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Penang Ferry: Ultimate 2024 Guide to traveling by sea between George Town and Butterworth

The iconic Penang Ferry has connected George Town with Butterworth for over a century, but things have changed in January 2021. Here's all you need to know about crossing the Straits Sea on the new ferry services for pedestrians, and how you can still ride on the old ferries.

Penang Ferry opened in 1894 as the only link between Penang island and the railway to Singapore . It’s still operating despite the two bridge links connecting Penang island to Seberang Perai — the mainland part of Penang state, where you can find the town of Bukit Mertajam , and beautiful places like Frog Hill , and Bukit Juru  — but since January 2021, there have been quite a few major changes.

Penang’s iconic double-decker ferries that used to shuttle pedestrians, cars, motorcycles, and bicycles are not currently operational — but the latest news in December 2022 announced they would make a comeback. However, from 1 January 2021, cars are no longer allowed and must use one of Penang’s two bridges.

Pedestrians can take the fast catamaran service , while boats for two-wheeled vehicles will not operate until 1 August 2023 — we still believe that any trip on the Penang ferry is one of the essential things to do in Penang .

Article Contents

What Changed for the Iconic Penang Ferry in 2021?

Penang Ferry, now under the administration of Penang Port Commission , was a very romantic and old-world way to reach Penang Little India in George Town (see what you can do with 48 hours in George Town and our itinerary for 3 days in Penang ). Pedestrians and vehicles would travel all together on the two decks, crossing the Straits Sea on an old-world ferry boat, looking at George Town’s skyline get closer as you sail on the sea with the first Penang Bridge on one side and the Butterworth port on the other.

But now, pedestrians have to take the smaller, faster catamarans that land a little further north than the former pier, which was close to most of Penang’s best street art , trendy Penang cafes , and some of George Town’s best 5-star hotels .

So what’s happening to the iconic old Penang ferries?

After nearly a century of service , the original iconic Penang Ferries ceased operations on 31 December 2020.

People have been quite concerned with what would happen to an iconic mode of transport like the old Penang Ferries, a genuine part of Penang heritage, after it has shuttled across the Straits Sea for so many years.

A furore ensued when one barge of the original fleet, the Pulau Pinang ferry, was found half-sunk at the Bagan Dalam slipway in Butterworth at the beginning of June 2021. Activists like Khoo Salma Nasution of Penang Heritage Trust said the vessel should have been salvaged immediately before more damage was done.

Finally, at the end of June 2021, the state government announced that five of the iconic Penang ferries would be transformed into floating attractions in the next 3 to 6 months.

The Pulau Pinang will be transformed into a floating Penang Ferry museum. Two other barges, the Pulau Kapas and Pulau Payar will become two floating restaurants, while the Pulau Talang Talang and Pulau Undan will transform into two tourist ferries. At last, the last ferry, Pulau Angsa, will be taken under the supervision of the tourism branch of the Penang State Government, which will turn it into a floating art space. That’s quite good news for the iconic Penang Ferries, which will have a new lease of life in Penang waters. Unlike what was forecasted, the project is not complete yet as of early 2023.

Penang Ferry Schedule and Operating Times (Updated 2023)

The new catamaran services that substitute the Old Penang Ferries for pedestrians are faster and run almost every hour, connecting George Town and Butterworth from early morning until 9 pm. The service then pauses until 7 in the morning. These are the latest departure times and schedules for the passenger catamaran ferries as of the year 2023:

From Butterworth to Penang First Ferry departs at  07.00 am. The last ferry departs at 20.30 pm.

From Penang to Butterworth First Ferry departs at  07.30 am. The last ferry departs at 9.00 pm.

A larger ferry is also dedicated to transporting two-wheeled vehicles (motorbikes and bicycles only) and leaving from the old ferry terminal in Penang (NOT Swettenham Pier).

From Butterworth to Penang First Ferry departs at  07.30 am. Other services run at 8.30 am, 9.30 am, 11.30 am, 1.30 pm, 3.30 pm, 4.30 pm, 5.30 pm, and 6.30 pm. The last ferry departs at 7.30 pm.

From Penang to Butterworth First Ferry departs at  07.00 am. Other services run at 8.00 am, 9.00 am, 11.00 am, 1.00 pm, 3.00 pm, 4.00 pm, 5.00 pm, and 6.00 pm. The last ferry departs at 7.00 pm.

Please note that this ferry service is not available until 1 August 2023.

Penang Ferry Telephone Numbers

If you need any information on departures, you can call the hotline at +60 4 3102 363 or any of these numbers:

Penang Side: 04 261 0290 / 210 2363 (duty officer)

Butterworth Side: 04 331 2796 / 310 2377 (duty officer).

How much does the Penang Ferry Cost? (Updated 2023)

The prices haven’t changed regardless of the upgrade. Remember that you only pay for a ride on Penang Ferry when you travel from Butterworth , the mainland side, to Penang island . The return ticket from Penang island is always free for pedestrians (traveling on the catamarans from Swettenham Pier) and two-wheeled vehicles (traveling from the Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda ferry terminal at the eastern end of popular Chulia Street).

Pedestrian Passengers Penang Ferry Service

Since January 2021, pedestrians are no longer allowed on the iconic Penang Ferries but on a new fleet of catamarans. Arriving from the mainland, you will board the catamaran at the same location, the Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim ferry terminal. This is connected to Penang Sentral, the main bus and transport hub of Penang state and Northwest Malaysia. Read our guide to catching a bus from Penang Sentral .

Follow the directions to the ferry until you will find the ticket vending booths. Queue up and buy your ticket. The fees are:

Adult : RM 1.20 Children (from 5 to 12 years old): RM 0.60

Once you receive your ticket, walk through a turnpike. Scan your ticket over the code-reading machine, and you’ll be let through. Ten meters ahead is a waiting area with chairs where you can wait for the next Penang Ferry departure.

Penang Ferry Service for Two-wheeled Vehicles

NOTE ON SUSPENSION OF SERVICES : From 1 January 2023, the Butterworth terminal for motorcycles and bicycles will be temporarily closed until July 2023 for upgrading work for the new ferries. Ferry service for two-wheeled vehicles will resume on August 1, 2023.

Don’t worry: speedboat services for pedestrian passengers will continue as normal.

If you have a motorcycle, 200 free sheltered parking slots are available to motorcyclists (from 6 am to 9 pm daily) at the terminal for easy access to the passenger speedboats.

Passengers can also use the free CAT Bridge bus from Seberang Jaya, which will continue as usual. There will also be free parking slots for motorcyclists (6 am to 9 pm daily) at the godown area in Swettenham Pier.

Additionally, a new free CAT Bridge bus service from BM Summit through Bandar Perda at Bukit Mertajam to Komtar on Penang island will start from 1 January 2023 onwards. New four-speed ferries are expected to arrive in June next year to replace the current fleet of speedboats.

When things get back to normal, the cost for two-wheeled vehicles should still be paid for a one-way trip as follows.

Bicycle : RM 1.40 Motorbike : RM 2.00

How is the new Penang Passenger Ferry?

The passenger ferries in Penang are like the fleet of ferries available in Kedah, for example, on the route from Kuala Perlis to Langkawi . You must arrive on both sides and queue up to board the ferry. There is a luggage bay inside where you can store your large bags before taking a seat. It’s padded and comfortable, but bring a sweater or a jacket because the air conditioning can be very strong.

Duration of a trip on Penang Pedestrian Ferry

A trip on the Penang Passenger Ferry it’s quick and takes around 15 minutes, depending on sea conditions.

What happens to cars if they can no longer board the Penang Ferry?

Even when the Penang ferries still shuttled cars, relatively few vehicles were on board. Most of the drivers preferred to get to the mainland faster by using one of the two Penang bridges. Indeed, the whole embarkation process used to take up to one hour, so using the bridges is a faster option — take the first Penang Bridge if you are driving from George Town, as the second is way too far south, near Penang Airport .

Location of Penang Ferry on the Butterworth side

The Penang Ferry on the Butterworth side is located behind Penang Sentral, the same location it had before the changes were implemented in January 2021. It’s about a kilometre from Butterworth Art Walk , where you would check out if you like murals and Penang Street Art . Here’s a map:

Catching trains after disembarking from Penang Ferry

Butterworth is one of the few cities in the world where the ferry, bus terminal, and train station are all interconnected and within walking distance from each other. Penang’s train station is actually in Butterworth and has trains connections to Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, the Thailand border at Padang Besar (read our guide on how to do a Thailand Visa Run from Penang ), Kuala Kangsar, and Taiping . We have written a handy guide on trains from Penang  where you can check more details on all the possible train routes.

