Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Syamsudin Noor Airport (BDJ) to Trisakti Port is by pre-booked private transfer or ride-hailing car (Grab/Gojek). This offers a direct, hassle-free journey. The trip takes approximately 45 to 75 minutes and costs between IDR 150,000 to IDR 300,000. The cheapest method is a combination of a Damri airport bus and local minibus, costing under IDR 50,000, but involving multiple stops and transfers.
Private Transfer & Ride-Hailing (Gojek/Grab) â Recommended
For convenience, speed, and value-for-money, booking a private car via an app or transfer service is the top recommendation for most travelers, especially first-time visitors or those with luggage.
Why It's the Best Option:
- Door-to-Door Service: No hauling bags between multiple stops.
- Fixed/Fair Pricing: Apps show the price upfront, avoiding negotiation stress.
- Ease of Booking: Available on-demand at the airport or can be pre-booked.
- Comfort & Safety: Air-conditioned, tracked journey, and driver details provided.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Connect to Airport Wi-Fi upon arrival to use ride-hailing apps.
- Head to the Designated Pick-Up Point: Follow signs for "Online Taxi" or "Ride-Hailing". Do not get solicited by drivers inside the terminal.
- Book Your Ride: Open the Grab or Gojek app. Set your destination to "Trisakti Port" (Pelabuhan Trisakti).
- Choose Your Vehicle: GrabCar/Go-Car (standard) is sufficient for 1-4 people. For groups or lots of luggage, select GrabCar 6/XL.
- Meet Your Driver: Confirm the car model and license plate.
Cost: IDR 150,000 â IDR 250,000. Prices surge during peak traffic or rain.
Travel Time: 45 mins â 1 hour 15 mins (traffic-dependent).
Pre-Booked Private Transfer Alternative: For guaranteed service, especially for groups or late arrivals, book with a reputable company like Booking.com's transfer service or KiwiTaxi. Cost: ~IDR 300,000+.
Official Airport Taxi
The traditional option, available 24/7 at the airport taxi counter. More expensive than ride-hailing but offers immediate availability and fixed rates to various zones.
How It Works:
- Proceed to the official Airport Taxi Counter in the arrivals hall.
- Tell the clerk your destination ("Trisakti Port"). You will pay a fixed fare based on the official zone price list.
- You receive a voucher with the fare and are directed to a specific taxi queue.
- Hand the voucher to the driver at the end of the trip. No additional payment unless you request extra stops.
Key Considerations:
- Price: Typically IDR 200,000 to IDR 350,000. Confirm the exact fare at the counter before paying.
- Advantage: No need for internet or smartphone. Official and regulated.
- Disadvantage: Usually 30-50% more expensive than a GrabCar for the same route.
- Operator: The main provider is often Banjarmasin Airport Taxi.
Tip: Always use the official counter. Avoid drivers offering rides inside the terminal, as they often charge inflated, non-fixed rates.
Public Bus & Local Transport â The Budget Adventure
This is the most economical route, ideal for solo backpackers, the very budget-conscious, or those with minimal luggage who aren't pressed for time. It involves at least one transfer.
The Two-Step Journey:
Step 1: Airport to City Center (Damri Bus)
The state-run Damri bus offers the cheapest transport from BDJ airport to several points in Banjarmasin.
- Where to Find It: Exit the terminal and look for the clearly marked Damri bus stop.
- Destination: Take the bus heading to "Terminal Banjarmasin" (the city's main bus terminal) or "Kawasan Banua Anyar".
- Cost: ~IDR 25,000 - IDR 40,000.
- Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes. Schedule aligns with flight arrivals but can be irregular.
- Travel Time to Terminal: ~45-60 minutes.
Step 2: City Center to Trisakti Port (Local Transport)
From your drop-off point, you need local transport to the port:
| Option | How to Find | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angkot (Minibus) | From Terminal Banjarmasin, ask for an angkot route to "Trisakti". Route numbers vary. | IDR 5,000 - 10,000 | Very local experience. May require multiple angkots. Tell driver your destination. |
| Gojek/Grab Bike | Use the app from your bus stop. | IDR 15,000 - 25,000 | Fastest last-mile option. Only for one person with a small backpack. |
| Becak (Cycle Rickshaw) | Available near terminals/markets. Negotiate. | IDR 20,000 - 40,000 | Slow and scenic for short distances only. Not ideal with luggage. |
Total Budget Trip Cost: IDR 30,000 â IDR 70,000.
