Mangrove Kayaking Adventure in Singapore

Interesting action packed tour. Be prepared to sweat.

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.

Good experience but a little odd

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.

Knowledgeable guide, beautiful city-escape

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!

THANK YOU.

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.

Excellent kayak expérience close to the heart of Singapore

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.

Excellent

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.

This activity did not deliver.

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.

Marvellous mangrove (2 person) kayak.

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)).

Mangroves, kayaking and otters.....wonderful

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.

Does not live up to either it's name or description

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 fun for the adventurous

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!

Fun kayak adventure of Pulau Ubin

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.

Fun but come prepared!

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.

So fun really helpful

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...

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

Fun trip, great sights

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!

Nature experience in singapore

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

Great Nature Getaway

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.

Peaceful and physical 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!!!

Beautiful and peaceful

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

Not great

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.

Pulau Ubin: 2-person Kayaking along the Coast and Inland to the Mangrove

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!!!

Sea otters frolicking near the shore

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.

Fantastic kayaking experience - great family day out

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.

Keep up the good work

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

Highly recommend - very peaceful - good fun

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!!

Kayaking adventure might start here

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.

Great Experience and Enjoyable Day

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.

Kayaking Adventure at Pulau Ubin

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 guide, fun trip

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!

Mangrove Kayaking Pulau Ubin

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.

Nice activity for family

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

Excellent activity

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.

Awesome!

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 low key kayaking trip

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

Great mangrove trip

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

Fun kayaking tour.

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

Kayaking for all

Very relaxed kayaking along the coast and through the mangroves. Our guide was very friendly and helped us spot a number of birds - hornbill, sea eagles and a lovely blue kingfisher. Recommend as a chance to experience another side of Singapore. PS absolutely no reflection on this tour or it’s providers, but sad to see lots of rubbish floating along coastline.

A tranquil kampung and nature experience

My friend and I felt very well-prepared for the trip thanks to the clear and comprehensive instructions provided before the trip and the pre-event briefing from our guide. The kayaking activity was a much welcomed respite from the business of the mainland -- for a moment I forgot that I was in Singapore while paddling next to kelongs. Our guide expertly and patiently navigated us through the mangroves, so that we need not worry about getting lost had we explored the area on our own. Overall it was a slow-paced activity allowing time to take in one's surroundings and even lose one's sense of time, which also made the activity very beginner-friendly. The shower facilities are makeshift cubicles for a simple rinse off, hence do not expect much -- perhaps that is what completes the kampung experience :)

Splendid Guide and Experience!

Was a first time for the kids and the whole experience was amazing! Our guide (Jonathan) was wonderful with the kids. His patience and gentle encouragement allowed us to step out of our comfort zone with ease. The 4 hours flew past quickly, and it was an extremely fruitful learning session, even for me!

Highly recommended! Enjoyed the whole thing :)

My husband and I had an amazing time! We thoroughly enjoyed the program from the start to the end. The guide, Sheng Min, was very fun and answered all of our questions. We also learnt plenty of things about Pulau Ubin history, general Singapore geography and about the Mangrove biodiversity. The views were super relaxing and kayaking wasn't too intense. Highly recommended!! Thank you <3

Fantastic

Had a fantastic time on this kayaking adventure. Guide made the session. His knowledge made for a great afternoon. Totally recommend. Will be back!

Happy & Fun Kayaking!

Well planned schedule, friendly instructor( Shafiq) and weather was awesome! The tide direction made it convenient to kayak on both legs of the journey and the route was scenic and amazing.

Amazing Guide & Fantastic Experience!

The whole program was a very pleasant experience. It was very smooth going and the duration was just nice. Eric, our guide, was very knowledgable about Ubin as he gave us nuggets of information throughout the program. He also helped us take wonderful shots along the way for our memories, and we are really grateful for that. 10/10 would recommend this program for everyone!

Fun family activitiy

Kelvin our guide was exemplary. Inclusive and welcoming. He made sure nobody felt left out, and highlighted points of interest.

Awesome guide, awesome trip!

We went for the Mangrove tour, it was relaxing, our guide was very friendly. After a quick introduction and practice on the water, we were on our way! Will be happy to try out the other routes they have. Also thank you to our guide for taking plenty of photos!

Fresh way to explore Ubin

As a Singaporean, I've been to Ubin many times. But exploring it through the water channels is a fresh experience, allowing us to get up close with the wildlife. Our guide Michael is also very nice and experienced sharing with us knowledge on Ubin and the mangrove as we kayak around.

Best mangrove experience

The guide Jo was lovely. She was experienced and cool. She gave us many insights into the mangrove and safely guided us through the whole trip

Great time

Had an awesome time where we spotted local wildlife such as eagles. Did not know Singapore has such biodiversity.

Great experience

The overall experience was very good. Our guide was very sweet, reliable and attentive to us and our 9 years old paddling her way through the water. I would highly recommend it.