In brief, once you return from Penang to Butterworth by the new Penang Ferry catamaran services, enter Penang Sentral, go to the lower ground floor and follow the directions to Butterworth train station. It takes about 10 minutes to walk.

Penang Ferry Location on Penang Island’s Side

Since January 1st, 2021, pedestrians cannot travel on the old Penang Ferries. They have to use the new catamaran service, which leaves from the Swettenham Pier Ferry Terminal, where boats usually travel from Penang to Langkawi. It is located opposite the Queen Victoria Memorial Clocktower and within walking distance of the upper end of Beach Street. The tourist enclave of Chulia Street is about 500 meters walk away. Here is a map:

Where to stay nearby Penang Ferry

Swettenham Pier is near the end of Beach Street and not far away from the old Penang Ferry terminal, which is very close to Chulia Street. Penang’s tourist enclave is filled with bars, trendy Penang cafes, restaurants, street stalls, and backpacker heaven. You can read about our guide on backpacker accommodation in Penang or, if you have more cash to splash, our guide on George Town’s best boutique hotels , Penang’s Best 5-Star Hotels , and budget hotels in Penang . Each of these hotels is within walking distance of Penang Ferry. You can also check our list of the best Penang Airbnbs , as there are several located on Karpal Singh drive close to the Penang Ferry port.

Places to stay in George Town near the two Penang ferry terminals

If you want to stay close to Penang Ferry, we recommend one of these three places

BUDGET Sim City Stay is a hostel set alongside Pengkalan Weld, perfect for backpackers or those who want to stay on a budget. It has dorms and singles on the first floor of a nondescript building . CHECK PRICES AND BOOK

MID-RANGE AND LUXURY Royale Chulan is just a few hundred meters down Pengakalan Weld, almost straight opposite the Penang Ferry. It’s a four-star hotel with large, comfortable rooms inside a restored British colonial building. A perfect option for some pampering without breaking the bank. CHECK PRICES AND BOOK

The Prestige is another luxe option that’s very close to Swettenham Pier. Renovated from a large colonial building, it has elegant rooms with flat-screen TVs and Nespresso machines, a restaurant, gym, and infinity pool. CHECK PRICES AND BOOK

If this is not what you are looking for, check many other accommodation options in George Town on Booking.com

Penang to Langkawi Ferry

Penang is connected by ferry also to Langkawi, another beautiful island in Kedah state, from the same Swettenham Pier. Langkawi, different from Penang’s cultural vibe, has plenty of nature and beaches and it’s a favorite tropical getaway for locals and international tourists. Read our complete guide on how to get from Penang to Langkawi and from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi .

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• Butterworth to Penang Ferry

The Butterworth to Penang Ferry is the traditional way to travel to Penang Island from the mainland. The ferry opened back in 1894 and was then the only way for railway passengers from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur to reach George Town. It is still the most convenient way for rail travellers to reach Penang Island. 

Update as at 2024.  

The old car ferries pictured above have been retired and replaced by more modern Fast Ferries for pedestrians only (vehicle owners have to drive over to Penang island via one of the bridges). The fare information, pier locations and timings given below have been updated as at January 2024.

Most vehicle traffic these days uses the two road bridges to Penang but the ferry, which carries passengers, bicycles and motorbikes, is a pleasant alternative for those not in a hurry. I travelled on the ferry some time ago (both ways) and found it a relaxing way to travel and very convenient for my hotel which was located just metres away from the ferry terminal at Weld Quay.

2024 Operating Hours & Timings

From Butterworth to Penang

• First Ferry departs 06.30 am.
• Last Ferry departs 11.00 pm. 

From Penang to Butterworth

• First Ferry departs 07.00 am.
• Last Ferry departs 11.30 pm. 

Ferries depart every 40 minutes during peak hours and every hour during off peak hours. You won't have to wait too long for your ferry. 

Duration of Ferry Journey

Depending on the currents and sea conditions the journey takes between 10 to 20 minutes. If you drive your car onto the ferry you can get out and walk about and enjoy the scenery. 

Fares (Updated January 2024)

Along with new ferries came new higher ticket prices although the rares are still fairly cheap.

These are single fares so double them for a return trip.

Pedestrians

• Adult RM 2.00
• Child (Ages 5 to 12) RM 1.00
• Students in Uniform RM 1.00
• Individuals with disabilities (with valid OKU ID) RM 1.00

Vehicle Ferry (for motorbikes and bicycles only) 

• Bicycles RM 2.00
• Motorbike RM 2.50 (including pillion rider)

Unlike the big old ferries, the new ferries do not take cars.

Location of Butterworth to Penang Ferry Terminal (Butterworth Side)

On the Butterworth (mainland) side the ferry pier is known as Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal and it is adjacent to a multi-story transport hub and commercial/shopping complex called Penang Sentral. A bus terminal and Butterworth KTM Railway station are connected to this complex although ongoing construction work means that the connection between train and ferry is currently not as seamless as it could be. The location is shown here:

Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal

Butterworth

Penang, 12000

GPS:  

5.394722, 100.363649

Location of Butterworth to Penang Ferry Terminal (Penang Side)

On the island, the ferry pier is conveniently located on Weld Quay in the heart of George Town's UNESCO World Heritage zone and you can walk to most of the city's top attractions nearby. The ferry pier is known as Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal and it is next door to Weld Quay Bus Terminal for smooth connection to the island's RapidPenang bus services if required.

The exact location of the Butterworth to Penang ferry pier is marked on this map:

Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal, Georgetown, 10300 George Town, Penang, Malaysia

5.413212, 100.344018

Take a look at my Penang Heritage Trail to see the myriad of attractions you can find close to the ferry terminal on Penang Island.

I recommend the Butterworth to Penang Ferry. Where else can you get a harbour cruise for just a few cents?

• Penang to Langkawi Ferry

If you are fond of ferries, how about taking a ferry from Penang to Langkawi , or vice versa? Ideal for tourists who want to experience both islands, this is probably the easiest and cheapest way to travel between the islands. It's quick too, since this is a 'super fast' ferry and the trip takes only 2 1/2 to 3 hours. 

 *(subject to conditions)

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• Ferry to Penang from Butterworth – Taking Rapid Ferry

Taking Ferry to Penang  is the easiest way to get from Butterworth to Georgetown. Penang ferry service called Rapid Ferry operates between the mainland and Penang Island . This way of travel is very convenient if you are taking a train or bus to Butterworth.

Penang Sentral

Penang Sentral  is the main transportation hub of Penang which is located in Butterworth,  Malaysia . It’s the main bus station of Butterworth and also the place where you can take a ferry to Georgetown.

Taking a bus to Butterworth and transferring to ferry at Penang Sentral is one of the best ways for getting to Penang from Kuala Lumpur or another city in Malaysia. 

Finding Ferry Terminal at Penang Sentral

Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal, which is the Penang ferry terminal on the mainland in Butterworth, is located just behind the building of Penang Sentral complex.

Once you arrive at Penang Sentral by bus, you find yourself on the first level. You need to get inside the building.

On the ground floor of Penang Sentral you will find the waiting area. For getting to the ferry terminal you need to go up to the 2nd level. Signs leading to the ferry are clearly seen everywhere.

On the 2nd level you will find bus ticket counters, shops, restaurants and money changer. 

For buying a ferry ticket you will need local currency (Malaysian Ringgit – MYR). If you don’t have any, change some money at the money changer there. More information about currency exchange at Penang Sentral can be found here: Currency Exchange at Penang Sentral in Butterworth .

The exit to Ferry terminal can be found right around the corner after passing KFC.

You just need to follow the sings and walk directly by the walkway.

On the way you will come to ticket counters. At least one of them will be open during operating hours.

Buy a ticket and proceed to the metal gates. Scan the ticket and you will be allowed to pass.

You will find yourself in the waiting area. The time of two next ferry departures is presented on the digital board. If the gate of the waiting area is open, just walk directly to the ferry.

Rapid Ferry is a car ferry service so don't expect much comfort there. However, the journey only takes about 15 minutes, depending on the conditions.

Penang Ferry Operating Hours

Ferries between Butterworth and Penang operate from 05:20 to 00:40.

The first ferry to Penang from Butterworth departs at 05:20, the last one - at 00:10.

The first ferry to Butterworth from Penang departs at 05:40, the last one - at 00:40.

Throughout the day ferries depart every 20-30 minutes. They are less frequent at night, after 22:00.

Penang Ferry Ticket Price

A ticket for a single journey by ferry to Penang costs only 1.20 MYR. 

Children (between 5 and 12 years old) pay 0.60 MYR only. 