Total Travel Time: 1.5 â 2.5 hours (highly variable).
Warning: This method is challenging with large suitcases, in hot/rainy weather, or if you don't speak basic Indonesian. Allow ample time for confusion and waiting.
Ticket, Cost & Time Comparison
Use this table to quickly compare all options and decide based on your priority: budget, speed, or convenience.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (IDR) | Travel Time | Transfers / Steps | Best For | Booking Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ride-Hailing Car (Grab/Gojek) | 150,000 â 250,000 | 45 â 75 min | Direct (Door-to-Door) | Most travelers, couples, families, value seekers | App (On-demand) |
| Pre-Booked Private Transfer | 300,000+ | 45 â 75 min | Direct (Door-to-Door) | Groups, late-night arrivals, those wanting certainty | Online in advance |
| Official Airport Taxi | 200,000 â 350,000 | 45 â 75 min | Direct (Door-to-Door) | Travelers without a SIM card/app, immediate departure | Counter at Arrivals |
| Damri Bus + Local Transport | 30,000 â 70,000 (Cheapest) | 90 â 150 min | 2-3 (Bus, then Angkot/Bike) | Solo backpackers, extreme budget travel, adventure | Bus Ticket + Hail/App |
Verdict: For a seamless start to your trip, Grab/Gojek is the best balance of cost and convenience. For absolute lowest cost, endure the bus+angkot combo.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Beyond the schedules and prices, here are practical insights to make your journey smoother.
1. Managing Luggage & The Port Area
Trisakti Port is a busy, sprawling area. If you have heavy bags and arrive early for your ferry, note that waiting facilities may be basic. There are small warungs (food stalls) but limited comfortable seating. A direct transfer minimizes time spent here with your luggage.
2. Traffic is Your Biggest Variable
Banjarmasin traffic, especially on Jalan Sutoyo Siswomiharjo and roads near bridges, can be heavy. Always add a 30-45 minute buffer to any estimated travel time if you have a ferry to catch. Rain will drastically slow traffic.
3. Payment Essentials
- Ride-Hailing: You can pay with cash (IDR) or link an international credit card to the Grab/Gojek app.
- Taxis/Buses: Cash (IDR) only. Have plenty of small denominations (IDR 20,000, 50,000 notes).
- SIM Card: Purchasing a local tourist SIM at the airport (like Telkomsel) is invaluable for using ride-hailing apps and maps. Kiosks are in the arrivals area.
4. Ferry Check-In Times
Most ferries from Trisakti Port require passengers to check-in at least 60-90 minutes before departure. Factor this into your total journey time from the airport. Rushing at the port is stressful.
5. Final Verification
When booking your ride, double-check that the destination is "Pelabuhan Trisakti" or "Trisakti Port". Some drivers may confuse it with other smaller docks. Showing the driver your ferry ticket can help.
FAQs: Syamsudin Noor Airport to Trisakti Port
Is there a direct train from Syamsudin Noor Airport to Trisakti Port?
No. The airport lacks a train station. You must use road-based transport (taxi, bus, car) for the entire journey.
What is the cheapest way to get from BDJ Airport to Trisakti Port?
The cheapest way is the Damri bus + angkot (minibus) combination, with a total cost potentially under IDR 50,000. It requires time, patience, and minimal luggage.
How long does the taxi ride from the airport to the port take?
Expect 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes by direct car or taxi. This can extend beyond 90 minutes during peak congestion periods.
Can I use Gojek or Grab from Syamsudin Noor Airport?
Yes, absolutely. They are highly recommended. Use the airport's free Wi-Fi to book from the designated online taxi pick-up zone.
What is the best option for late-night or early-morning arrivals?
Pre-booked private transfer or the 24-hour official airport taxi counter are your most reliable options. Ride-hailing availability may be spotty.
Is it easy to find a taxi at Trisakti Port to return to the airport?
It's possible, but not guaranteed. For a stress-free return, pre-schedule a pick-up via a ride-hailing app or your transfer company when you arrive at the port.
Are there any ferries directly from Syamsudin Noor Airport?
No. All ferries depart from river/sea ports like Trisakti, which are separate locations requiring overland travel from the airport.
What should I consider if I have a lot of luggage?
Choose a direct taxi, private transfer, or a larger ride-hailing car (GrabCar XL). The extra cost for door-to-door service is worth avoiding the hassle of moving bags on and off public transport.