How to get from Kuala Besut to Perhentian Islands

Getting from Kuala Besut Jetty to the Perhentian Islands is straightforward once you understand the boat options, schedules, and fees at the jetty, plus a few local tips about luggage, tides, and the monsoon season.

At A Glance (Kuala Besut to Perhentian Islands)

Mode	Duration	Best For
🚤 Shared Speedboat (Kuala Besut Jetty → Perhentian Besar / Kecil)	~30–45 minutes on water (+15–30 minutes for ticketing/boarding)	Most travelers, simple and frequent
🏷️ Cost: ~RM35–45 one-way / RM70–90 return (per adult) » compare boats | alt. listings
🛥️ Private Boat Charter (Kuala Besut → Direct to Your Beach)	~25–35 minutes (direct, usually no intermediate stops)	Groups, late/early arrivals, lots of luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~RM350–900 per boat (up to ~10–24 passengers) » sample charter rates
🚐 Door-to-Door Transfer (Airport/City → Kuala Besut + Boat)	~1–2 hours road from Kota Bharu / Kuala Terengganu + ~30–45 minutes boat	First-timers, families, stress-free connections
🏷️ Cost: From ~RM60–120 per car (airport → jetty) + boat tickets ~RM70–90 return pp. Check packages via Trip.com guides or local operators.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest & Most Convenient: For almost everyone already in Kuala Besut or nearby (Kota Bharu / Kuala Terengganu), Option #1 – Shared Speedboat is the best balance of time, frequency, and price.
• Most Comfortable for Groups & Odd Hours: If you arrive late, early, or with a big group and want to go straight to your specific resort jetty, Option #2 – Private Boat Charter gives you flexibility and a direct route.
• Most Hassle-Free (From Airport or Bus): Flying into Kota Bharu (KBR) or Kuala Terengganu (TGG) and don’t want to juggle taxis and boat tickets? Option #3 – Door-to-Door Transfer bundles road transfer and boat in one booking.
• Budget-Conscious Backpackers: Take a bus to Kuala Besut, then buy a walk-in shared speedboat ticket (Option #1). Travel time is similar to pre-booking, but you have more flexibility if plans change.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book boats in advance in peak months: From June–September and on Malaysian school holidays, pre-booking a speedboat ticket online (e.g. via 12Go Asia, Klook, or Trip.com activities) avoids sold-out morning departures.
• Check monsoon closures: Many resorts and boats shut from roughly November to February. Always confirm if boats are running with your accommodation or operator before you travel.
• Have cash and card ready: At Kuala Besut Jetty you’ll usually pay a municipal jetty fee and a separate Marine Park conservation fee. These may be card-only, so have both card and some Malaysian ringgit on hand just in case.
• Tell the boatman your exact beach: Boats may stop at several jetties; clearly say your resort or beach (e.g. Long Beach, Coral Bay, PIR Jetty) before boarding.
• Protect electronics: Boarding is often from a small jetty or straight from the beach. Pack phones, cameras, and passports in a dry bag and wear sandals you don’t mind getting wet.
• Plan flights and hotels together: If you’re still arranging your trip, search flights into Kota Bharu (KBR) or Kuala Terengganu (TGG) with Booking.com Flights, then line up island stays using Perhentian Islands hotels on Booking.com.
• Ride-hailing & transfers: From Kota Bharu or Kuala Terengganu to Kuala Besut Jetty you can use standard taxis, the Grab ride-hailing app, pre-booked drivers via GetTransfer, or airport transfers from larger hubs like Kuala Lumpur with Welcome Pickups.
• Luggage and storage: You’ll take bags on the boat with you. If you’re leaving extra luggage on the mainland (e.g. during a longer Malaysia trip), consider using secure hotel storage or city luggage services such as Radical Storage in Kuala Lumpur before heading east.
• Exploring by scooter on the mainland: If you plan an east-coast road trip before or after the islands, compare scooter and motorbike rentals around Malaysia on BikesBooking.