More tips for traveling in Malaysia can be found here:  Malaysia Travel Tips .

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Strong Public Support for Revitalising Penang’s Iconic Ferry Vessels

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

• This paper considers the development of Penang’s ferry services, and makes suggestions on the utilisation of the old vessels, after their planned retirement in mid-2022. It also aims to inform decision-makers in designing adequate services that respond to real needs felt by the public.
• Issues of high maintenance, safety, sustainability, and low number of users have been cited as reasons behind the decision of retiring the 47-year-old ferry vessels.
• Based on a state-wide survey conducted by Penang Institute, 83.7% of 111 respondents call for the iconic vessels to retain its original function of transporting four-wheeler vehicles, two-wheeler vehicles, and pedestrians across the Penang Channel, in addition to the new catamarans. However, this should come with improvement in the service in terms of user-friendliness, particularly in punctuality, ticket-purchase system, cleanliness, and wheel-chair access.
• The Penang State Government currently owns one ferry vessel while the rest of the fleet belongs to the Penang Port Commission. The different managements and underlying political standpoints will likely result in varied functions for the ferry vessels.
• The state is recommended to improve efficiency and to take preventive maintenance measures, should it decide to maintain the transportation function of the sole double-decker ferry vessel it owns.

Introduction

Beginning 1 January 2021, Penang’s 47-year-old ferry vessels which used to transport both pedestrians and vehicles between the island and the mainland have been replaced by two fast boats carrying foot passengers between Swettenham Pier on the island and the Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal on the mainland. From 6.30am to 11pm, there is a trip every 20 to 30 minutes, making up 27 round trips per day. This is the interim solution put in place until 30 June 2022 while the existing ferry terminals are being upgraded to allow water buses and vehicular ferries for two-wheeler vehicles to dock (Liew, 2021). On 1 July 2022, the speedboat service will be replaced by catamarans and vehicle transporters. The catamarans will have a maximum capacity of 200 passengers and is expected to make 40 trips a day. Catamarans are easy to maintain, compared to the old ferries. In fact, the cost of repairing a ferry can reach up to RM2.2 million, involving difficulties in acquiring spare parts which need to be imported from Germany and Sweden (Bernama, 2020).

The remaining old ferries, Pulau Angsa and Pulau Talang-Talang, are still in service, but only to ferry two-wheelers. They will be retired once the existing ferry terminals are upgraded. Other commuters using four-wheeler vehicles will have to use either of the two Penang Bridges, as they can no longer board the ferries (Lo, 2021). The Penang Port Commission has made resolutions not to scrap the old ferries but to repurpose them as heritage references. While the Penang Public Transport Users Association (PETUA) lauds this resolution, it has also raised its concerns that the remaining old ferries should be preserved for their original function as a means of transport albeit now for recreational purposes. This resolution is preferred instead of the old ferry vessels being treated merely as floating museums and restaurants. (Liew, 2020).

Gifting of one ferry vessel to the Penang State Government

On 27 January 2021, the Penang Port Commission (PPC) gifted one of the iconic ferry vessels to the Penang State Government. The fate of this particular vessel is yet to be determined (Mok, 2021).

Meanwhile, a Request for Proposal to lease its ferry vessels will be advertised by PPC soon. Bidders may lease the vessels either as floating museums or tourist restaurants. The term of the lease is for 10 years, with the option to extend for another five (Mok, 2021).

Public Opinion on the utilisation of the old ferry vessels

Below are data based on 111 responses from a survey entitled ‘Penang Ferry Service Survey’, which was conducted between 11 January 2021 and 10 February 2021 on Penang Institute’s social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The survey was also shared among users on their own social media pages. The respondents are born and/or are residing in Penang and/or identify as a Penangite. It was designed for respondents to only answer questions they are comfortable with, for the purpose of gauging the importance they attach to the issue, and/or their interest in different aspects of the issue.

In general, a majority of the respondents call for the preservation of at least one iconic ferry vessel to retain its original function of mass transporting four-wheeler vehicles, two-wheeler vehicles, and pedestrians, even after the set date of the retirement of the ferries on 1 July 2022. However, much improvement needs to be made to the ferries and to the service in order to keep it an attractive mode of transportation across the Penang Channel. Recurring comments from the survey suggest the need for punctuality of ferry departures, cleanliness, and improvements on user-friendliness, for example in terms of digitalising ticket purchase and making the service more accessible for wheelchair users.

While it is understood that upkeeping the iconic ferries is costly, it is nevertheless worth it to preserve them as closely to their original function as possible, as they are a part of Penang’s identity and cultural heritage. We may look at the example of Hong Kong’s Star Ferry for inspiration on keeping iconic ferries relevant and sustainable.

1. Preservation of old ferry vessels as mass public transport

As indicated in the chart below, 79.3% of the 111 respondents feel that the old ferry vessels should not be completely retired as a means of mass public transport after 30 June 2022, which is the current plan (Figure 1). 83.7% of the respondents feel that at least one of the ferry vessels should be kept in its original function, i.e. to serve pedestrians, two-wheeler vehicles, and four-wheeler vehicles (Figure 2). This is most probably due to the idea that the ferry vessels are iconic of Penang, as agreed to by 95.4% of 110 responses (Figure 3). In addition, with the Covid-19 pandemic, respondents voice preference for using the old ferries due to their open-air nature over the temporary speedboats used for pedestrians. The speedboats have less air ventilation and offer less chances of social distancing as compared to the old ferries.

Figure 1: Percentage of agreement to the complete retirement of iconic ferries as transporters after 30 June 2022.

Figure 2: Percentage of agreement to having at least one iconic ferry vessel remaining in service (serving pedestrians, two-wheeler vehicles, and four-wheeler vehicles), after the upgrade of the ferry terminals.

Figure 3: Percentage of agreement that the old Penang ferry vessels are iconic to Penang’s identity.

2. Areas for improvement if ferries remain as a mode of mass transportation

There has no doubt been a general downward trend in the total number of users of the ferry services from 2011 onwards. While the number of cars and pedestrians using the ferry to cross the Penang Channel increased slightly from 2017 to 2019, the number of lorries, motorcycles, and bicycles decreased within the same period (Table 1). This indicates that users are resorting to the two Penang Bridges to cross the Penang Channel. According to the survey, various changes are needed to improve the ferry services, and thus to increase the number of users.

Table 1: Number of users by modes of transport which used the Penang Ferry service, 2017-2020 (3rd Quarter)

• Punctuality of departure times

One of the most common comments from the survey on improving the ferry services is the need for punctuality of departure times. While 84.7% of 111 respondents agree that they do not mind the slow ride on the ferries (Figure 4), the long waiting time at ferry terminals discourages many users from using the ferry service. A study on ferry users in Norway shows that travellers’ time spent on ferry terminals is substantially wasted compared to when when they use other modes of transportation (Small, 2012). For travellers, the more trips a public transport is able to make, the better it is (Jørgensen and Solvoll, 2018). This is because waiting time is significantly reduced (Hanssen et.al., 2020). Prior to 1 January 2021, Penang ferry services operated at 40-minute intervals (Mok, 2020). In addition, there is a need for better clarity and accuracy in displaying departure times of the ferries. While there are TV screens at the ferry terminals showing the departure times, the information displayed were usually inaccurate. Clear live updates on departure times for upcoming rides are needed, and possibly via online social media platforms too.

Figure 4: Percentage of respondents who do not mind the slow ride on the Penang ferries

• Integration with public transport system

Another issue raised by survey respondents was the need for synchronisation with other means of mass public transports, especially for connecting commuters to the trains (KTM Butterworth at Penang Sentral) and public and/ or express busses. The poor connectivity and integration of the ferry service with the public transport service inconvenience travelers.

• Digitalising ticket purchase system

Digitalising the ticketing system into a cashless system will allow users to purchase tickets beforehand, tap through and board the ferry seamlessly. This would reduce crowding and ease the onboarding process as travelers are usually in a rush when the ferry is about to depart. Otherwise, allowing passengers to tap through with their Touch ‘n Go cards, debit cards, or prepaid IC would also make ticket purchase much more convenient, as less and less people carry cash with them today.

• Accessibility for wheelchair-users and travelers with luggage

In line with the Penang2030 vision of increasing livability of senior citizens and special needs groups, user-friendliness needs to be enhanced at ferry terminals as well as on the ferries. Ramps for wheelchairs and luggage are crucial in enabling users with different needs to travel on the ferries. Travelers on the ferries are often also connecting travelers to train and bus services, who undoubtedly have luggage with them. The lack of ramps, elevators and escalators inconveniences users.

