal if you are staying in the city or traveling onward domestically.
How much is a taxi from TNJ Airport to the ferry terminal?
An official airport taxi to Tanjung Uban Terminal costs a fixed IDR 150,000 - 250,000. Agree on the price at the counter before departing.
Can I use Grab or Gojek at the airport?
Yes. Grab and Gojek operate at TNJ Airport. The pickup point is usually in the arrivals area. This can be a cheaper alternative to official taxis.
What is the cheapest way to get from the airport to Bintan?
The cheapest way is the Damri airport bus to Tanjung Pinang city (IDR 25K), followed by a local minivan/taxi to Sri Bintan Pura Terminal (IDR 20K-50K), then a public ferry to Bintan (from IDR 80K). Total can be under IDR 150,000, but it is time-consuming.
How early should I arrive at the ferry terminal before departure?
It is recommended to arrive at least 60-90 minutes before departure if you need to purchase tickets, and 30-45 minutes if you have pre-booked e-tickets for check-in and boarding procedures.
I arrive late at night. Can I still get to Bintan?
This is challenging. The last ferries typically depart around 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM. If your flight arrives after this, you will need to stay overnight in Tanjung Pinang and take the first ferry the next morning. Book accommodation in advance.
Is the JR Pass or any rail pass useful for this journey?
No. The JR Pass is for train travel in Japan. It has no validity in Indonesia. All transport from TNJ Airport to Bintan involves road vehicles (car/bus) and ferries.