Craving a break from city life? Just across the Johor Strait lies Desaru, a coastal town in Malaysia where golden beaches meet mangrove forests and orchards.  Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover or family looking for a fun day out, this quick guide will show you how to get there by ferry and make the most of Desaru’s celebrated Fruit Farm.

Why Choose Desaru for a Weekend Break?

Accessible by a scenic 90-minute ferry from Singapore, the coastal haven of Desaru graces the southeastern shore of Johor.  Its 17‑kilometre shoreline is dotted with casuarina trees, making it one of Johor’s most picturesque beaches.  Inland, you’ll find mangroves, rivers and rolling farmland, perfect for eco‑tourism and wildlife encounters.  The compact size of the area means you can relax on the sand, wander through orchards and tour a crocodile farm all in one day.

How to Get to Desaru by Ferry

The simplest way to reach Desaru is via the Batamfast ferry service.  Boats depart from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore and arrive at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal (DCFT) in Johor.  The crossing takes about 90 minutes. As of 2025, there’s one departure in each direction: 10:10 AM from Singapore and 5:30 PM from Desaru, running from Thursday to Monday.  Tickets cost about SGD 108 return and SGD 70 one‑way, inclusive of surcharges and terminal fees.  Because there is only one sailing per day, book seats in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during school holidays and weekends.

Tip: Carry a passport valid for at least six months and allow extra time for immigration at both terminals.  During the north‑east monsoon (roughly November–February), rough seas may force vessels to divert to nearby Tanjung Pengelih with coach transfers to Desaru.

Delving into Desaru’s Fruit Farm

A major draw in Desaru is its Fruit Farm. Spanning over 100 acres, this agro-tourism site cultivates dozens of tropical fruit varieties and herbs.  Entry tickets usually include a guided tour where friendly staff explain how fruits such as durian, jackfruit and dragon fruit are cultivated.  Visitors also have the opportunity to sample seasonal produce directly in the orchards.

You can purchase a Desaru fruit farm ticket on site or through local tour operators; some packages bundle transport, lunch and farm access.  The farm offers much more than fruit.  There’s an agricultural gallery, a herb and vegetable garden and a petting zoo, where children can interact with rabbits, goats and even ostriches.  For an extra dose of excitement, ATV rides take you on an off‑road spin around the property.  The farm is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

What to Do at the Fruit Farm

  • Taste exotic fruits: Sample whatever’s in season, from creamy durian to brightly coloured dragon fruit.
  • Explore the herb and vegetable garden: Learn about traditional Malaysian herbs and their health benefits.
  • Visit the petting zoo: Interact with ostriches, rabbits and other animals—a hit with kids.
  • Hop on an ATV: Drive through fruit orchards on an all‑terrain vehicle for a bit of adventure.
  • Learn sustainable farming: Attend demonstrations on composting and bee‑keeping to see how the farm uses eco‑friendly practices.

Beyond the Farm: More Things to Do in Desaru

Desaru offers plenty of attractions to round out your day trip:

  • Mangrove River Cruise: Just 15 minutes from the coast, the Sungai Lebam wetlands are perfect for nature lovers.  Junglewalla Desaru operates boat tours through mangroves teeming with herons, monkeys and crabs.  Tours cost around RM 150 per adult and include hotel pick‑up and a guide. Kayaking trips are also available.
  • Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm: This 10‑acre sanctuary houses hundreds of crocodiles and has operated since the 1950s.  Admission costs about RM 10 (≈S$3) and visitors can watch feeding sessions for an additional fee.
  • Beach and water sports: Desaru Beach offers everything from swimming and stand‑up paddleboarding to banana‑boat rides.  Equipment rentals are available at the resorts.
  • Tanjung Balau Fishing Village: Experience traditional fishermen’s life, stroll along the beach and explore the nearby museum showcasing Johor’s maritime history.

Tips for a Hassle‑Free Trip

  • Time your visit: Morning ferries and tours allow you to avoid midday heat and make the most of daylight at the farm.
  • Pack smart: Bring sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent and comfortable shoes for walking around the farm and mangroves.
  • Bring cash: While many establishments accept cards, smaller stalls and attractions like the crocodile farm prefer Malaysian Ringgit.
  • Combine activities: An early Singapore to Desaru ferry lets you tour the fruit farm in the morning and still have time for the mangrove cruise, crocodile farm or a beach afternoon before heading back.
  • Family considerations: Young children will enjoy the petting zoo, beach and boat ride.  Don’t forget plenty of water and snacks.

Final Word

Desaru is an accessible slice of rural Malaysia that’s ideal for short escapes from Singapore.  Immersing yourself in lush fruit plantations, mangrove rivers and coastal fun, you’ll return refreshed and inspired by the richness of Johor’s southern coast.