• Cleanliness

The façade of the ferries generally has a greasy look, which is rather unsightly. Having a cleaner, and thus more aesthetically-pleasing ferry would offer passengers better comfort and give the state a better image.

• Upgrade to environmentally sustainable options in ferry engine

Engine issues are often the cause of disruption to the ferry services. On top of that, the fumes the ferries produce cause pollution. It would be ideal to upgrade the ferries with low-emission technologies to be more environmentally-friendly.

3. Suggestions on diversifying function of ferries to keep it relevant for today’s users

While Penang’s ferries are unique to the state, it would be wise to learn from other iconic ferry services in the region to understand why and how these are kept sustainable, practical, and relevant. One such ferry service is Hong Kong’s Star Ferry service. Diversifying the function of the iconic ferries, for example, would allow them to continue being relevant, popular, and possibly create a source of revenue.

I. Ferry hire Apart from being a mode of mass public transport, Hong Kong’s Star Ferries are available for hire for events like wedding cocktails, private parties, corporate events, and new product launches. It is a sought-after venue due to the close-up view it offers of Victoria Harbour. This could be replicated with Penang’s ferries with the right expertise, manpower, and management.

II. Water tours In Hong Kong, a designated environmentally-friendly ferry which runs a distinctive tourist service not restricted to plying within Victoria Harbour but beyond the harbour brings tourists and locals to different destinations in Hong Kong’s waters via an unprecedented route. Similarly, this can also be replicated with Penang’s ferry service by plying beyond the George Town-Butterworth route, to head north towards Straits Quay or south towards the first Penang Bridge. This would potentially be an attraction for tourists and locals.

While it remains to be seen if the old ferry vessels will be permanently anchored and solely used for heritage and/ or tourism purposes, or if any of the vessels will continue to function as a mode of transportation, it is clear that they represent a part of Penang’s identity, and should continue to closely mirror its original function. With one ferry vessel belonging to the Penang State Government and the rest of the fleet belonging to PPC, there will undoubtedly be differences in opinions and management of the ferries. It is understandable that expensive and frequent maintenance, and insufficient volume of commuters drove the decision to retire the existing 47-year-old double-decker ferries.

Be that as it may, the survey shows how Penangites view the ferry service and it is clear that it would be a shame to anchor the iconic ferries permanently. Ideally, the old ferries should be kept running concurrently with the new catamarans and vehicle transporters when they arrive in mid-2022.

For list of references, kindly download the document to view.

Editor: Ooi Kee Beng Editorial Team: Sheryl Teoh, Alexander Fernandez, Tan Lii Inn and Nur Fitriah (Designer)

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New Penang ferry users to enjoy free rides for one month from Aug 7

Saturday, 08 Jul 2023

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Penang solar farm plan being floated, ncer records rm31.38bil investments in penang in 1h24.

GEORGE TOWN: Penang residents and tourists can enjoy free shuttle ferry service between the island’s Raja Tun Uda Base (PRTU - Swettenham Pier cruise terminal) and Sultan Abdul Halim Base (PSAH) in Butterworth for one month starting Aug 7.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said four new ferries (about RM15mil each) have arrived in Penang and Penang Port Sdn Bhd will use the four weeks as a trial period to carry out various exercises.

"This four-week training, among others, involves ferry pilots and at the same time, the Marine Department will commission these four ferries.

"This new ferry service will operate from Aug 7, starting 6am to 8.30pm, while the frequency at peak times is every 30 minutes, of which the time taken for a one-way trip is 10 minutes (old ferry, 20 minutes).

"When it starts operating on Aug 7, all passengers including non-citizens can enjoy this ferry service for one month without paying any fare,” he said when inspecting the new ferries here today (July 8).

In terms of capacity, the ferry can accommodate 150 passengers and 50 motorcycles and bicycles (only two-wheelers).

He added that up to three ferries will operate every day with one ferry placed on standby.

Loke said the new ferries were developed with a state-of-the-art concept and full safety features including closed circuit cameras (CCTV).

When asked about the fare once the free operating period ends, Loke said this matter will be announced later after discussion and agreement with the Penang Port Commission (PPC) but he assured that the fare introduced later will be reasonable. - Bernama

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Tags / Keywords: Penang , ferry , Anthony Loke

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Best Memories Of Iconic Penang Ferry

The iconic Penang Ferry Service will end.

The oldest ferry service will cease operations and be replaced by “fast ferries,” similar to the ones used in Langkawi from Jan 1.

This sudden news saddened many Penangites and travelers.

Many have fond memories and unforgettable nostalgic rides of the iconic ferry service.

“Thhoot!” He blares the horn in deep resonance, followed by garbled noises from the speakers above.

Then the floor beneath you moves as the ferry leaves its dock.

Unless you are a regular commuter, the ferry ride is quite an exhilarating experience.

Safety regulations are unheeded as passengers flock to watch their approach to the island.

Even those on the lower deck leave their vehicles for a closer feel of the wind in their faces.

What is it about this is-minute ride that leaves you dizzy for a moment?

Might it be the overwhelming oil fumes in the air, or is it the stirring sight that augments before you?

Waves lap at the feet of century-old waterfront structures, with contrasting modern buildings looming behind, against the painted backdrop of verdant hills and clear blue sky.

This is Penang.

[Excerpt from Ooh Penang Beyond the Viewfinder 2003 – Author: Chan Suan Choo]

History Behind Penang Ferry Service

“PULAU Talang Talang sedia untuk berlepas (Pulau Talang Talang is ready to depart),” the voice booms over the public announcement system.

It quickly follows this with two short blasts of the ship’s horn.

Almost immediately, the entire vessel shudders as its powerful engines below deck effortlessly nudge the submerged propellers to life.

Fortunate to get a choice position right next to the metal railing at the upper deck bow.

I join the dozens of excited holidaymakers and regular commuters enjoying the scenic landscape as the ferry slowly glides towards Pengkalan Raja Tun Uda, our disembarkation point on Penang Island.

[Excerpt from History Behind Penang’s Popular Ferry Service Unveiled, New Straits Times 2018 – Author: Alan The Leam Seng]

Penang Ferry History – How did the Penang Ferry Service Begin

The Penang Ferry Service began in 1894, 126 years ago, as a cross-strait shuttle ferry service within Penang’s State crossing the 3km ferry route.

Quah Beng Kee, an entrepreneur from Penang Island, started the regular service.

Together with his four brothers forming a company named Beng Brothers.

From 1924, the ferries were operated by the Penang Port Commission (formerly Penang Harbour Board) through its subsidiary, Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPC)

Initially a passenger-only service, the ferries were refitted to carry automobiles in 1925.

In 2017, the Malaysian federal government transferred the ferry service from PPC to Prasarana Malaysia, a government-owned entity that manages urban public transportation across Malaysia.

Following the handover, Prasarana Malaysia Berhad rebranded the ferry service as Rapid Ferry.

Pulau Talang Talang & Pulau Angsa

What I remember most about the Penang Ferry Service was my beloved Pulau Angsa.

Many people remarked how slow it was.

Every time the passengers sighted  Pulau Angsa , coming across the Malacca Strait, they knew they would be late for work.

Why Are The Penang Ferry Named After Islands?

The Penang Ferry is named after islands in Malaysia.

The ferries have names of famous Malaysian islands such as Pulau Pinang, Pulau Redang, Pulau Tioman, and others.

Why are these ferries named after islands?

Wouldn’t it be better to name them after some local Penang personalities?

One name of the ferries, Pulau Pinang, has a misleading name.

A friend told me he waited for nearly three hours one day for his relative coming from another state to George Town.

He wondered why his relative took such a long time to arrive at George Town on the island.

They finally solved the mystery when his relative told him he was waiting for the ‘Pulau Pinang’ ferry.

He said he did not dare to embark on ferries such as ‘Pulau Redang’ and others that came to port.

Confusion may arise and cause the same problem to others, but most tourists come to Penang.

Pulau Angsa. Photo: R. Mahgeshan.

What Are The Names Of The Penang Ferries?

These are the last two iconic cross-strait ferries in operation that were built in 1975 and 1981.

The older Pulau Talang Talang and Pulau Angsa are well-known ferries.

Other notable Penang Ferry with year built, class, and status.

• Pulau Labuan 1971 (passenger) retired.
• Pulau Rawa 1975 (mixed) out of service
• Pulau Undan 1975 (diverse) in service
• Pulau Rimau 1980 (hybrid) out of service
• Pulau Angsa 1981 (mixed) in service
• Pulau Kapas 1981 (mixed) in service
• Pulau Payar 2002 (vehicle) in service
• Pulau Pinang 2002 (auto) in service

At one time, there were seven ferries in operation.

