Quick Answer
The best way to get from Brunei to Labuan Airport (LBU) is by direct flight with MASwings – 30 min flight, total door-to-door about 2 h 15 min, costing 80–150 BND (60–112 USD).
For a budget option, take the high‑speed ferry from Serasa Ferry Terminal: 1 h 15 min crossing, door-to-door ≈2 h 30 min, only 25–35 BND (18–26 USD).
Key transit hub: Labuan Ferry Terminal (for ferry) or Labuan Airport (for flight).
Pro tip: If you have heavy luggage and value time → fly. If you want a scenic, cheaper ride → ferry.
✈️ Flight from Brunei to Labuan Airport – The Fastest Way
Flying is the most time-efficient way to reach Labuan Airport (LBU) from Brunei. MASwings (the rural air service arm of Malaysia Airlines) operates the only direct scheduled flights between Brunei International Airport (BWN) and Labuan Airport (LBU).
Flight Details & Schedule
- Airlines: MASwings (code-share with Malaysia Airlines).
- Aircraft: ATR 72-600 (turboprop, 70 seats).
- Flight time: 30–40 minutes (block time).
- Frequency: 1–2 flights per day, not always daily; check MASwings schedule .
- Typical fare: 80–150 BND (60–112 USD) one-way, inclusive of basic baggage.
Door‑to‑Door Time Breakdown (Flight)
| Segment | Time |
|---|---|
| Bandar Seri Begawan → BWN (taxi/bus) | 15–30 min |
| Check‑in & security (recommend 60 min before) | 45–60 min |
| Flight BWN → LBU | 30–40 min |
| Baggage claim & exit LBU | 15–20 min |
| Total door‑to‑door | ≈ 2 h 00 min – 2 h 30 min |
Baggage & Seat Comfort
MASwings allows 20 kg checked baggage standard (varies by fare class). Carry‑on is limited to 7 kg. Seats on the ATR 72 are 2‑2 configuration; legroom is adequate for a 30‑min flight. No in‑flight meal service – just a light snack and water.
Real‑World Example
“I took the 9:00 AM MASwings flight from BWN to LBU in March 2025. Check‑in was smooth, we departed on time, and 32 minutes later we were on the ground in Labuan. The airport is small – I was outside with my bag by 9:50 AM. Quick and painless.” – Alex T., frequent traveler.
Source: MASwings Official Website | Brunei Tourism
⛴️ Ferry from Brunei to Labuan – Best Value for Money
The high‑speed ferry is the most popular way to travel between Brunei and Labuan Island. It strikes an excellent balance between cost, comfort, and scenic experience. Ferries depart from Serasa Ferry Terminal (about 20 min east of Bandar Seri Begawan) and arrive at Labuan Ferry Terminal (4 km from Labuan Airport).
Ferry Operators & Schedule
- Main operator: Jesselton & other local ferry companies.
- Vessel type: High‑speed catamaran, capacity 100–200 passengers.
- Crossing time: 1 h 15 min – 1 h 30 min.
- Frequency: 3–5 departures daily (typically 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:30 PM).
- Ticket price: 25–35 BND (18–26 USD) one‑way.
Door‑to‑Door Time Breakdown (Ferry)
| Segment | Time |
|---|---|
| Bandar Seri Begawan → Serasa Ferry Terminal (taxi/bus) | 20–35 min |
| Ticket purchase & boarding | 15–25 min |
| Ferry crossing Serasa → Labuan | 1 h 15 min – 1 h 30 min |
| Disembark & clear terminal | 10 min |
| Labuan Ferry Terminal → Labuan Airport (taxi) | 8–12 min |
| Total door‑to‑door | ≈ 2 h 15 min – 2 h 50 min |
On‑Board Experience & Luggage
Ferries are air‑conditioned, with assigned seats. You can bring up to 30 kg of luggage at no extra charge – much more generous than flight baggage limits. Snacks and drinks are sold on board. The ride is generally smooth, but on windy days it can be choppy – consider motion sickness medication if you are prone.
Real‑World Example
“I took the 10:30 AM ferry from Serasa to Labuan. The terminal is clean and easy to navigate. The ferry left on time and we arrived in Labuan at 11:50 AM. A taxi to the airport cost 18 MYR and took 10 minutes. Total cost: 30 BND ferry + 4 USD taxi – unbeatable value.” – Sarah L., backpacker.
