Taking the Penang ferry is the mode of transport taken to Penang Island from the mainland (Butterworth) which is easily accessed from Butterworth railway station.
Arriving From Padang Besar by Train
If you have just done the trip from Thailand to Padang Besar you will find signs giving you directions from Butterworth station to the ferry terminal (you can’t miss them). The bus terminal is also next to the railway station.
Penang Ferry costs: Adult: RM1.20, child (5-12yrs old) RM0.60, bicycle RM1.40, and car RM7.70.
Ferry times: From Butterworth 5.20am – 00.40am, Penang Island 5.40am – 1.00am. Ferries depart every 15 – 20 mins approximately, and it take 15 minutes to arrive (enjoy the wonderful sea breeze).
Arriving at the Jetty and Transport
The ferry stops at the Penang jetty in Georgetown. The bus station is located here that you can use for transport if your hotel is not within walking distance (an information counter can advise you which bus to take). You can take the 101 bus (also goes to Batu Ferringhi beach) down Chulia street, which is the backpacker and main tourist area. Chulia street leads onto Penang rd.
Penang Jetty Bus Terminal
The bus service is great and cheap. It’s a breath of fresh air using a bus here after being in Bangkok for a while.
Walking to Chulia street? Cross the pedestrian bridge outside to the other side of the road, walk a couple of minutes then turn right on to Lebuh Chulia. I always walk, it’s easy!
You can also take a taxi. I am not a big fan of Penang taxis because they have never put the meter on and I am used to the Thai taxi fare costs being cheaper, and with a meter (not always though, another article).
Penang is a great Island with lots of history, places to visit and of course the food here is remarkable (if you like Indian, Chinese, Malaysian and Thai food, of course).