🚤 Option #1 — Shared Speedboat from Kuala Besut Jetty (Most Popular, Good Value)

Low cost Frequent departures Weather & season dependent

• Overview: Shared speedboats run between Kuala Besut Jetty and both Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, taking about 30–45 minutes. Boats usually operate from around 8:00 to 17:00 during the main season (March–October), with several departures daily.
• Tickets & typical prices: Expect roughly RM35–45 one-way or RM70–90 return per adult. Children are usually discounted. On top of the boat ticket, factor in a jetty/municipal fee and a Marine Park conservation fee (commonly ~RM30 per foreign adult; lower for Malaysians and children), paid at the counters before boarding.
• How to book:
  • Walk-in at the jetty: Multiple operators have desks at Kuala Besut Jetty. You can arrive in the morning, choose the next available departure, and pay on the spot.
  • Book online:
    • Compare departure times and operators on 12Go Asia (Kuala Besut ⇄ Perhentian).
    • Reserve shared boat transfers via Klook or Perhentian boat tickets bundled with snorkelling via GetYourGuide Malaysia beach trips.
    • Some packages on Trip.com include return speedboat plus activities.
  • Through your resort/guesthouse: Many Perhentian accommodations can pre-arrange boat tickets; they’ll send you schedule details and where to meet at the jetty.
• Pros: Cheapest and simplest option, plenty of departures, easy to book on arrival, and flexible for solo travelers or couples.
• Cons: Fixed departure windows (no late-night boats), can be crowded in high season, and occasionally cancelled or delayed in rough seas. Boarding is often from a beach or basic jetty, so expect to get your feet wet.

Step-by-step: Shared Speedboat from Kuala Besut Jetty

1. Plan your arrival in Kuala Besut: Aim to reach the jetty at least 30–60 minutes before your preferred boat departure, especially in peak months. If you’re coming from Kota Bharu or Kuala Terengganu, factor in 1–1.5 hours’ road time.
2. Head to the ticket counters: Inside or near the jetty building you’ll find counters for different boat operators. If you haven’t pre-booked, compare departure times and prices and choose the next suitable boat.
3. Pay jetty and Marine Park fees: Before boarding, you’ll be directed to pay the municipal jetty fee and the Marine Park conservation fee at the official counters and receive printed receipts or tickets. Keep these with you for inspection.
4. Confirm your island and drop-off beach: Tell the staff and boat crew whether you’re going to Perhentian Kecil (e.g. Long Beach, Coral Bay, Fishermen Village) or Perhentian Besar (e.g. PIR Jetty, Flora Bay, Teluk Dalam). They’ll allocate you to the correct boat or note your stop.
5. Board the speedboat: Wear your life jacket, stow larger bags where instructed, and keep valuables in a waterproof bag. The crossing can be bumpy when waves pick up.
6. Disembark at your beach: Many landings are on the beach itself; step carefully and expect knee-deep water at higher tide. Resorts often send someone to help if they know your arrival time.

Getting to the main embarking points (Kuala Besut Jetty)

• From Kota Bharu (KBR) airport: Taxis and Grab rides take about 1 hour to Kuala Besut Jetty. For more comfort or travelling as a group, you can pre-book a driver from Sultan Ismail Petra Airport using GetTransfer.
• From Kota Bharu city: Local taxis or Grab rides are straightforward; allow around 60–75 minutes in case of traffic. Some guesthouses in Kota Bharu can bundle the transfer and boat ticket.
• From Kuala Terengganu: Expect ~1.5–2 hours by taxi, Grab, or pre-arranged minivan. Check if your resort offers land transfers from Kuala Terengganu plus boat.
• By long-distance bus: Buses from Kuala Lumpur (TBS) and other Malaysian cities often stop at Kuala Besut or nearby Jerteh. From the bus stop, it’s a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride (or a 10–15 minute walk, depending on drop-off point) to the jetty.
• Driving & parking: If you’re self-driving, there are private car parks near the jetty charging a daily fee. Take a photo of where you’ve parked and keep the parking ticket safe.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🛥️ Option #2 — Private Boat Charter (Flexible & Direct)