Source: Brunei Tourism – Ferry Info | Labuan Airport Official
🚌+⛴️ Bus + Ferry Combination – The Cheapest Way
If you're on a tight budget, combining a local bus from Bandar Seri Begawan to Serasa Ferry Terminal with the ferry to Labuan is your most affordable option. Total cost: as low as 27 BND (20 USD).
Step‑by‑Step Guide
- Bus from BSB to Serasa: Take bus route 39 or 42 from the central bus terminal in Bandar Seri Begawan. Fare ≈ 2 BND (1.50 USD). Journey time: 35–45 min.
- Alight at Serasa Ferry Terminal: The bus stops directly outside the terminal building.
- Buy ferry ticket: Purchase a one‑way ticket to Labuan. Price: 25–35 BND (18–26 USD).
- Ferry to Labuan: 1 h 15 min – 1 h 30 min crossing.
- Bus from Labuan Ferry Terminal to Airport: Take local bus route 1 or 2 (≈ 2 MYR / 0.45 USD) to Labuan Airport. Buses run every 30–60 min.
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Bus BSB → Serasa | 2 BND (1.50 USD) |
| Ferry Serasa → Labuan | 25–35 BND (18–26 USD) |
| Bus Labuan Terminal → Airport | 2 MYR (0.45 USD) |
| Total | ≈ 27–37 BND (20–27 USD) |
What to Know
- Buses in Brunei are infrequent on weekends and public holidays – check the schedule in advance.
- The bus from BSB to Serasa runs roughly every 30–45 min on weekdays.
- This option takes 2 h 45 min – 3 h 30 min door‑to‑door – the longest but cheapest.
- Not recommended if you have more than one large suitcase – bus luggage space is limited.
🚕 Taxi / Private Transfer – Premium Convenience
Taxis and private transfers offer the highest level of convenience but come at a significant premium. This option is best for groups (3–4 people), travelers with heavy luggage, or those arriving late at night when ferries and buses are not running.
Options & Estimated Costs
| Service | Route | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi (BSB → Serasa Ferry Terminal) | One‑way, 20 km | 25–35 BND (18–26 USD) |
| Taxi (BSB → BWN Airport) | One‑way, 10 km | 15–25 BND (11–19 USD) |
| Private transfer (BSB → Labuan Airport, via ferry) | Door‑to‑door, includes ferry ticket | 120–200 BND (90–150 USD) |
| Private car + driver (full day) | BSB + ferry + Labuan | 250–350 BND (187–262 USD) |
When to Choose a Taxi / Private Transfer
- 🔹 Late‑night arrival – no ferries or buses after 5 PM.
- 🔹 Early‑morning flight from LBU – first ferry may not arrive in time.
- 🔹 Group of 3–4 – cost per person becomes comparable to ferry + taxi.
- 🔹 Mobility concerns – minimal walking and no luggage hassle.
- 🔹 Business traveler – time is money; door‑to‑door in under 2 h.
Real‑World Example
“My family of four took a private transfer from our hotel in BSB to Labuan Airport. The driver picked us up at 6:30 AM, drove to Serasa, helped with ferry tickets, and met us on the Labuan side to take us to the airport. Total cost: 180 BND – very reasonable for four people with eight bags.” – The Patel Family.
Source: Brunei Tourism – Taxi Services
📊 Cost & Time Comparison – All Ways from Brunei to Labuan Airport
| Mode | Travel Time (crossing) | Door‑to‑Door | Cost (one‑way) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flight | 30–40 min | ≈ 2 h 15 min | 80–150 BND (60–112 USD) | 0 (direct) | ⏱️ Speed & simplicity |
| ⛴️ Ferry | 1 h 15 min – 1 h 30 min | ≈ 2 h 30 min | 25–35 BND (18–26 USD) | 1 (taxi to airport) | 💰 Best value |
| 🚌+⛴️ Bus + Ferry | 1 h 15 min – 1 h 30 min | ≈ 3 h 00 min | 27–37 BND (20–27 USD) | 2 (bus + bus) | 🪙 Cheapest |
| 🚕 Taxi + Ferry | 1 h 15 min – 1 h 30 min | ≈ 2 h 20 min | 50–70 BND (37–52 USD) | 1 (taxi) | 👨👩👧👧 Groups / convenience |
| 🚗 Private Transfer (door‑to‑door) | ferry inclusive | ≈ 2 h 00 min | 120–200 BND (90–150 USD) | 0 (full service) | ⭐ Premium comfort |
🏆 Best overall: Ferry – unbeatable balance of cost, speed, and luggage allowance.
