Everything you need to know about reaching the jetty, paying marine fees, and catching your boat to the islands.
Whether you arrive by flight or bus, Kuala Besut is the only official departure point for the Perhentian Islands with boats connecting you to various resorts and villas in the Perhentian Islands.
From Kota Bharu Airport (KBR): 1 hour by taxi (RM90 – RM110).
From Kuala Terengganu Airport (TGG): 1.5 to 2 hours by taxi (RM180 – RM220).
By Bus: The Kuala Besut Bus Terminal is a short 5-minute walk (or RM5 trishaw ride) from the jetty.
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To make your transition smooth, follow these steps upon arrival at the jetty:
Register at your Boat Office: Most resorts use specific boat operators. Find the office listed on your booking confirmation to get your boat tags.
Pay Marine Park & Jetty Fees: You must visit the official counter to pay the conservation fees (Mandatory for all visitors).
Boarding: Head to the pier 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.
The journey to the islands takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes depending on the waves and which beach you are heading to.
| Service Direction | Departure Times | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jetty → Island (Departure) |
08:00 AM 10:00 AM 12:00 PM* 04:00 PM |
*On Fridays, the 12:00 PM boat is rescheduled to 2:30 PM for Friday Prayers. |
| Island → Jetty (Return) |
08:00 AM 12:00 PM 04:00 PM |
Please inform your resort reception of your return time at least 24 hours in advance. |
| Private Charter | On Demand | Available between 07:00 AM and 06:00 PM (Subject to weather). |
Note: On Fridays, the 12:00 PM boat may be delayed until 2:30 PM due to Friday Prayers.
| BuBu Resort Route | Departure Times | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Besut Jetty → BuBu Resort | 11:30 AM 02:00 PM* 04:00 PM |
Check-in at BuBu Office 20 mins prior. *Friday: 2:00 PM boat moves to 2:30 PM. |
| BuBu Resort → Besut Jetty | 10:00 AM 12:30 PM 04:00 PM |
Arrives at jetty approx. 30 mins later. |
Before you can step onto the boat, there are two separate fees you must pay at the jetty terminal. These are not included in your boat ticket or hotel booking.
This fee is collected by the Department of Fisheries to maintain the coral reefs and marine life of the Perhentian Islands.
Malaysians: RM5.00 (Adult) / RM2.00 (Child)
Non-Malaysians: RM30.00 (Adult) / RM15.00 (Child)
Validity: 3 Days (If you stay longer, you technically only pay once upon entry).
Location: The official “Jabatan Laut” counter located inside the Kuala Besut Jetty terminal.
A separate “Terminal Fee” or “Maintenance Fee” is charged by the local council for the upkeep of the jetty facilities.
Rate: RM5.00 per person (Standard for both locals and foreigners).
To avoid the crowds and stress, follow this specific order once you arrive at Kuala Besut. Note that premium resorts like BuBu Resort have their own exclusive procedures.
For Standard Visitors: Head to the booth of your assigned boat operator (e.g., Perhentian Trans) to confirm your booking and tag your luggage.
For BuBu Resort & BuBu Villa Guests: Do not go to the public boat counters. Head directly to the BuBu Meet & Greet Office (located at D1 Tourist Terminal).
BuBu Exclusive: Guests enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned lounge to rest and keep luggage before being whisked away on BuBu’s private speedboat, which goes directly to Long Beach without multiple stops.
Before entering the terminal, every traveler must visit the official windows to pay:
Marine Park Conservation Fee: (Keep your receipt for snorkeling!)
Besut Jetty Terminal Fee: RM5.00 per person.
Public Boats: Listen for your resort name to be called. Public boats often make 3–5 stops at different beaches.
BuBu Resort Guests: A dedicated host will escort you from the Meet & Greet Office directly to your private boat for a seamless 30-minute crossing.
For guests seeking a seamless, door-to-door experience, BuBu Resort offers private limousine transfers that take you directly from the airport to the jetty.
Skip the taxi queues and crowded shuttle vans. A private driver will meet you at the arrival hall with a name sign and escort you to a luxury Toyota Vellfire. This is ideal for families, small groups (up to 5 pax), or anyone wanting a comfortable, air-conditioned start to their holiday.
Pro-Tip: The luxury transfer drops you off exactly at the BuBu Meet & Greet Office (D1 Tourist Terminal). You won’t have to drag your luggage across the public jetty area; the resort staff will handle everything from the moment you step out of the car.
For a complete overview of the journey, including what to expect when you arrive, refer to the Perhentian Islands Travel Guide: How to Get There and What to Expect.