How to Get from Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport to Kemaro Island

Kemaro Island is a cultural and recreational island located on the Musi River in Palembang, famous for its Hok Tjing Rio temple and picturesque parks. As it is an island, all journeys from Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II International Airport (PLM) involve two legs: (1) land transport to a city port, and (2) a river boat to the island. There is no bridge or direct road access.

The airport is about 15–20 km northwest of downtown Palembang. The main ports for Kemaro Island are:

• Boom Baru Port: Most common, frequent public boats, near Ampera Bridge.
• 16 Ilir Port (Dermaga 16 Ilir): Alternative, slightly farther south.

Your choice depends on budget, time, group size, and comfort needs.

For families, groups, or those with limited time, booking a private car transfer combined with a pre-arranged boat is the most seamless option. Services can be booked online via platforms like Traveloka or local tour operators.

How It Works:

1. Driver meets you at PLM Airport arrivals with a sign.
2. Direct transfer to Boom Baru port (or another agreed port).
3. Private boat (like a *ketek* or small motorboat) is waiting to take you to Kemaro Island.
4. Boat can wait and return at your preferred time (usually 2–4 hours on the island is sufficient).

Details & Costs:

Vehicle Type	Approx. Car Cost (Airport to Port)	Private Boat Charter Cost (Return)	Total Approx. Cost (2-4 pax)	Total Time (Door-to-Island)
Standard Car (Avanza/Xenia)	150,000 - 250,000 IDR	200,000 - 400,000 IDR	350,000 - 650,000 IDR	1.5 - 2 hours
Minivan (Innova/APV)	250,000 - 350,000 IDR	250,000 - 450,000 IDR	500,000 - 800,000 IDR	1.5 - 2 hours

Pros: Door-to-door, no waiting, handles luggage, air-conditioned, flexible timing.
Cons: Most expensive option; requires advance booking.

Source: Palembang Tourism Board lists certified transport providers for tourist routes.

Official airport taxis (like Blue Bird or local operators) offer metered fares to the city. This is a good middle-ground if you want comfort but not the full private package.

Step-by-Step:

1. Take a taxi from PLM Airport taxi rank. Insist on using the meter (*argo*). Estimated fare to Boom Baru: 80,000 - 120,000 IDR (depending on traffic).
2. At Boom Baru port, buy a public boat ticket to Kemaro Island. Boats depart when full (usually every 20–30 mins). Fare: 15,000 - 25,000 IDR per person one-way.
3. Return: Take a public boat back to Boom Baru, then hail a taxi or ride-hailing app (Gojek/Grab) to your next destination.

Cost Breakdown (Per Person, Round Trip):

• Taxi (shared by 2): 40,000 - 60,000 IDR
• Public Boat (round trip): 30,000 - 50,000 IDR
• Total: 70,000 - 110,000 IDR

Note: Traffic in Palembang can be heavy, especially around the Ampera Bridge. Allow extra time during rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM).

Reference: Blue Bird Taxi official fare calculator indicates base meter start at 7,500 IDR plus distance.

For budget travelers and those seeking a local experience, the public bus system connects the airport to the city.

Detailed Route:

1. Airport to City: Take the Damri Airport Bus from just outside the terminal. Route: PLM Airport → Ampera Junction / Palembang Square. Fare: 20,000 IDR. Travel time: 45–60 minutes.
2. City to Port: From Ampera, you can:
   • Walk 15-20 minutes to Boom Baru port (if you have light luggage).
   • Take a *bajaj* (auto-rickshaw) or *angkot* (minibus) for ~10,000 IDR per person.
   • Use Gojek/Grab bike (5,000 - 15,000 IDR).
3. Port to Island: Public boat as above.

Total Budget Estimate:

• Damri Bus (return): 40,000 IDR
• Local transport to/from port: 20,000 IDR
• Public boat (return): 40,000 IDR
• Grand Total: ~100,000 IDR per person round trip.

Challenge: Not suitable with large luggage. Buses and boats can be crowded on weekends. Limited service hours (Damri bus runs ~5 AM to 8 PM).

Source: Damri official schedule for PLM Airport route confirms frequency every 1–2 hours.

Understanding your boat options is crucial for the final leg.

Public Boats (*Ketek* / *Perahu Motor*):

Small wooden motorboats with a roof, carrying 10–15 passengers. They operate on a fill-and-go basis. Safety standards vary; always wear the provided life jacket.

Private Boat Charter:

You can negotiate directly with boat captains at the port. Good for groups of 5–10. Agree on price, duration, and return time clearly beforehand.

Port Comparison:

Port	Distance from Ampera Bridge	Boat Frequency (Daytime)	Approx. Crossing Time	Notes
Boom Baru	~500 m walk	Every 20–30 mins	15–20 mins	Most tourist-friendly, amenities nearby.
16 Ilir	~2 km south	Every 30–45 mins	10–15 mins	Less crowded, slightly shorter river route.

Important: The last public boats usually depart from Kemaro Island back to the mainland around 5:00 PM – 5:30 PM. Don't miss the final return if you're not staying overnight.

This table summarizes key data to help you decide.

Option	Approx. Cost Per Person (Round Trip)*	Total Travel Time (One Way)	Comfort Level	Best For	Need Advance Booking?
Private Car + Boat	175,000 - 350,000 IDR (if 2 pax)	1.5 - 2 hrs	High (AC, direct)	Families, groups, time-pressed	Yes (recommended)
Airport Taxi + Public Boat	70,000 - 110,000 IDR	1.75 - 2.5 hrs	Medium	Solo/couple, flexible	No (taxi on spot)
Bus + Public Transport + Boat	~50,000 - 100,000 IDR	2.5 - 3.5 hrs	Low (basic, possible crowds)	Budget backpackers	No

*Costs are estimates for 2024 and can vary with fuel prices and negotiation.

Verdict: For most international tourists, Option 2 (Taxi + Public Boat) offers the best balance of cost, time, and convenience. Option 3 is the undisputed cheapest.

Essential Advice for a Smooth Trip:

• Luggage: If visiting Kemaro Island as a day trip upon arrival, use the luggage storage (Titip Bagasi) at PLM Airport. Carrying suitcases on boats is impractical.
• Cash is King: Have ample Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) in small denominations. Most boats, bajaj, and small vendors do not accept credit cards.
• Weather: The boat crossing can be wet during rain. Bring a raincoat or poncho, especially in the rainy season (Oct–Apr).
• Sun Protection: The boat ride and island exploration are mostly exposed. Use sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
• Bargaining: Negotiate fares for private boats and local transport politely but firmly. Establish whether the price is per person or per boat.
• Weekend Crowds: Kemaro Island is very popular with locals on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Expect longer waits for boats and crowds on the island. Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience.
• Combine Your Trip: Since you're going to the port area, consider visiting the Ampera Bridge and Kuto Besak Fortress on the same day, as they are nearby.

Insight from Local Tour Guides: Many recommend visiting Kemaro Island in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset over the Musi River and see the temple lights come on, but remember the last boat return time.