🏆 Fastest: Flight – 30 min in the air.
🏆 Cheapest: Bus + Ferry – under 30 BND.
Source: Data compiled from MASwings, Brunei Tourism and Labuan Airport.
💡 Traveler Tips & Experience – Insider Knowledge
🧳 Luggage – Use Takkyubin (Baggage Delivery)
If you're traveling with heavy suitcases and plan to use the ferry, consider using Takkyubin (door‑to‑door baggage delivery). While Takkyubin is more common in Japan, similar services exist in Brunei and Malaysia – ask your hotel to arrange delivery of large bags directly to your Labuan accommodation. This way you can travel light on the ferry and avoid luggage hassles.
🚉 Transfer Navigation – Serasa Ferry Terminal
Serasa Ferry Terminal is small but well‑organized. There is a café, waiting area, and ticketing counters. Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to buy tickets and clear check‑in. No advanced booking is usually needed for the ferry, but on weekends and public holidays it's wise to book a day ahead.
⚠️ Peak Season Warning – Avoid Crowds
During Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and Christmas/New Year, ferries and flights can sell out weeks in advance. Book your tickets at least 2–4 weeks ahead if traveling during these periods. Expect queues at both Serasa and Labuan terminals.
🌅 Scenic Tip – Sit on the Right Side
On the ferry from Serasa to Labuan, sit on the right‑hand side for the best views of the South China Sea and the approach to Labuan Island. On clear days you can see the outline of Mount Kinabalu in the distance.
💰 Money Matters
Brunei uses the Brunei Dollar (BND), which is pegged 1:1 with the Singapore Dollar. Labuan (Malaysia) uses the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Most ferry tickets can be paid in BND or MYR, but you'll get a better exchange rate using the local currency. ATMs are available at Serasa Terminal and Labuan Airport.
📱 Useful Apps & Contacts
- MASwings App – book flights and check schedules.
- Google Maps – works well for bus routes in BSB.
- Labuan Airport info: +60 87-418 222
- Serasa Ferry Terminal: +673 277 1394
Source: Brunei Tourism – Travel Tips | Labuan Airport Contact
❓ FAQs – Getting from Brunei to Labuan Airport
1. Is there a direct flight from Brunei to Labuan Airport?
Yes, MASwings operates direct flights from Brunei International Airport (BWN) to Labuan Airport (LBU). Flight time is about 30–40 minutes. Fares typically range from 80–150 BND (60–112 USD) one-way.
2. How long does the ferry from Brunei to Labuan take?
The high-speed ferry from Serasa Ferry Terminal (Brunei) to Labuan Ferry Terminal takes approximately 1 h 15 min to 1 h 30 min. Ticket prices are around 25–35 BND (18–26 USD).
3. What is the cheapest way to get from Brunei to Labuan?
The bus + ferry combination is the most budget-friendly option. Take a local bus from Bandar Seri Begawan to Serasa Ferry Terminal (≈2 BND), then the ferry to Labuan (≈25–35 BND). Total cost: about 27–37 BND (20–27 USD).
4. Can I drive a car from Brunei to Labuan?
No, there is no bridge or tunnel connecting Brunei to Labuan Island. You must take a ferry or a flight. If you bring a vehicle, you can use the roll‑on/roll‑off (RORO) ferry service, which requires advance booking and additional fees (≈50–80 BND / 37–60 USD for a standard car).
5. How do I get from Labuan Ferry Terminal to Labuan Airport?
Labuan Ferry Terminal is about 4 km from Labuan Airport (LBU). A taxi takes 8–12 min and costs around 15–20 MYR (3–4 USD). Alternatively, you can take a local bus (route 1 or 2) for about 2 MYR, but services are infrequent.
6. Is it better to fly or take the ferry from Brunei to Labuan?
Fly if time is your priority: total door‑to‑door time ≈2 h 15 min. Take the ferry if you want to save money and enjoy sea views: door‑to‑door ≈2 h 30 min but at half the cost. The ferry also allows you to bring more luggage without strict weight limits.
7. Are there overnight ferries from Brunei to Labuan?
No, there are no overnight ferry services on this route. The first ferry usually departs around 8:00 AM and the last around 4:30 PM. Plan your trip during daylight hours.
8. Do I need a visa to travel from Brunei to Labuan?
Labuan is part of Malaysia. Most nationalities, including ASEAN citizens, UK, US, Australia, and EU passport holders, do not require a visa for short visits (up to 90 days). Always check the latest entry requirements with the Malaysian Immigration Department before travel.