Pulau Hantu is under the regulation of Sentosa Development Board; this means you’ll have to get permission from them if you want to camp overnight. However if you are planning to go for a day trip and hate the hassle of applying for a permit, you got to leave the island by 7 pm. We were told by the MPA( Maritime Authority) officer that we should submit our applications by right, but by left, we could just sneak in like what he used to do (We apologize we cannot reveal the officer’s name here).

Bum Boats are readily available at Clifford Pier, one of Singapore’s oldest ports. There are at least 8 bum boat counters vying for your business. Though they are dressed in hot pants, Bermudas and old collar t-shirts and speak in a strong Hokkien accent, don’t judge the book by its cover. They are extremely helpful and nice folks who will give you a quick run through of where they would go, prices and whether you had applied for a permit (see above). To reserve a bumboat, contact Ah Kiat at 9029 6509, he’ll be glad to be of service to you. Do take note that there are new regulations that’ll require you to present your NRIC by the Singapore Customs. Do cooperate with the Customs officers at their makeshift counter in case they are interested in scanning your luggage.

Pulau Hantu is 45 minutes away from Clifford Pier on boat and might give anyone seasickness. Just don’t be surprised if your friend throws up in front of you (or on you). Fortunately, none of the Travel Bug Campers had it and everyone arrived at the Jetty in excitement despite their messy hair caused by the unforgiving winds.

The Boat ride costs SG$200.00 for a to and fro trip on a bum boat, though not cheap, still beats paying so much more for a pathetic ride at Boat Quay. Nothing can beat the feeling of being out in the open sea and you are free to roam and sit on the front end or sides of the boat, but please, don’t obstruct the boatman’s view or you might end up like the Titanic. While on the boat, salty air surrounds you and you should be able to see neighboring ocean liners, birds, buildings, buoys and the full view of the Esplanade, Fullerton One and Merlion when departing from Clifford Pier. If you’re afraid of harmful UV rays, do bring along your cool sunglasses and preferably a cheap one. For really cool sunglasses under $30 with UV protection, contact Vervetue International Pte Ltd at 6837 3538 today.