Flight + ferry
Fastest option via Kuala Lumpur, smooth overall transfer
Bus + ferry
Cheapest option, overnight possible, longer journey
Flight via Kota Bharu
Alternative route, more complex but interesting option
Train routes
No railway to coast, requires multiple transfers
Quick answer: The best way to travel from Penang to Redang Island is by flight to Kuala Terengganu followed by a ferry. The cheapest option is a long-distance bus + ferry, but the journey takes much longer. Book flights and ferry tickets in advance during the high season.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: About 500 km via Kuala Terengganu.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Bus + ferry: 13–15 hours • Flight + ferry: 7–9 hours.
- 💰 Cost: Bus + ferry: US$25–30 • Flight + ferry: US$70–200.
- 🚍 Cheapest: Bus to Kuala Terengganu + ferry.
- ✈️ Fastest: Flight via Kuala Lumpur + ferry.
- ⛴️ Ferry departure: Merang Jetty or Shahbandar Jetty.
- 🌤️ Best season: March–October. Ferry services are limited during the monsoon.
Last updated: April 2026
From Penang to Redang Island you can travel by bus + ferry or plane.
The travel distance from Penang to Redang Island is about 500 km via Kuala Terengganu. There are 2 main transport options: a tourist bus + ferry or a flight via Kuala Lumpur. There is no direct train to Kuala Terengganu and no regular direct flight from Penang to Redang Island.
The cheapest option is a bus to Kuala Terengganu followed by a ferry to Redang Island. The journey takes about 13–15 hours and costs around US$25–30 per person. Ferries depart from Merang Jetty or Shahbandar Jetty and the boat ride takes about 1.5–2 hours.
The fastest option is a flight via Kuala Lumpur. Direct flights connect Penang with Kuala Lumpur, followed by a flight to Kuala Terengganu or a limited charter flight to Redang Island. Travel time is about 7–9 hours and prices range from US$70–200 per person. You can also take a flight from Penang to Kota Bharu and continue by bus to Kuala Terengganu.
| Transfer modes from Penang to Redang: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bus + Ferry (via Kuala Terengganu) | 13–15 hours | $25–30 per person |
| Flights via Kuala Lumpur | 7–9 hours | $70–200 per person |
How do I get from Penang to Redang Island?
1. BUS + FERRY from Penang to Redang
👉 Bus + ferry via Kuala Terengganu is the cheapest way to travel from Penang to Redang Island.
- ✔️ Ideal for: budget travelers and those with flexible schedules
- ✔️ Travel time: ~13–15 hours
- ✔️ Cost: $25–30 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: moderate (long bus journey + ferry transfer)
- ✅ Best Option: Bus to Kuala Terengganu + ferry to Redang Island
- 💡 Tip: Check bus and ferry schedules in advance, as connections are limited and timing is important for a smooth transfer.
The cheapest way to travel from Penang to Redang Island is by bus to Kuala Terengganu and ferry to the island. This 2-step transfer takes about 13–15 hours and costs around US$25–30 per person. There is no train to Kuala Terengganu.
Adik Beradik and Ekspress Mutiara operate buses from Penang to Kuala Terengganu. The journey takes about 9–10 hours, with departures from Sungai Nibong, Penang Sentral or Butterworth.
Buses arrive at the Kuala Terengganu Bus Terminal. Tickets cost about US$10–13 per person and should be booked in advance.
From Kuala Terengganu, take a ferry from Shahbandar Jetty to Jeti Pulau Redang. The ferry takes about 1.5–2 hours and costs around US$13–14 per person.
Bus + ferry is the best option for budget travelers. Book tickets online early during weekends and the peak season.