The older vessels have been a bane for the operators, as they are prone to breakdowns as there were no spare parts to maintain the ferries.

The Penang Ferry Service – Penang Port Commission (PPC).

My Dad was a fitter with the Penang Port Commission (PPC).

He served in Bagan Dalam Dockyard (Butterworth).

The pier is where all the PPC’s sailing crafts are repaired, serviced, and overhauled.

The Penang Ferry plies the Penang to Butterworth route, and vice versa, is sent here for repairs.

In the 60s, you will notice many Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) service members on their daily commute from their homes in Tanjong Bungah to the Air Base in Bagan Ajam.

Shopping in Duty-Free Penang Island

During its heydays as a duty-free island, Penang drew Malaysians hungry for shopping adventures to the island.

Many people from other states would park in Butterworth, walk to the terminal, or pay extra to drive their cars to the island using the ferry service.

My cousins, who lived on the mainland, would take the train to Butterworth train station (Perai) and get a free ferry ride to Penang.

My cousins remembered wearing new double shirts, pants, and brand-new shoes at home.

Sometimes the kids would perch on top of taxable items.

Many parents would place their shopping in places inside the car to evade paying taxes.

The Ferry Ride in the 60s.

The seas were clearer and calmer.

Children would count giant white jellyfish vs. the smaller red jellyfish in the waters as they ply across to Butterworth’s side.

Sometimes we could see a school of sizeable sharp-pointed head fish swimming in the waters.

We love to spot the large ships in the harbor and identify the countries from the ship’s names and their flags for the children and adults.

There were even Chinese sailing junks reminiscent of what I saw in Hong Kong harbor.

At night, we always enjoyed the glowing florescent as the waves hit the ferry.

As of 1967, Penang’s free port status has been abolished altogether.

After so many years, I still remember the smell of fresh salty sea breeze and the sound of waves breaking on the ferry.

The hot oily odor from the engine floor of the ferry is an unforgettable stench.

I recall the same smell on my Dad’s clothes if he had overhauled the engine.

The car wheels’ sound clanked sharply as each vehicle rolled over the ramp from the ferryboat to the terminal.

Moments of taking a journey together, the endless laughter, most extended chats, and beautiful times shared with family are priceless.

While many Penangites feel sad that the iconic ferry is “retired,” – I wanted to record the sweet, delightful memories.

We capture the essence of what makes Penang – truly PENANG .

It is the fierce love Penangites for all things we hold dear in our hearts.

Many of us didn’t have the photos to show, cameras were expensive, and professional photographers’ studio shots were reserved for special occasions.

We capture a memory piece whenever we blink – our eyes take little photographs we file away.

Let’s indulge in our fond memory of how life was in the 60s and 70s.

Memories of Penang Ferry—Watching Dolphins Race Ahead by Yew TH

I remember seeing grey Dolphins swimming ahead of the ferry when I was a child.

I used to take the Penang Ferry from ages 5 to 17 years old.

The same fascination for me was to walk out of the cabin to the front of the ferry n to the back of the ferry to see the churning water.

Photo: Izza Safina Ibrahim.

Memories of Penang Ferry–Journey Home During Uni Days by Kathireen Kalaivani Rajamanickam

I was an undergraduate in Politeknik Sultan Mu’adzam Shah, Jitra, Kedah, from 2000 to 2003. I used the Penang Ferry frequently to head home.

When I was young, the movable backrest of the long row of seating fascinated me.

It intrigued me when moving the backrest, so we got to sit facing the direction the ferry was heading.

Maybe that was how I got interested in engineering as a child.

It is always a comfortable ride crossing the straits—I enjoyed the view of the sea and distant white British Colonial Buildings.

My university days’ best memory was the ferry ride home, knowing that my late Dad would wait patiently to pick me up at the terminal.

Memories of Penang Ferry–My Daily Commute From Butterworth by Izza Safina Ibrahim

I moved to  Penang  in 2016, and we got an apartment in  Butterworth  with a direct view of George Town from the balcony with a bonus of the Penang ferry going back and forth across the straits.

I traveled for a bit previously, and I’m drawn to the waterfront cities with water buses.

Penang waterfront rivals Shanghai, Hong Kong, Seoul, Paris, London, New York, Perth, and Sydney.

The iconic ferry is a treasure, and I wish to be around for heritage purposes, if not as a transportation mode.

I used to ride the ferry returning from work to rest as cars were stationary in the queue and the 25-minute sail.

Somehow crossing the ram still gives me chills, and I am sad we can no longer experience it comes 2021.

Everyone has fond memories of Penang Ferry. Most are taken aback, as it’s too sudden. There will be a long queue to ride the ferry now.

Memories of Penang Ferry–Bonding Time With My Father by Jeffery Chew

Penang Ferry reminds me of my late father and our happy time traveling together.

My father was a land valuer and auctioneer.

I followed him whenever he headed to Butterworth for his projects.

We would spend many happy hours together.

He would drive his car onto the Penang Ferry to travel to the mainland.

Back then, there was never a bridge.

That was 45 years ago.

Truly nostalgic, just remembering the good old days.

Jefferson and Cornelious (10 and 9) stand at the Penang Ferry railing. Photo: Jeffrey Chew

Memories of Penang Ferry–My Grandmother’s Journey by Priya Pubalan

For my late grandmother, the Penang Ferry ride symbolizes Merdeka and a happy day out with her friends.

In the 1940s, she used to make the annual Merdeka Day trips from the mainland to visit Tunku Abdul Rahman, our beloved First Prime Minister, at his residence on Ayer Rajah Road.

As my grandmother was a Merdeka baby, Tunku and his wife, who served her local ‘Kuih,’ received her well.

For years, my grandmother celebrated her birthday this way until the demise of Tunku.

The Penang Ferry holds a special place in my heart, a nostalgic feeling about my late grandmother.

The twenty cents ferry ride may be ordinary to others, but it reminds me of most of Granny’s stories about Penang.

Penang Ferry Memory—The Dinner Cruise by Ayu Yusoff

As a restaurateur, my most memorable catering event was the Sale and Dine Penang Ferry Dinner cruise.

Seeing our foreign guests so excited and enjoying themselves as I served them was truly remarkable–that was the night I discovered my passion for organizing events.

Photo: Paul Ang and Ayu Yusoff.

Memories of Penang Ferry–Sail Away Holiday by Paul Ang

In the 90s, I was still studying in primary school.

My aunt would take me to Esplanade for Spicy Mee Goreng Sotong and a glass of creamy coconut shake for lunch.

Later, we would head out to the pier and ride her motorbike onto the day’s highlight, the Penang Ferry ride.

My little prized reward for my school accomplishments was a simple round trip to the Butterworth and back.

To an impressionable schoolboy, the experience of leaving Penang Island on this unique vessel made me dream of a world beyond the blue yonder.

As we crossed the ferry straits, I felt like I was traveling away on holiday.

Photo: Paul Ang

My Memories of the Penang Ferry by Mazeta Hassan

Back then, we were an isolated island, and our only physical link with the mainland was via these beautiful old ferries.

It isn’t easy to describe the excitement, especially during the school holidays we felt as kids.

My late Uncle, Haji Abdullah Bin Haji Bashir (Pak Lah), had a long association with the ferry services, having worked with the Penang Port Commission.

“Pulau Talang Talang akan bertolak sekarang! ” followed by the sound of the horn, as I could still remember.

As a little girl, I remembered standing at the foredeck, peering over the rail, looking for jellyfish.

The ferries have been an integral part of Penang’s history.

Who in their right mind would even consider removing these iconic symbols of Penang’s past?

I cannot imagine a Penang without the dual-purpose vehicle passenger ferry. 🌹

Left photo: Haji Abdullah Bin Haji Bashir with an unidentified Captain. Right photo: YM Raja Fauziah Raja Harun Al Rashid with her father-in-law, Tuan Haji Amin Bin Ahmad. Photos: Mazeta Hassan’s collection

Penang Ferry Terminal Collapse Tragedy in 1988

Memories are memories.

Some are neutral, many are nostalgic, and others remember powerful emotions and trauma.

I was in my 20s when the tragedy of the collapse of the ferry terminal boardwalk happened.

It was the unusual peak hours, and no one anticipated the surge of the crowds.

On Jul 31, 1988, the Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal (Penang Ferry Jetty) in Butterworth suddenly collapsed.

The jetty’s steel bars structure buckled because of severe overcrowding and the sudden increase in live load.

It was a disaster that caused the deaths of 32 people and injured 1,634 people.

