Penang Ferry service

The famous heritage ride across the Penang Channel

Probably the most cherished and well-known icon of Penang, this ferry service which carries motor vehicles and foot passengers became operational in 1925, linking Butterworth on the mainland to George Town on the island. Prior to that, the ferries in the form of large boats were meant for goods and people only.

Many locals and visitors find the scenic breezy journey of about fifteen minutes a most endearing experience. 

Built in the form of a huge barge which opens at both ends, the ferry generally accommodates vehicles on the lower deck and foot passengers on the upper deck. The eight ferries in the current fleet and nine retired ones are named after islands in Malaysia.

The terminal at Butterworth called Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal is located next to the railway station. A bus terminal for coaches to local and outstation destinations is sited next to the railway station.

The first ferry departs from the ferry terminal in Butterworth at 5:20am and the last at 12:40 midnight. On the island side, the first ferry departs at 5:40am and the last at 1:00am.

For more infomation, call +604-2102 363