2. FLIGHT from Penang to Redang Island (via KL)
👉 Flight via Kuala Lumpur is the fastest way to travel from Penang to Redang Island.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who want to save time and prefer air travel
- ✔️ Travel time: ~4–6 hours (including transfer in Kuala Lumpur)
- ✔️ Cost: $70–200 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: high (two short flights with modern airlines)
- ✅ Best Option: Flight to Kuala Lumpur + connecting flight with Berjaya Air or SKS Airways to Redang
- 💡 Tip: Check availability of Redang flights first, as schedules are limited and may not run daily.
The fastest way to travel from Penang to Redang Island is by plane via Kuala Lumpur. Airlines such as AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Firefly and Batik Air operate flights to Kuala Lumpur, while Berjaya Air and SKS Airways offer limited flights to Redang.
The flight from Penang to Kuala Lumpur takes about 1 hour, followed by a 1.5-hour flight to Redang Island. Another option is to fly to Kuala Terengganu and continue by ferry.
Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Redang are limited, so check availability before planning your trip. Total flight costs range from about US$70–200 per person, depending on the season.
Flights depart from Penang International Airport and arrive at Kuala Lumpur Airport or Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport before continuing to Redang Airport. Book flights early, as seats on Redang routes are limited.
❓ FAQ + Tips — Travel from Penang to Redang Island
How to book tickets from Penang to Redang Island?
Book buses and flights via 12go.asia. Flights to Redang by Berjaya Air or SKS Airways can be booked on their official websites.
How long does it take to travel from Penang to Redang Island?
Bus + ferry takes about 13–15 hours, while flights via Kuala Lumpur take about 7–9 hours.
How much does it cost to travel from Penang to Redang Island?
Bus + ferry costs about US$25–30 per person. Flights via Kuala Lumpur cost around US$70–200 per person.
What is the distance from Penang to Redang Island?
The travel distance is about 500 km via Kuala Terengganu.
Is there a train from Penang to Kuala Terengganu?
No. There is no railway to Kuala Terengganu. The nearest rail route is Kuala Lumpur to Kota Bharu.
What is the best way to travel from Penang to Redang Island?
The fastest option is a flight via Kuala Lumpur. Direct flights to Redang are limited.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Penang to Redang Island?
The cheapest option is a bus to Kuala Terengganu followed by a ferry, from about US$25 per person.
Is there a direct flight from Penang to Redang Island?
No. You need to travel via Kuala Lumpur or fly to Kuala Terengganu and continue by ferry.
How do you get from Georgetown to Penang Airport?
Penang International Airport is about 18 km from Georgetown and can be reached by bus, taxi or Grab.
Where to stay in Kuala Terengganu or Redang Island?
Kuala Terengganu offers hotels and guesthouses, while Redang has mainly beach resorts. Book accommodation online.
Which other islands can you visit on Malaysia’s east coast?
Popular alternatives are the Perhentian Islands and Tioman Island. You can also visit Kuantan.
What are the main transport options in Malaysia?
Malaysia offers buses, KTM trains, domestic flights, ferries and private transfers. Learn more in Transportation in Malaysia.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Malaysia ➜
🧭 Popular travel routes from Penang in Malaysia:
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These are the most popular travel routes from Penang for visitors exploring Malaysia.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Penang to Redang Island
Traveling from Penang to Redang Island covers about 500 km. You can travel by bus + ferry or by flight via Kuala Lumpur, followed by a ferry or a limited direct flight.
- Choose a Flight to Save Time: Flying via Kuala Lumpur is the fastest way to reach Redang Island.
- Bus + Ferry Is the Cheapest: Travel via Kuala Terengganu if you’re looking for the lowest-cost option.
- Check Ferry Schedules: Ferries depart from Merang Jetty and Shahbandar Jetty and may vary by season.
- Travel in the Dry Season: March to October offers the best weather and the most reliable ferry services.
- Bring Cash: ATMs are limited on Redang Island, so carry enough Malaysian Ringgit.
- Book Early: Flights, buses and ferries can sell out during weekends and holidays.
Tip: Bus tickets, ferry tickets, flights, and private transfers from Penang to Redang Island can be searched and booked online in advance.