Kayaking is always one of my favourite ways to explore a new place. Unlike the kayak experience in Tangalooma QLD, the Pulau Ubin Mangrove 4-hour adventure felt really authentic. There are a couple of different tours and companies but we ended up going with Adventures because the time and price suited us.
Getting there
Start the day with a ferry ride to the island. We found it easy to get to, as it leaves from Changi Beach. The Pulau Ubin island is the one of the last places to see a traditional kampong, or village. Our ferry driver spoke very little English but made it abundantly clear that our lack of exact change and inability to jump off straight away was not ok. So bring small change for the ferry! It’s not expensive but it will only leave when you have 12 people and is an experience all by itself. I would also recommend bringing cash for food and drink while exploring the island. I didn’t find many modern conveniences like ATM/s or Paypass.
To the Pulau Ubin Mangrove
Our kayak tour operator was super professional and it was a lovely small group of six people. We had a comprehensive briefing and a float test, before taking off in the open waters towards the Pulau Ubin Mangroves. Be prepared to lug the kayaks yourself through the village though! They kayaks are double seaters and heavy, so this was the most physically intense part of the day.
Originally I was worried about doing the 8 hour trek, because I was super tired and not feeling fit, but the 4 hour experience was chill and relaxed. I would not be afraid to go on the 8 hour tour next time. I don’t think you need to be an experienced kayaker to enjoy yourself either.
Ah Ma Drink Stall
After exploring the Pulau Ubin mangrove, and the wildlife, we stopped at the halfway point. The Ah Ma Drink Stall is part of the heritage trail and a good chance to hop out, stretch legs and buy a drink with your cash.
Stormy Weather
On the way home we literally hit stormy weather. Our guide had a lightening warning device, and walky talky and was highly professional. We spent a very wet 20mins huddling under the trees while our guide pointed out the family of Asian small-clawed otters nearby and other points of interest. I was cold and wet and still wouldn’t change this part of the adventure.
In fact the only part of the experience I would change is sunscreen. I was very painfully burnt by the time the trip was over. But I otherwise thoroughly enjoyed my Pulau Mangrove Kayak experience and would recommend it as a way to explore the island.
