Is a Duke of York Island Tour Worth It?

This is actually a boat trip from Singapore to a small island in Indonesia (part of the Riau Islands), not the one in Papua New Guinea. You spend most of the day on a fast ferry, then a few hours on a quiet beach with basic snorkeling, lunch, and some island walking. Expect clear but not spectacular water, a lot of time in transit (roughly 2–2.5 hours each way), and a very laid-back, low-key experience. It’s not a flashy resort day — more like a simple tropical escape if you want to get out of the city without flying.

The best time is June to August when the weather is usually drier and seas are calmer. Avoid the December–February monsoon period as the crossing can get rough and tours are often canceled. Expect to pay around S$120–190 per person for a standard day tour including ferry, basic lunch, and snorkel gear. Private speedboat options push closer to S$250–350.

Pick the tour with the earliest departure if you want more actual time on the island. Skip the “premium” packages that promise better food or extra activities — the basic version is usually enough. Bring your own reef-safe sunscreen, water, and snacks; the island has very limited facilities.