Great for groups Custom timing Higher total cost

• Overview: Private speedboats operate on-demand between Kuala Besut and the Perhentian Islands. They’re ideal for families, groups of friends, or anyone with a tight schedule who wants to leave immediately on arrival and go straight to a specific jetty or secluded beach.
• Typical prices: As a guideline, expect around RM350–450 for a smaller private boat (up to ~10–12 passengers) and up to RM900 for larger boats carrying around 20–24 passengers, one-way. Splitting the fare among several people often makes this quite good value.
• How to book:
  • Via local operators: Companies such as Perhentian Trans and others based in Kuala Besut list private boat packages and island day trips; you can check example pricing on pages like PerhentianTrans price lists.
  • Through your resort: Many mid-range and upscale resorts (and some dive centres) can arrange private boats timed to your flight or bus arrival.
  • Online booking platforms: Some private charters or “island transfer” packages are bookable via Trip.com, Klook searches or other local agencies.
• Pros: Leaves when you’re ready, direct drop-off to your chosen beach, more space for luggage or dive gear, and easier with kids or elderly travelers.
• Cons: Significantly more expensive if you’re only 1–2 people, and still subject to weather/sea conditions and daylight hours.

Step-by-step: Private Boat Charter

1. Request a quote: A few days before arrival, contact your resort or a Kuala Besut-based operator with your group size, luggage amount, and preferred departure time. Ask if the price includes jetty fees or if those are separate.
2. Confirm meeting point: Most private charters depart from the main Kuala Besut Jetty area, but the operator may specify a particular jetty or office (for example, a designated counter or travel agency near the waterfront).
3. Pay deposits or full fare: Some operators require a deposit via bank transfer or card; others accept cash on the day. Clarify cancellation policies in case weather forces changes.
4. Set your exact drop-off: Provide the resort name, island (Besar or Kecil), and preferred landing beach so the captain can plan a safe route and timing with tides.
5. Arrive early on the day: Show up 20–30 minutes before the agreed departure to settle any remaining balance, pay jetty/Marine Park fees at the counters, and load luggage.
6. Enjoy a smoother, direct ride: With no intermediate stops, you’ll usually arrive a bit faster and with more space to stretch out than on shared boats.

Getting to the main embarking points (Kuala Besut Jetty for Private Charters)

• From airports (KBR/TGG/KUL via domestic flight): After booking your domestic flight (for example via Kuala Lumpur → Kota Bharu on Booking.com Flights), ask your resort or private boat operator if they can also arrange an airport pick-up or recommend a trusted driver.
• Using Grab or taxis: At Kota Bharu or Kuala Terengganu, you can often hail Grab or a standard taxi directly from the airport or city to Kuala Besut Jetty. Check estimated fares in the app ahead of time.
• Private driver services: If you prefer a named driver and fixed price, consider booking a car in advance from Kota Bharu using GetTransfer or a local transfer service recommended by your accommodation.
• Self-drive and park: If you’ve rented a car elsewhere in Malaysia, plan for 6–7 hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut and park in one of the guarded lots near the jetty.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #3 — Door-to-Door Transfer (Airport/City → Kuala Besut + Boat)

Hassle-free Great with kids Slightly higher total cost

• Overview: This option bundles a land transfer (usually from Kota Bharu or Kuala Terengganu airports or city hotels) with the boat from Kuala Besut to the Perhentians. You typically meet a driver at arrivals or your hotel, drive to the jetty, pay fees, and board a pre-arranged shared speedboat.
• Typical duration & cost:
  • Road: ~1 hour from Kota Bharu, ~1.5–2 hours from Kuala Terengganu.
  • Boat: ~30–45 minutes crossing.
  • Prices: From around RM60–120 per car for a standard airport→jetty transfer, plus RM70–90 return per person for the shared boat (varies with provider and season).
• How to book:
  • Package with your resort: Many resorts, especially on Perhentian Besar, offer land+boat packages when you book rooms—check their “How to get here” section or email them.
  • Online platforms: Some travel agencies and portals like Trip.com’s Perhentian transport guide or regional operators listed on Klook provide combined transfers.
  • Airport transfer specialists: If you’re overnighting in Kuala Lumpur before heading east, you can use Welcome Pickups in Kuala Lumpur for city transfers, then switch to a domestic flight plus separate jetty+boat arrangements.
• Pros: Minimal logistics to handle yourself, especially helpful if you’re landing with tired kids, lots of bags, or in the evening when you want to be sure someone is waiting for you.
• Cons: Less flexibility if you want to detour en route, and changing times or dates may incur rescheduling fees.