Two Simultaneous Festivals

The cause of the collapse because of extreme overcrowding at the Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal.

There were about 10,000 people who wanted to attend the two simultaneous festivities.

Most victims were pilgrims attending the St Anne’s Feast in Bukit Mertajam and the island’s Kuan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) festival.

According to the Chinese calendar, tourists from Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and local devotees attended the once-in-a-lifetime occasion Kuan Yin Festival held every 60 years.

Similarly, St. Anne’s Church in Bukit Mertajam was holding a significant festival for its anniversary.

After the terminal ferry tragedy, many motorists moved to use the Penang Bridge, further from George Town, to cross over to Butterworth daily.

Memories of Penang Ferry – Penang Ferry Jetty Terminal Collapse Tragedy in 1988 By Queenie Lo

From 1980 to 1984, I taught in Baling, Kedah, and traveled daily by driving my car to board the Penang ferry.

One of my Dad’s workers, a muscular young man, was at the terminal on the eventful day when Sultan Abdul Halim’s ferry terminal bridge collapsed.

The young man, Mr. Ling Wai Hoong, helped rescue many victims to come out of the wreckage.

At the time of the tragedy, Mr. Ling had left working with my Dad to become a Kung Fu Sifu.

Mr. Ling has a compassionate heart. I remember he has helped several older people apply to stay in the old folks’ homes.

We were so shocked as the ferry was my late Dad’s and his workers’ daily transport to the workshop in Butterworth.

After the Penang Ferry Terminal tragedy, people started to use Penang Bridge.

Photo: Tankiasu

Replacing the Penang Ferry Services With Pedestrian Only Catamarans

Penang is hoping that the federal government will not retire the last two iconic ferries when

Transport Minister Wee Ka Siong’s plans to introduce a pedestrian-only catamaran pass.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, informed of the new plans recently, hoped the ministry would allow the last two vessels to operate and look into reviving the other vessels put out of service.

It was also reported that the ferries were a loss-making venture, with operators losing RM30 million annually.

What is the configuration of the Penang Ferry?

Each ferry has two decks.

All ferries carry only vehicles (cars and motorcycles) for easy roll-on/roll-off.

The upper deck can only be for passengers, mixed passengers, and vehicles, depending on the ferry model type.

What is the Penang Ferry Services Schedule?

Traveling overland to Penang, you can use the Penang Ferry (Feri Pulau Pinang), which runs between Butterworth on mainland Malaysia and George Town on Penang Island.

Penang Ferry Services Operating Hours (Schedule) 2020

Butterworth to george town ferry schedule.

05:20 am – Butterworth First Ferry

00:10 am – Butterworth Last Ferry

Penang Island to Butterworth Ferry Schedule

05:40 am – Penang First Ferry

00:40 am – Penang Last Ferry

The Penang Ferry runs approximately every 20 to 30 minutes and takes about 15 to 20 minutes to cover the 3 km distance from Butterworth to George Town.

After 10 pm, the frequency is lower, with only a single departure every 60 minutes.

What is the duration of the Ferry Journey?

Depending on the currents and sea conditions, the journey takes between 10 to 20 minutes. If you drive your car onto the ferry, you can leave, walk about, and enjoy the scenery.

Penang Ferry Services Schedule During MCO / CMCO (PKP / PKPB) & the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO / PKPP)

To check the latest Penang to Butterworth ferry schedule:

Penang / Butterworth Ferry Telephone Numbers:

Penang Side: 04 261 0290 / 210 2363 (duty officer).

Butterworth Side: 04 331 2796 / 310 2377 (duty officer).

How much is the Penang Ferry ticket to Butterworth Terminal?

It is free from Penang to Butterworth.

You only have to pay one way for the ferry to Penang Island, and there is no charge for the return journey back to the Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal in Butterworth.

Penang Ferry Fares

The fares are cheap, and you only have to pay for the ferry from Butterworth to Penang.

The return journey is not charged.

Both Penang Bridge has the same system of charging in only one direction.

Pedestrian Ferry Fares

• Adult RM 1.20
• Child (Ages 5 to 12) RM 0.60
• Students in Uniform RM 0.60
• Individuals with disabilities (with valid OKU ID) RM 0.60

Vehicle Ferry Fares

• Bicycle RM 1.40
• Motorcycle RM 2.00
• Car RM 7.70

How do I get to Penang by Ferry?

Foot passengers now have to buy ferry tickets from the ticket counter.

You must scan your ticket on top of the turnstile to enter the waiting area.

Location Butterworth side:

The Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal in Butterworth is next to Butterworth KTM/ETS trains station and the bus station and is part of the Penang Sentral transport hub.

If you arrive by train, keep to your left after leaving the station’s main entrance and follow the signs to reach the Ferry Terminal via the Penang Sentral building.

It will only take a five-minute walk to get to the jetty.

The Rapid Penang bus terminal is now located under Penang Sentral.

Location Penang side:

Ferries depart from the Pangkalan Raja Tun Uda Ferry Terminal in George Town at Weld Quay, known as the Penang Jetty.

How To Reach The ETS Train Stations?

The traditional way to travel to Penang Island from Seberang Perai (Butterworth) is by ferry.

It was the only way for railway and then later express bus passengers from Singapore, Ipoh, or Kuala Lumpur to reach George Town.

Today, many Penangites still find it the most convenient way for rail travelers to reach Penang Island.

Taking the ferry across is free, and you only need to walk through Penang Sentral Building to reach the ETS Trains.

If you get a taxi to drive via Penang Bridge to take the early morning Train Station, the fare can go up to RM50. The cost by Grab is between RM25 – RM30.

Most vehicle traffic these days uses the two road bridges to Penang.

The Penang Ferry, which carries pedestrians, cars, and motorbikes, is a relaxing way to travel and an alternative for those not hurrying to explore George Town .

Note to travelers

While the idyllic old ferry is a journey worth taking, please be warned that taking a heavy suitcase is not a good option.

I took the ferry to the train station and dealt with a steep staircase when the Penang Sentral Building was under construction.

If you arrive by train with heavy luggage, you must take a taxi to reach the ferry as there is no smooth, easy connection from the train station to the Ferry Terminal.

Hannah, Jazzly taking baby Uzzayr for his ferry trip to Penang.

Summary of Memories of Penang Ferry Services:

Many Penangites feel a sense of loss and a sense of deep sadness.

Many others don’t know, won’t see, can’t understand.

What we have on reflection is a nostalgic view of the Penang Ferry.

When heritage is replaced by economic viability, we sometimes question the WHY.

Some of us ask the men in leadership.

I do know that many others suffer silently, and no one knows the WHY of things.

Most can tell you the How and What of things.

As seniors and veterans with the most respectful use of the terms, we see why we grow our children.

As our fathers have guided us and taught us well, we look at the younger ones.

We want to show them to be good passionate leaders.

As Penangites, we want to build our children with integrity above all else and always pray for leadership wisdom to remember the WHY of things.

Photo: Ivan Lim

Why was the Penang Ferry Services started?

The Ferry Service was a regular crossing for the Penang Strait for the people who lived on Penang Island to cross to Butterworth and vice versa.

Don’t end the ferry tale, says CM as new catamarans arrive.

Sultan Abdul Halim ferry terminal bridge collapse

Journey Planner With Rapid Ferry

History Behind Penang’s Popular Ferry Service Unveiled

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I wish to bring my younger son to take ferry before it close down, Take some photo at least he have a memory when he grow up.

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Penang Fast Ferry from Butterworth Penang Sentral Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) to Penang Island Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) by Ferry

Penang fast ferry from butterworth penang sentral pangkalan sultan abdul halim (psah) to penang island swettenham pier cruise terminal (spct).

The Penang Fast Ferry is the main transport link between Butterworth Penang Sentral and Georgetown on Penang Island, operating as an interim ferry service from 1 January 2021 to mid-2022 with leased services from Langkawi Ferry Services while the Penang Ferry service transitions into a water bus and vehicle transporter service.

Coming in from the KTM Komuter Northern Sector 2963dn from Padang Besar , I had about half an hour to board the 7pm Penang Fast Ferry to Penang Island Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT). Making this connection was essential as missing it would result in a 90 minute wait as the next and last ferry would be at 8.30pm – not a very fast Fast Ferry.

Temporary Walkway to Penang Sentral

After 2 years of not visiting Penang Sentral, I was looking forward to some improvements with the connection with  Butterworth Railway Station .

But alas, the temporary walkway to Penang Sentral is still in use. I wonder if this temporary walkway is permanent.

Crossing the road around the bus bays to Penang Sentral terminal building.

