Just a stone’s throw from the mainland Singapore, the Southern Islands are ideal for quick water escapades from the hustles and bustles of city life. Relax within the lush greenery and natural foliage of the Southern Islands.
Have some fun in the sun with activities including swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and kite flying. Enjoy the day of casual activities at some of the island destination:
Pulau Seringat – The extended part of Lazarus Island, Pulau Seringat is ideal for a quiet afternoon of fishing.
St. John Island (previously Pulau Sakijang Bendera) – Beautiful and tranquil island for relaxation and intimate getaways with friends and family. People like coming here for picnics and sightseeing.
Folklore has it that pirates once used it as a hideout. Situated approximately 6.5km south of Singapore, St John’s Island (previously known as Pulau Sekijang Bendara) makes an idyllic getaway to get a glorious tan, a picnic on the sandy beach, explore off-beaten treks around the island or simply laze away by the lagoon. Swimming and picnicking are the most popular activities on both islands. The 39-hectare island is also a haven for a host of flora and fauna. Tropical Marine Science Institute, Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore’s Marine Aquaculture Centre are also located on the island. St. John’s has three good swimming lagoons.
Kusu Island (Peak Island or Pulau Tembakul) – Known as “Tortoise Island” to the locals and can be considered the most unique island, it is frequently visited by both tourists and pilgrims alike. Malay and Chinese temples are located here, where many worshipers still come to pray during lunar calendar. This is a great destination for sun-seekers and outdoor lovers.
Kusu Island, located just 5.6km away from Singapore, which means “Tortoise Island” in Chinese, is also known as Peak Island or Pulau Tembakul in Malay. From 2 tiny outcrops on a reef, the island was enlarged and transformed into an 8.5-hectare island holiday resort.
Legend has it that a magical tortoise turned itself into an island to save 2 shipwrecked sailors – a Malay & a Chinese. Each year during the ninth lunar month (falls around Sep to Nov according to the Lunar Calendar), thousands of devotees flock here for their annual Kusu Pilgrimage to pay homage for good health, peace, happiness, good luck and prosperity.
On the island is the popular Chinese temple – Da Bo Gong (The Merchant God or God of Prosperity). Built in 1923 by a wealthy businessman, the temple houses 2 main deities – the Da Bo Gong and Guan Yin. The former is highly regarded as having the power to confer prosperity, cure diseases, calm the sea and avert danger, while Guan Yin is known as the ‘giver of sons’.
On top the rugged hillock stand three Kramats (holy shrines of Malay Saints) to commemorate a pious man (Syed Abdul Rahman), his mother (Nenek Ghalib) & sister (Puteri Fatimah) who lived in the 19th century. Many devotees will climb the 152 steps leading to the Kramats to pray for wealth, good marriage, good health and harmony. The shrines are also popular with childless couples who would pray for children. Kusu Island is also well loved for its blue lagoons, pristine beaches and tranquil settings. Visitors can pay a visit to the wishing well and Tortoise Sanctuary as well.
Sisters Island – Sisters Island are separated by a deep and narrow channel. The beaches are secluded and the waters are rich.
A long time ago, there lived a pair of sisters, Minah & Lina, who shared a bond so strong that nothing could separate them. But one day, the notorious chief of the Orang Laut met and fell in love with Lina. Despite the sisters’ pleas, the chief took her away and forced her into the sampan. Just then, the sky turned dark and a storm broke out. As Minah made a final attempt to save her sister from leaving the jetty, a large wave came and engulfed her. On seeing this, Lina freed herself from her captors and jumped into the sea to join Minah.
The storm subsided but nowhere could the sisters be found. Instead, two islands emerged from where they had drowned. Called Subar Laut (3.9 ha) & Subar Darat (1.7 ha), the two small islands are now known as Sisters’ Islands. It was said that every year on that very day when the sisters turned into islands, there will always be storm and rain.
Marina Bay and the Singapore city skyline – Catch the spectacular view of Singapore city skyline as our yacht cruises slowly along the coast. Marina Bay Sands and Singapore Flyer are just two of the main outlines lighting the sky, experience it from a different angle!
Sentosa and Fireworks Display – Sentosa island is a tourist destination on its own, and during your cruise, let us bring you to catch a glimpse of this popular spot too. There’s also great fireworks and dramatic effects from Wings of Time (previously Songs of The Seas) every night; this could be just the showstopper you need to end a memorable cruise.
