Fill Me In
With Singaporeans stuck in the country, unable to travel, there are only so many corners of the island one can explore. But let’s not forget that Singapore is a coastal island surrounded by water, and we can still sail away for a couple of hours for a whole new experience.
Whether you’re a sports kind of person or just want a change of scenery, there are plenty of water activities that will be able to curb that adventurous itch of yours (even if its just temporary).
Cruise to nowhere on a private yacht
Staycations are a great way for a change of scenery, but you might not be able to shake away the feeling of being cooped up in another room, so why not head out to open waters on a private yacht instead?
ONE°15 Life has the biggest fleet of yachts from nifty fishing boats to sailing boats and spacious catamarans for every occasion. Furry-legged friends are welcome as their yachts are dog-friendly, and – depending on the boat you charter – comes with top-tier sound systems, kayaks, snorkelling equipment and even a jacuzzi.
Dock in the middle of the sea to breathe in the salty sea breeze, or drop by the Southern Islands like St John’s Island or Lazarus Island for a mini beach getaway. The clear waters and clean beaches are less crowded than Sentosa’s and boast a nicer view than East Coast Park. Be as rowdy and noisy as you want without having to disturb other people!
Paddle out to ‘sea’ a different view
Always see those scenic images of the city’s skyline on postcards and tourist ads and wondered what it would be like to view it with your own eyes?
There are two popular kayak places frequented by locals – Siloso Beach and Marina Bay. Take in Singapore’s most iconic skyline from a different perspective as you paddle down the Singapore River. Work those arm muscles and slowly paddle down the calm waters together with a friend or a loved one. Definitely makes for a memorable and unorthodox date for the books!
If kayaking sounds too tiring on the arms, the PAssion WaVe at Marina Bay also offers paddle boat rentals that can seat up to groups of six. For the more adventurous, head over to Pulau Ubin for their kayak tours through mangroves on the island to spot kingfishers, hornbills and herons. If you’re very, very lucky, you might even spot an otter family or the even rarer pink dolphin pod.
Romance on the river
Who says romance is dead? Not The Royal Albatross, the only luxury tall ship in Singapore that offers an unforgettable dining cruise experience. Set sail just before sunset then indulge in a three-course meal (wine optional), enjoying the warm orange glows of golden hour hitting the sprawling view in front of you.
With overseas proposals and elaborate celebration plans no longer on the table, the sunset cruise is a much more achievable alternative. According to them, birthday celebrations happen almost every night, and proposals once a week.
The private tables are seated on the open deck facing the waters, where diners are accompanied by a ‘live’ singer and dim string lights for ambience. Bring out your best summer attire as you’ll be seated outdoors, although you might want to avoid dangly accessories or anything that catches the wind easily. No shoes are allowed on board, so leave your heels and funky socks for your regular dinner date on land.
Go on a kelong tour
Kelong tours are usually not the first thing to come to mind for water activities in Singapore but it is a refreshing change from the likes of beach-bumming and cruising. Let’s Go Kelong Tour, organised by former fisherman Robin Loh, takes you on a two-hour fishing tour in Singapore’s surrounding waters.
During the tour, Loh relegates exciting tales from his years of being a fisherman, like how he once witnessed smugglers racing goods to Singapore’s shoreline in small wooden boats with the Police Coast Guard in hot pursuit. His knowledge as a fisherman also comes in handy when he points out various species you’ll come across.
Take on an obstacle course…at sea!
This one’s just for kids… or the kid in you! Leap, climb, jump, and conquer Singapore’s first-ever aqua inflatable obstacle course at HydroDash, which just opened its floating doors on Palawan Beach in Sentosa.
Fans of Ninja Warrior will love the slippery obstacle course, which has four different tiers of difficulty for kids (and adults) of all ages sectioned into zones. Good fitness and flexibility will allow you to conquer the maze of slides, towers, bridges and slopes, but slipping off into the cooling water in this heat can be more tempting at times!
Entry is limited to two hours slots, buoyancy aids are included, and a lifeguard will always be on duty to ensure your safety.