Penang Sentral

An elevator ride up to the back of the ticketing counter area, and I’m in Penang Sentral once again, just as a walkthrough to Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH).

The exit to Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) is after KFC.

Heading up a short flight of stairs to the Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) connection.

The walkway between Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) and Butterworth Railway Station has still not been reinstated yet, even though it looks very ready.

Butterworth Penang Sentral Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH)

Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) still looks the same as how I remembered it to be.

The Penang Fast Ferry is no longer operated by Rapid Penang, with Penang Port taking back operations.

Penang Fast Ferry tickets cost RM1.20 for foreigners.

For Malaysians, Penang Fast Ferry tickets have been free since 1 July 2021, and will be extended to end 2022 by producing a MyKad, MyKid, or MyTentera.

Here’s my foreigner paid ticket for the Penang Fast Ferry . The ticketing system remains the same under Penang Port.

Scan the QR code of the ticket at the ticket gates to enter the waiting area.

Seats are available while waiting for the Penang Fast Ferry .

The old boarding area mixed with vehicles is now hoarded up, affecting ventilation as the sea breeze cannot enter the waiting area any more. Standing fans are available to provide some breeze.

The boarding gate is now at the side leading to a set of stairs.

At 6.45pm, 15 minutes before departure, the gates opened for passengers to board the 7pm Penang Fast Ferry , after the arriving passengers had cleared out.

The stairs lead to the ground level where vehicles used to queue up.

Heading on to the boarding berth.

The car ramp has been modified to install a new floating pontoon to board the Penang Fast Ferry .

Langkawi Ferry Services Kenangan 6

Langkawi Ferry Services Kenangan 6 would be ferrying me (ha.) from Butterworth Penang Sentral Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) to Penang Island Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT).

This outsourcing is a temporary measure until the Penang Ferry service transitions into a water bus and vehicle transporter service.

Boarding the Kenangan 6 is easy with a gangway bridging the gap between the floating pontoon and the ferry.

The interior of the Kenangan 6 . Seats are laid out in a 5+5 configuration.

The view of the Kenangan 6 from my seat.

The legroom on board the Kenangan 6 .

The views out of Kenangan 6 are left to be desired with a purple tint sticker pasted on all windows.

A safety video is played on loop in a playlist.

The TV screen also advertises the Rapid Penang FERI Bus Service from Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) to Pengkalan Raja Tun Uda (Terminal Jetty).

The Penang Fast Ferry departed right on time at 7pm.

The Roro Jaya Satu which operates for bicycles and motorcycles is berthed beside, also departing at 7pm.

My first impression of the Penang Fast Ferry was, wow this is really fast.

Yes, it feels like a normal ferry in today’s terms, but way faster than the old Penang Ferry that I’ve took last time.

The skyline of Penang Island is just ahead.

Heading on to Penang Island at speed.

Crossing with the Kenangan 2 on the opposing direction, although this view means that the ferries are not following Rule 14 of the Rules of the Road . Hmm.

Approaching Penang Island Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) with a strange sight.

The Aegean Paradise is berthed at Penang Island Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT).

She used to be anchored off Singapore waters as a casino ship, and is now in Penang. Ironically, this is my first time seeing this once-Singapore-based ship up close.

The Taipan is also berthed at Penang Island Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT). The Taipan is an all-suite boutique cruise ship of Star Cruises.

Penang Island Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT)

Berthing at the floating pontoon of Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT).

The Penang Fast Ferry  ride from Butterworth Penang Sentral Pangkalan Sultan Abdul Halim (PSAH) to Penang Island Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) took only 10 minutes .

Disembarking from the Kenangan 6 .

A gangway bridges the gap between the ferry and floating pontoon.

Heading up the floating pontoon to Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) building.

A “Welcome to Penang” sign on the Penang Port Commission Building welcomes passengers to Penang Island.

Looking back at Kenangan 6 .

The path leads directly to a road out to Penang Island.

Looking back at the Penang Fast Ferry floating pontoon with the 2 cruise ships in the background.

The Roro Jaya Satu is still making her way to Penang Island Pengkalan Raja Tun Uda with bicycles and motorcycles.

Heading out of Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT).

The façade of Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) in the evening.

Here, I continued on to the bus stop to catch the connecting Rapid Penang FERI Bus Service from Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) to Terminal Jetty.

Overall, the Penang Fast Ferry offers a fast ride across from Butterworth to Penang Island, taking around half the time as needed on the old ferry. However, this fast ride is conflicted by the rather poor frequency.

At the time of my visit in December 2021, the Penang Fast Ferry frequency was mainly hourly to bi-hourly at most times of the day, which is very infrequent considering that the ferry is the only direct link between Georgetown and Penang Sentral.

If I had missed this 7pm ferry, I would have to wait till 8.30pm for the next ferry crossing.

Now, frequency has “improved” to be half-hourly at most times of the day, but this is still slower than the old Penang Port Penang Ferry which ran up to “4 feri” during peak hours, though the departure time is sketchy.

To work with the new, improved speed of harbour crossing, the Penang Fast Ferry should operate at least at 20-minute frequencies with 2 ferries, or 15-minute frequencies with 3 ferries. Otherwise, the new faster travel speed is cancelled out with plenty of resting time at the ports, making the “improvements” redundant or even backward.

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The Malaysian Insight

Is there a way to save penang’s iconic double-decker ferries.

Ian McIntyre Updated 3 weeks ago · Published on 25 Jul 2024 8:00AM · 0 Comments

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AS Penang marks 130 years of cross-channel ferry services, the decision to melt down four iconic double-decker ferries and to dismantle the bigger parts for the scrapyard did not sit well with some parties.

They said the Penang Port Commission (PPC) erred in how it managed the decommissioning of the ferries, which have been left moored inshore since 2020.

Yesterday, the “Pulau Kapas” ferry sank at the Butterworth Wharf after corrosion had set in since it was “parked” at the wharf from 2018.

“Pulau Kapas” was one of the four ferries that were decommissioned in 2020. The other ferries were “Pulau Undan”, “Pulau Paya”, and Pulau Talang Talang”. 

Following the incident, the PPC decided to dispose of these ferries immediately as further repair works could not be carried out due to serious structural rot.

A maritime industry specialist said that the ferries could have been placed on the dry docks immediately after they were decommissioned instead of moored inshore.

It would have reduced the erosion process and given more time for the authorities to find the right takers for the ferries, said the specialist, who declined to be identified.

“Anytime a vessel is put into the water, there must be maintenance done. I doubt if this was done in the case of these ferries. They were just put out to waste,” said the specialist.

The pump must be constantly working but in the “Pulau Kapas” ferry case, it was clear that the authorities had allowed seawater to seep in and before long, it tilted and sank.

The specialist said owners of any vessel need to be mindful of how to handle aging boats and ships, adding that the lengthy time to arrive at a decision also caused the vessel to suffer erosion until it was beyond repair and no longer seaworthy.

Former PPC chairman Jeffrey Chew Gim Eam, meanwhile, said the PPC did reach out to the private sector to refurnish and maintain the decommissioned ferries but there were no takers.

Even those who were initially keen could not bear the high costs, he added.

He said the PPC has valid reasons to dispose of the ferries although it is disappointing because of the iconic stature that those vessels enjoyed in Penang.

Chew said that out of the six remaining ferries, two were salvaged – one was bought by the developer Ideal Group, which has turned it into a floating restaurant off the Queens Waterfront mix-development site off Queensbay Mall.

Another was purchased by a Bumiputera company with plans to turn it into a floating museum.

Chew said the PPC gave ample opportunity for the private sector to take the lead but nobody really put forward a comprehensive proposal to salvage the remaining four ferries in 2018.

Iconic ferries

Tropical Charters Sdn Bhd owner Issac Alexander said that he advanced a proposal to the PPC to lease the ferries but he wanted them placed in Langkawi as a tourist attraction.

“It was rejected because the ferries are iconic and exclusive to Penang,” he said.

Former PKR deputy secretary-general S. Raveentharan said that it was unfortunate that the ferries had to meet this fate.

He said more effort could have gone into salvaging them if there was conviction that they were national or state treasures.

“They could have relocated the ferries to the dry docks and turned them into museums or inland attractions.

“Or at least offer incentives to the private sector to invest in them with the return of investments coming from tourism,” said Raveentharan.

It could be placed at a figurehead for the proposed upgrading of the state museum just like the aged funicular trains were for Penang Hill, he proposed.

The cross-channel double-decker ferries had operated since 1925 but the service began in 1894 to meet the demand for cross-channel exchanges.

In 1894, it was mostly confined to a pedestrian cross-channel crossing but by 1925, it was refitted to become one which moved vehicles and cargo.

