Mangrove Kayaking Adventure In Singapore

“Something other people don’t do in Singapore” is what I googled to find this fun adventure. We had a fantastic time with our guide Joe and met some lovely new friends. Joe knew all the local history and fun facts that he shared along the way. You need to read the information about getting to Pulau Ubin on time. The boats only leave when there are 12 passengers so give yourself time. It’s $4 per person each way and a very short walk to find the Adventure Kayaking building. There’s a good seafood restaurant if you’re hungry after paddling. Take some cash with you as there is a stop where you can buy drinks. The coconuts are worth trying too. Paddling can get tiring but there are lots of rests and time to explore. We saw Hornbills and a beautiful big Lizard lazing in the sun on a branch. Thankyou to Joe and the team for such a great experience.

A great morning kayaking around the mangroves of Pulau Ubin. Our guide was knowledgeable, competent, and very entertaining. It was very relaxed, and we saw eagles, all sorts of strange fish, learnt about the local fish farm and boat yards, and had a great time. It is about an hour to the location from the centre of the city, but well worth the journey. My children thoroughly enjoyed it, and I would happily do it again if I come back.

Must be strong and healthy to carry the boat, People who are healthy enough to row. Is not sufficient. Must be able to carry the boat with the help of your partner.

Jaqueline was a wonderful Guide, very considerate regarding each participant’s strength making pauses as we were less experienced. She told us a lot about local culture and people.

Amazing experience! Not difficult at all but enough of a challenge to be exciting. Our guide was awesome 👏

Our guide Kelvin was knowledgeable and friendly. The tour itself was safe and people of all ages could keep up. Highly recommended.

Better than I have expected. It is like a hidden gem of Singapore. The place feels natural with beautiful mangroves and birds.

Great tour, great and experienced guide. Guide is patient with beginners and very conscientious. Being shows you can get wet and bring water.

LOL ............THIS IS STANARD AI .. Meaning """ Thanks for the $$$$ the first time and even though we did not live up to expectations we hope you will come back for a second "scimming" .... From The Operator Dear Lean, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We sincerely apologize that your recent kayaking experience did not meet your expectations. We have thoroughly reviewed the details of your tour and spoken with your guide, Jodi, to better understand the situation. We regret to hear that the tour was cut shorter than the advertised time. While the tide movement can sometimes influence the speed of the kayaking, Jodi could have managed the time better to ensure a more fulfilling experience by exploring additional areas or spending more time in the mangroves. We have addressed this with him and will take measures to prevent similar situations in the future. Regarding the lack of wildlife sightings, we agree with your feedback and have reminded our guide that, even in the absence of wildlife, there is still plenty to share about the rich environment of Pulau Ubin, including the mangroves, plant life, and the island's history. Engaging with our guests and providing them with an informative and enjoyable experience is a top priority for us, and we regret that this was not reflected during your tour. We truly appreciate your feedback, as it helps us to improve the quality of our services. Please accept our apologies once again, and we hope that you will consider giving us another opportunity to provide a more positive experience in the future. Warm regards, Rebecca Asian Detours Team Read less

We had an incredible experience with Daniel as our guide! He was fun, professional, and really enjoyed what he was doing. We learned a lot about the mangroves and had a lot of fun along the way! We met some new friends, saw some of the local wildlife (eagles, jellyfish, and lizards), and learned about Singapore’s plans to be more self-sufficient. I would recommend being in decent shape as the kayaking can be difficult, especially between the start point and the river/entrance to the mangroves.

Great way to spend a weekend morning, learned so much about the area from Isaac and Daniel. Highly recommend...

We had a lovely trip. Our guide Jacqueline was lovely and gave us lots of interesting facts. I had tired arms by end of trip

Really good tour. I took my son and father on this tour and they both had a good time. The guides were friendly knowledgeable and was interesting to see another side of Singapore. If you haven’t kayak’s before though be prepared to work hard as there are some long stretches that call for a lot of upper body strength. Pack lots of sunscreen and wear long sleeves.

The actual kayaking part of this tour was amazing but sadly it didn’t last quite long enough. There was a lot of talking on land, a float test which you had to basically hold hands of the other group members and instructions on how to tell where the front of the boat was. For teaching very basic things some of the kayaking was rather rough and against the wind. The guide was knowledgeable and the equipment was well maintained. All in all if you enjoy kayaking and don’t mind being taught the basics again then its a great tour.

