Merang Jetty Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Merang Jetty is easily accessible by road, located approximately 30 kilometers north of Kuala Terengganu city. From Kuala Terengganu, the drive takes around 30-40 minutes along well-maintained coastal roads. Public buses connect from Kuala Terengganu's main terminal to Merang village, with taxi services offering a more direct route to the jetty itself. If traveling from further afield, Kuala Terengganu's Sultan Mahmud Airport receives domestic flights from Kuala Lumpur (about 55 minutes), with shuttle services and taxis available for the onward journey to Merang. Ample parking is available at the jetty for those arriving by private vehicle, though spaces fill quickly during peak season.

Nestled on the northeastern coast of Malaysia, Merang Jetty serves as the primary launching point for adventures to the stunning islands of Terengganu. This bustling maritime hub offers travelers their first taste of the region's laid-back coastal charm before embarking on crystal-clear waters. From Merang, a world of pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and authentic Malaysian island culture awaits just a short ferry ride away.

The ideal time to visit Merang Jetty is during the dry season from April to October when seas are calmer and visibility for island activities is optimal. March to September offers the most reliable ferry schedules with fewer weather-related cancellations. The monsoon season (November to February) brings heavy rainfall and rougher seas, with some ferry services reduced or temporarily suspended. May and June present a sweet spot with pleasant weather and fewer tourists compared to the July-August peak. Consider timing your visit with the Terengganu International Eco & Marine Tourism Exhibition if you're interested in local maritime culture and conservation efforts.

Merang Jetty provides access to some of Malaysia's most breathtaking island escapes. Redang Island, just 45 minutes away by ferry, boasts world-class diving, powder-white beaches, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Lang Tengah Island, a 30-minute journey, offers a more secluded experience with untouched coral gardens and peaceful shores away from larger crowds. The protected Bidong Island, once a Vietnamese refugee settlement, combines historical significance with natural beauty and takes about 40 minutes to reach. For the adventurous, the Perhentian Islands can be accessed via a combination of land transport and ferry connections, creating an unforgettable island-hopping itinerary from this convenient maritime hub.

While many travelers pass through Merang Jetty quickly en route to the islands, the surrounding area offers its own charms worth exploring. The nearby Merang River supports fascinating firefly watching tours in the evening, offering a magical natural light show. Fresh seafood is abundant at the local restaurants near the jetty, where the catch of the day is prepared in traditional Terengganu style with aromatic spices and coconut-based sauces. The Merang beach itself provides a quiet alternative to the more famous island beaches, with opportunities to witness traditional fishing boats coming and going. Exploring the village markets reveals local handicrafts including batik textiles and hand-woven mengkuang mats that showcase the region's artistic heritage.

Merang Jetty was once a simple fishing dock before transforming into one of Malaysia's busiest island ferry terminals, now handling thousands of visitors annually. The waters surrounding Merang are part of a sea turtle conservation zone, with several protected nesting beaches on nearby islands. Local fishermen still practice traditional methods that have remained largely unchanged for generations, using distinctive wooden boats called 'perahu'. The jetty's name comes from the abundant 'merang' (rice straw) that was historically harvested in the surrounding paddy fields and used for craft-making and thatching.