But some 100 years later in 2018, the service was scrapped as the operator, Penang Port Sdn Bhd, suffered annual losses of close to a million ringgit after the ferries became an afterthought with the opening of the two bridges.

Last year, catamaran-designed ferries entered service to replace the old double-decker fleet, but they only transport pedestrians. – July 25, 2024.

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Langkawi Coral - Penang Base

Penang, Peninsular Malaysia

We promote Green Tourism , environmentally responsible travel to natural areas to appreciate nature and promote conservation, and sustain the well being of local people. We are a member to the Pacific Asia Travel Association, PATA and Professional Association of Diving Instructors, PADI.

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Fun dives in pulau payar.

07:15 – 07:55: Hotel pick-up from scheduled pick-up points. fixed schedule

07:30 – 08:00: Check-in at Swettenham Pier, Penang.

08:15: Depart for Pulau Payar Marine Park by ferry.

10:15: Marine Park Exploration @ Malaysia’s 1st & Only Reef Platform & beach. • Snorkeling. mask & snorkeling vest are provided • Coral Viewing. • Fish Watching. • Sun Bathing. • Beach Walk. • Fun Dives for divers. Open Water Dive 1 – 11:30. Open Water Dive 2 – 13:30.

12:30 – 14:00: Buffet lunch on table sharing basis. fixed menu

15:30: Depart for Penang by ferry.

17:30: Arrive at Swettenham Pier, Penang & return pick-up (tour end)

Price doesn't include marine park fee and port passenger charge (Aprox 15 RM)

4 Days PADI Open Water Certification Course

Day 1 0930: Tutorial: Module 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5.

1530: Overall reviews and Q & A. Day 2

TBA: Practical: Confined water training. • Skills reviews, Q & A and final examination. Day 3 & Day 4

0715 – 0755: Hotel pick-up from scheduled pick-up points.

0730 – 0800: Check-in at Swettenham Pier, Penang.

0815: Depart for Pulau Payar Marine Park by ferry.

1015: Marine Park Exploration @ Malaysia’s 1st & Only Reef Platform & beach. • Snorkeling/Coral Viewing/Fish Watching.

1130: Open Water Dive 1/3.

1230 – 1400: Buffet lunch on table sharing basis.

1330: Open Water Dive 2/4.

1530: Depart for Penang by ferry.

1730: Arrive at Swettenham Pier, Penang & return pick-up to hotel.(tour end)

*** Read & understand Terms & Conditons of tour services, http://www.langkawicoral.com/terms.php.***

3 Days SSI Open Water Certification Course

Learn to dive in just 3 days in the beautiful Pulau Payar, with the commodity of being in Langkawi. All transfers and materials included.

Day 1 0945 - Depart Kuah jetty for Pulau Payar Marine Park on air-conditioned catamaran / ferry. 1000 - Tutorial : Module 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5. 1045 - Marine Park Exploration @ Malaysia’s 1st * Snorkelling / Marine Life Observation / Sun Bathing. 1130 - Practical : Confined Water Training. 1230-1330 - Buffet lunch on table sharing basis and Q & A . 1335 - Confined Water Training, Skills Reviews and Q & A. 1530 - Depart reef platform for Kuah jetty, Langkawi. 1630 - Arrive at Kuah jetty, Langkawi and transfer back to hotel.

Day 2 Itinerary Pick-up from hotel and transfer to Kuah jetty, Langkawi. 0945 - Depart Kuah jetty for Pulau Payar Marine Park on air-conditioned catamaran / ferry. 1045 - Marine Park Exploration @ Malaysia’s 1st * Snorkelling / Marine Life Observation / Sun Bathing. 1130 - Open Water Dive 1. 1230-1330 - Buffet lunch on table sharing basis and Q & A . 1335 - Open Water Dive 2. * Q & A. 1530 - Depart reef platform for Kuah jetty, Langkawi. 1630 - Arrive at Kuah jetty, Langkawi and transfer back to hotel.

Day 3 Itinerary Pick-up from hotel and transfer to Kuah jetty, Langkawi. 0945 - Depart Kuah jetty for Pulau Payar Marine Park on air-conditioned catamaran / ferry. 1045 - Marine Park Exploration @ Malaysia’s 1st * Snorkelling / Marine Life Observation / Sun Bathing. 1130 - Open Water Dive 3. 1230-1330 - Buffet lunch on table sharing basis and Q & A . 1335 - Open Water Dive 4. * Final Examination. 1530 - Depart reef platform for Kuah jetty, Langkawi. 1630 - Arrive at Kuah jetty, Langkawi and transfer back to hotel.

Snorkelling + Diving for non certified divers

If you haven't dived before, or you don't have a certification it is not a problem. You can do a DSD (Discover Scuba Diving) with us in Pulau Payar, and finish the day with a great snorkel experience.

0705 – 0750 Hotel pick-up from scheduled pick-up points. 0730 – 0800 Check-in at Pier 0815 Depart for Pulau Payar Marine Park by ferry. 1015 Marine Park Exploration @ Malaysia’s 1st & Only Reef Platform & beach. • Snorkeling. • Coral Viewing. • Fish Watching. • Sun Bathing. • Beach Walk. • 1 Beginner Dive. 1230 – 1400 Buffet lunch on table sharing basis. 1530 Depart by ferry. 1730 Arrive at Penang & return pick-up to hotel.

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Pulau Payar Marine Park by Langkawi Coral - Penang Base

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Local News | Chesapeake Bay ferry system would boost…

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Local news | dnc live coverage: alsobrooks, obamas make their cases for harris, local news | chesapeake bay ferry system would boost economic growth but operate at a loss in first year.

The report , unveiled Thursday at the Maryland Association of Counties conference in Ocean City, includes potential routes, ridership estimates, vessel requirements and financial analysis.

The study, conducted by Cambridge Systematics, a transportation consulting firm, looks at how a passenger ferry system could affect economic growth and tourism, increase access to the bay and provide new water connectivity across the region. A five-county consortium was part of the study, including Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County and governments from Calvert, St. Mary’s, Somerset and Queen Anne’s counties.

“We are optimistic about the study results and the path forward, which could better connect our Chesapeake Bay destinations and create economic impact across the entire state,” Kristin Pironis, executive director of Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, said in a news release.

A map of the proposed ferry system’s locations and routes along the bay was released in February , identifying 21 potential host communities. Potential routes have changed slightly since then, however, and only 14 of the host sites are included. None of the six newly released routes have been finalized.

The longest proposed route could begin in Baltimore and head south to Annapolis before crossing the bay to make stops in Matapeake, St. Michaels, Kent Narrows and Rock Hall before returning in the afternoon. Another would start in Annapolis and head north to Baltimore, then cross the bay to Rock Hall, Kent Narrows and St. Michaels. A third could begin in Annapolis and head south, stopping in Chesapeake Beach and Solomons Island in Calvert County before heading to Crisfield on the lower Eastern Shore.

Expansion to seven additional communities would come later.

The ferries would operate Thursday through Monday from mid-April to mid-October.

The system is assumed to include seven vessels: two 149-passenger ferries and five 49-passenger ferries that could venture into shallower waters. Because the ferries would cruise at roughly 25 knots, or 28 mph, a catamaran design would offer more stability, the study says. Each ferry would have indoor and outdoor seating and restrooms.

These types of vessels range from $750,000 for a used, refurbished one to $11 million for a new one, according to the study.

Each of the proposed ferry terminals would require pier infrastructure, a covered building, restrooms and access to transit.

Once built, the system could handle 50,000 riders per season, the study says, with adult fares being $10 per hour on the water.

The report puts the price of other ferries and boat tours across the country at around $20 per hour on the water. A recent ridership survey found respondents would be more inclined to ride the Chesapeake Bay ferry with lower fares.

While the proposed ferry system is estimated to generate $2.5 million in revenue, it’s also likely to cost $5 million to operate during its first year, the study says, meaning it will have a negative pre-tax income of $2.5 million. That shortfall does not include roughly $4.8 million in improvements needed at the 14 proposed sites.

Without support from the host communities, the system would operate at a loss, the study says.

Financial performance of the ferry system would improve with higher ridership costlier tickets, the study says. Grant funding could reduce vessel capital costs, and public or private contributions could reduce terminal improvement costs.

However, if ridership during the ferry system’s first year reaches estimated levels, 143 jobs would be generated along with $6.7 million in labor income and $2.6 million in tax revenue.

A public/private partnership is suggested as the best governance structure to move forward with the project, the study says.

Next steps will include talking to community leaders, confirming site readiness, developing a funding plan and establishing a schedule.

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