A visit to Pulau-Ubin island for this kayaking tour is a must-do for the 'outdoorsy people' visiting Singapore. We were so impressed by our guide and overall experience with Adventures by Asian Detours. Our guide gave his insights on growing up in Singapore and provided more details about the city-state. He was also knowledgeable about Pulau-Ubin, its natural resources, and the animals. We even saw jumping fish, monkeys, and monitor lizards. The quiet of the mangroves was a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. I would do it again!

Arrived only to find out that TripAdvisor had cancelled our booking because the card payment hadn't gone through, although we ticked the box saying 'pay at venue' these guys were so apologetic and 'Daniel' came to the rescue. Thank you so much. Yes the equipment is worn but it's in constant use and you should not be doing this if you are expecting anything else. You are signing up to the whole experience including carrying your canoe down to the waters edge. Anyway, we had a fun time and returned home exhausted.

Great experience paddling the mangrove forest. Singapore is a vibrant thriving metropolis but there are access points close to nature - only a 40 min grab from our hotel to the ferry port and a short ride to the island. The tour guides were excellent - Calvin was knowledgeable and extremely skilled. Emily was friendly and encouraging. The wildlife did not disappoint - we saw hornbills, a purple headed heron, eagles, blue kingfishers, and the pinacle of our sightinings was a Black Forest cobra swimming across the water a safe distance ahead. Very worthwhile trip. The only negative is how heartbreaking it is to see all the plastic garbage in the sea - so hard on the animals. South Asia has a very serious pollution issue that must be solved! But this trip and operator are top notch and I highly recommend, even for new kayakers.

The trip was great the island is amazing. Takes a little bit of organising to get to the island, we stayed on Orchard Road and it took about 40 mins in a taxi to get the ferry terminal. You then have to wait for 12 people before the bumb boat will leave there is no guarantee on time therefore please leave plenty of time to get to the island. The bumb boat is an experience on its own and we really enjoyed the ride. The kayak was good, I would say you do need to be reasonably fit as you carry your equipment to the shaw line a couple of mins from the hut and the actual kayak on the return is a little more difficult as we went against the current but still very enjoyable and plenty of opportunity to rest and take your time no rushing. Different capabilities in the session but this was fine too as each person can go at their own pace. Richard was our guide he was great very knowledgeable about the area and patient with everyone. My only negative is that the water is very dirty and it was disappointing to see that the water is not taken care of. I would definitely recommend the trip as it gives a different more authentic experience of Singapore. There is also plenty of options to hire a bike and cycle after if you wish.

I agree with the latest review, but for different reasons. Just as well my children had never done this sort of activities previously. My husband and I thought this was far too expensive for it offered: the equipment was old; the guide knew very little of the flora and the fauna; the area was dirty with rubbish; no wheels to take the kayakes to the water; etc. I can not recommend this activity.

The company that run this are v capable and instruction and safety are very clear. The mangrove kayaking was beautiful and peaceful. Being able to buy fresh coconut juice at the bridge was a nice touch. The open sea part was more challenging but still suitable for anyone to do. Bring your own hat, cream, water bottle and water shoes (though they have some spares you can borrow (if they fit)).

We had a brilliant time. Lee was an excellent guide and very patient and instructive with everyone. He showed us some wonderful scenery and wildlife including otters, Eagles and even a blue kingfisher. Lee was always very conscious of safety issues with every thing we did. I would love to go again and highly recommend it to anyone with a sms of adventure and likes to get out of the city. Thanks Lee.

I rarely write a bad review but this experience deserves one. Our guide who will remain nameless as we weren't told it, was indifferent at best. He wanted us to use single kayaks only, however my husband and I stood our ground, and had a double kayak. The other people on the experience had to have singles which they weren't happy about. We were told to have a practice paddle before we hit the open water, didn't happen. Went straight out into the open water. It has been many years since we have kayaked, fortunately my husband was ok with it. We went to the mangroves, stopped for a very short time to see some monkeys and have a drink, then straight back to the finish. There was no talking and looking for any birds or otters, and our guide was well ahead of us coming back. His disinterest in us was very obvious. The tour was less than 2 hours, nowhere near the 4 as advertised. I wouldn't recommend this tour if our nameless man was the guide.