Step-by-step: Door-to-Door Transfer to the Perhentians

1. Arrange the transfer when you book accommodation: When you reserve your Perhentian hotel (for example via Perhentian listings on Booking.com), ask if they can include airport/bus terminal pick-up plus boat.
2. Share your travel details: Provide flight or bus arrival time, the number of travelers, and luggage details so the operator can allocate the right vehicle and boat departure.
3. Meet your driver: On the day, look for your name sign at the airport/bus station meeting point, or follow the pick-up instructions sent by email/WhatsApp.
4. Drive to Kuala Besut Jetty: Relax for the 1–2 hour road journey. Your driver may help you buy snacks or stop at an ATM if needed.
5. Pay fees and get boat tickets: At the jetty, your driver or guide will usually show you where to pay jetty and Marine Park fees and where to collect your boat vouchers.
6. Board the scheduled boat: Join the pre-booked shared speedboat departure and proceed to your beach/resort on the islands.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airports & Bus Terminals)

• From Kuala Lumpur: Fly to Kota Bharu (KBR) or Kuala Terengganu (TGG); domestic flights are frequent and around 1 hour. You can compare options using Booking.com Flights to Kota Bharu.
• From other Malaysian cities: Long-distance buses to Kota Bharu or Kuala Terengganu are widely available; from there, your pre-arranged transfer will collect you at the bus terminal.
• Local ride-hailing: If you only pre-book the boat and want to handle the road leg yourself, the Grab app is widely used in Malaysia and works well for rides between airports/cities and Kuala Besut.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Kuala Besut to Perhentian Islands)

Do boats from Kuala Besut to the Perhentian Islands run all year?
Boat services are highly seasonal. Most operators run regularly from roughly March to October when seas are calmer and resorts are open. During the northeast monsoon (typically November to February), many accommodations close and boat schedules are reduced or suspended—always confirm with your resort or boat company before travelling.

How long does the boat ride take from Kuala Besut to the Perhentian Islands?
Shared speedboats normally take around 30–45 minutes, depending on sea conditions and how many stops they make on Perhentian Besar and Kecil. Private charters can be a little faster because they sail directly to your chosen beach.

How much should I budget for the full trip from Kuala Besut to the Perhentians?
For a typical shared speedboat, expect around RM70–90 per adult for a return ticket, plus a Marine Park conservation fee and local jetty/municipal fees (together often around RM35–50 per foreign adult). If you’re including road transfers from Kota Bharu or Kuala Terengganu, add roughly RM60–120 per car each way, depending on provider and vehicle size.

Do I need to book the boat in advance?
In shoulder and low season, you can usually just show up at Kuala Besut Jetty and catch the next boat. In peak times (July–August, weekends, and public holidays), it’s smart to pre-book at least your outbound trip through your accommodation or a platform like 12Go Asia, Klook, GetYourGuide, or Trip.com. Doing so secures a specific departure time and avoids waiting several hours for space on the next boat.

What about luggage limits on the boats?
Boats are used to handling backpacks and standard suitcases, but there may be informal limits on very heavy or bulky items, and some operators charge extra for oversized gear (like dive tanks or large coolers). Travel with closed bags that can withstand sea spray, and consider leaving unnecessary items in mainland storage or hotel luggage rooms.

Is the crossing safe for children and non-swimmers?
Yes, boats are widely used by families and local travellers. Life jackets are provided and usually mandatory. However, the ride can be bumpy in choppy seas, so seat children towards the middle or back of the boat, and avoid travel on days when wind and waves are especially strong if you’re nervous about motion.

Where do I stay on the Perhentian Islands, and how does that affect my boat choice?
Perhentian Kecil is popular with backpackers and budget travelers (Long Beach and Coral Bay), while Perhentian Besar tends to have quieter, family-oriented resorts. When buying your ticket, always mention your exact resort or beach so you’re assigned to a boat that stops nearby. Some resorts also have their own designated boats or landing jetties.