S'pore-Batam ferries to introduce S$6 fuel surcharge from Mar. 12

Some companies operating ferry services between Singapore and Batam have imposed a surcharge, citing the increase in fuel prices caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict.

BatamFast, Horizon Fast Ferry, and Majestic Fast Ferry will impose a S$6 surcharge on rides from Singapore to the Indonesian island from Mar. 12.

Return trips from Batam to Singapore bear a surcharge of IDR 65,000 (S$5).

BatamFast will also implement surcharges for rides to their two Malaysian destinations: S$12 to Desaru Coast, and S$6 to Pengelih.

Necessary to cover rising costs

Both Horizon Fast and Majestic Fast explained that the fuel surcharges are necessary to help offset rising operational costs.

The decision was made "with reluctance", and may be adjusted as the situation changes, Majestic Fast said.

For these two companies, the surcharges will apply to all tickets issued, including those purchased before Mar. 12.

The fee will be charged upon ticket collection at the respective counters.

Oil prices

Since the U.S.-Israel war on Iran began on Feb. 28, the Strait of Hormuz — which carries about one-fifth of the world's crude oil — has remained closed.

On Mar. 9, oil prices surged past US$100 (S$127) per barrel for the first time since 2022, then jumped over the mark again on Mar. 12, CNN reported.

Iranian officials warned on Mar. 11 that it could reach US$200 (S$254) a barrel, as it launched attacks on merchant ships, according to Reuters.

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