Unique and fantastic fun. Just the right level of challenge for the fit, active and curious adventurers. We had such a great time learning from such a knowledgeable guide seeing the mangroves and some of the wildlife. All necessary equipment is provided. Good on emphasis safety with a briefing and explanation of the tour provided. Enough instruction is given so that beginners are able to join in adequately. Moderate fitness recommended. The guide really does check to make sure you have a good time and to ensure on safety (eg. Storm). Very different way of enjoying Singapore. Totally enjoyed exploring Pulau Ubin in this way. Look forward to doing it again hopefully!

Fantastic and unique mangrove kayak adventure. Lots of fun with a knowledgeable guide. The right mix of fun relaxation and challenge. Totally recommend this activity if you love nature, love adventure! Very well organised and helpful, prepared for all weather conditions. Comprehensive safety briefing provided as well as all the necessary equipment, including life jackets, rinsing area for after your adventure. Fine even for novices due to the care and attention from the team though moderate fitness would be very helpful. I had a really great time (2 adults, 1 teen). It was such a unique way to enjoy Pulau Ubin/Singapore, peaceful. If lucky you can see some of the wildlife. We saw monitor lizards and river swallows as well kites. There may be small footed otters in the mangroves.

It was a great family trip but we did not come prepared. The website should tell travelers to come prepared with a change of clothes (you will get wet when you test the life vest and learn the basic strokes in the water), water shoes (no open toes allowed, you can borrow shoes that others have left behind), sunblock (you are out on the water the entire time with no shade breaks), a hat and some cash to buy a drink at the pitstop (or the guides will pay and you pay them back). We did not see any birds in the mangroves but the mangroves are pretty and peaceful. It was more work than expected but a great memory to take home with us from Singapore.

Amazing Really helpful to My wife feet were messed up and they made it all work out and fun Remember sunscreen

This was a great way to get off the beaten track and see the wild side of Singapore. Our leader was entertaining, knowledgeable and made sure we were safe. The kayaking was not difficult. All in all, this was great urban escape adventure

It was our first time kayaking. The instructions were great, and the trip itself really fun. Even getting to Pulau Ubin was enjoyable. Highly recommend!

Trip caters for very well for all abilities. We had a lovely time floating around enjoying the scenery and conversation with the guides.

Had a fantastic time exploring the peaceful mangroves on Pulau Ubin. Tony was a fantastic guide who made sure we were safe and getting the most from our experience.

It was such a peaceful yet physical experience to kayak on calm waters and through the mangrove forest. The guides were fantastic. Recommend it highly. Thankyou!!!

Loved taking a dip in the lagoon!! Paddling through the Mangroves was both a peaceful and beautiful experience. Our guides were wonderful!

The guide was very inexperienced. There was some wildlife, but the only thing the guide pointed out was the eagles. The rest we had to find/look for ourselves. She didn’t know answers to questions about the mangroves and general area. The groups were not split according to experience level, which would have helped things. There is a lot of kayaking on the outside of the island before you get into the mangroves. That’s fine, just unexpected. No snacks are provided, so I would recommend bringing some.

Jo was an excellent teacher and guide. She explained kayaking rowing technique and clearly described the route while providing “rest stops” and “check-ins” along the way. The Mangrove area river was very calm and peaceful. A great way to chill and relax before the paddle back in the afternoon wind and strong current. Only complaint is the kayak is not very comfortable for a tall person - I am 6’4”. No back support. Happy kayaking!!!

Great excursion. XuYong was a terrific guide. It's a beautiful area, and the kayaking was a lot of fun. Our group had a blast. We saw sea otters frolicking by the shore. Total time for the actual kayaking was about 2 hours. Facilities are rustic, including place to rinse off. (Don't expect nice showers.) Be sure to bring a bag water-proof bag to keep valuables dry. (The sporting goods store Decathlon sells such items.) I would have been convenient to bring a special phone pouch (so that I would not have had to keep taking my phone out of the bag to take photos), but it was still OK. Expect some fare negotiation on the ferry ride over (somewhat annoying, since the ferry terminal looked pretty official, so didn't expect that from the small boat captains at all). Be sure to get to ferry terminal early.

A fabulous day out at Pulau Ubin, kayaking around part of the island and then into the Mangrove swamps. Two families - one mum and a 7-yr old in each kayak - and it was a great activity for the boys. Sometimes they paddled and sometimes they didn't, but it's perfectly achievable for one semi-fit parent to power a 2-person kayak around :-) Single kayaks also available. Max is two adults and one child. It takes about an hour for the initial briefing, putting on of life jackets and carrying the kayaks to the water's edge.You are required to lie back in the water to test your life jacket so you will get wet. Canoe shoes are available if you need them and strongly advisable so you don't have to carry out around soggy trainers. Do take a spare change of clothes, and have breakfast before you arrive, plus snacks for when you are canoeing. There is a place to store your belongings whilst you are out on the water. You will (hopefully) have a stop at Ah Ma's drinks stall - she sells fantastic fresh and ice cold coconuts, plus other soft drinks. Our guides were fantastic. Knowledgeable, helpful, calm. We were a big group of about 20, with a large age range, and it didn't matter in the slightest. It was a lovely group and a fantastic day out - great fun, fab memories and we have some awesome photos provided by the company.

Perfect weather, excellent guides, kudos to the team who lead us. Would definitely come back to sign up.

We were a group of 2 couples and had a fantastic tour. Kevin was excellent - he went through all the safety checks and how to paddle/steer the kayaks before we set off.. During the tour he was very informative and obviously passionate about the swamp land how changes in the environment can effect the mangroves. We have hired bikes and ridden around Palau Ubin many times. First time kayaking and it was so beautiful. Peaceful, the water was calm, the wildlife spotting was great and we had an excellent time. Highly recommend if you want to chill out for a couple of hours and just let your cares flow away!!

Great little adventure for beginners. The guide was amazing, very passionate and well informed about the history of Pulau Ubin. He made the whole experience relaxing, enjoyable and stress free. He patiently explained to us significance of mangroves in the entire ecosystem and why they matter more than ever now. I will hope to come back for a longer trip around the island.

Had a great experience kayaking. Our guide was very knowledgeable and shared some great insights about the village and its history. A very enjoyable day and a must do activity to see a different aspect to Singapore life.

Our family of three loved tihs experience! It was easy to get to Pulau Ubin by bumboat and a very brief walk to the starting address. Our guide, Jared, customized the experience to the three of us. He provided the perfect balance of guidance and opportunities to explore on our own and was a great source of information about the local culture- for example the floating fish farms we kayaked past on our way to the mouth of the river and the impromptu temple built up at the halfway point of the trip. Kayaking through the mangroves is peaceful and easy. We saw several gorgeous herons and other birds. I definitely recommend this experience and this business to other families.

Great commentary to the interesting world of new and old visiting the kempangs and the mangroves. You can take it easy or row. It is your choice. The experience is fun rain or shine. Shout out to the friendly team!

Me and my son went kayaking to the mangroves on the 27th of october. It was a sunny day and the trip was very beautiful. Also the instructor was knowledgable and in good mood even as our fellow canoeists. In shortly we very enjoyed this wonderful trip. If I may give critisicm, I saw many carbage in the mangrove area. It should be nice if your company set a good example to clean that up once a month, or clean it up once a week. That should be better for Flora and fauna and your company does a good thing for humankind.

It was a nice experience. Both myself and my son are first timers. The guide was patient and encouraging. Very knowledgeable, with lots of insider stories to share. Would love to go again

The guide - Bennett - was knowledgeable, a great conversationalist and friendly too. This activity is capped at 8 participants to allow for maximum interaction but we lucked out and there were only 4 of us on a Saturday. We not only saw the mangroves but got to also explore the 'side alleys' along the mangroves and at one point even got the chance to swim if we wanted to. The activity was easy to do & friendly for beginners. It's a total distance of about 7km but it's much easier on water in a kayak.

My team and I really enjoyed the whole experience that Asian Detours have provided during this trip. Rebecca was prompt and patient in replying all my queries and the facilitator was experienced. Tiring but fun nonetheless.

Fun kayaking trip. Good for beginners. Our guide Daniel was very patient and took time to teach us how to kayak.

Paddling through the mangroves, it was so quiet and peaceful. The guide was fantastic and grandma’s drinks were refreshing

Great way to see a different side of Singapore. Very professional and well organised. My 15 year old and I enjoyed the experience.