GETTING TO
PULAU WEH DIVE RESORT

GETTING
THERE

Getting to the pristine, remote paradise of Pulau Weh is an adventure in itself. To make your trip as smooth and stress-free as possible, Pulau Weh Dive Resort offers a comprehensive transfer package that takes care of everything from the moment you land in Banda Aceh.With Kuala Lumpur and Penang being the easiest port of transit, here’s your complete step-by-step guide from either Kuala Lumpur or Penang.

Overview of the Journey:

  1. Flight: Kuala Lumpur (KUL) / Penang (PEN) ➔ Banda Aceh (BTJ)
  2. Resort-Organised Transfer: Meet & Greet at Banda Aceh Airport.
  3. Resort-Organised Transfer: Private Car to Ulee Lheue Ferry Harbour.
  4. Resort-Organised Transfer: Fast Ferry to Pulau Weh (Sabang Port).
  5. Resort-Organised Transfer: Private Car to the Resort.

Step 1: Booking Your Flight to Banda Aceh (BTJ)

Your journey begins by flying to Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport (BTJ) in Banda Aceh. You have excellent options from two major Malaysian hubs.

 

Option A: Flying from Kuala Lumpur (KUL)

  • AirAsia: This is the most frequent and popular option. They offer direct daily flights from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Banda Aceh (BTJ). The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes.
  • Super Air Jet: This Indonesian low-cost carrier also operates on this route, typically offering competitive prices. Be sure to check their schedule as frequency can vary. Flight time is similar.

Option B: Flying from Penang (PEN)

  • Firefly: This is a fantastic and often overlooked option. Firefly operates direct flights from Penang International Airport (PEN) to Banda Aceh (BTJ) on their turboprop aircraft. The flight is very short, taking approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, and can be a very convenient choice for those starting their journey in Northern Malaysia or Southern Thailand.

Pro Tip: It is highly recommended to book a flight that arrives in Banda Aceh (BTJ) before 12:00 PM (noon). This will give you ample time to clear immigration, collect your luggage, and connect with the resort’s driver for the critical afternoon ferry crossing.

Step 2: The Resort-Organised Transfer Package

To organize your transfer, please send us your flight confirmation. This allows us to have a driver ready and waiting with your ferry tickets upon your arrival

What’s Included in the Transfer Package:

  • Driver meeting you at Banda Aceh Airport (BTJ).
  • Private air-conditioned car from the airport to Ulee Lheue ferry harbour.
  • Fast ferry tickets from Banda Aceh (Ulee Lheue) to Pulau Weh (Sabang).
  • Private car transfer from Sabang ferry port directly to the resort.

 

The Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Arrival at Banda Aceh Airport (BTJ):
    * After you disembark, proceed to immigration, collect your baggage, and exit into the arrivals hall.
    * Look for a driver holding a sign with your name or “Pulau Weh Dive Resort” on it. They will be easily identifiable.
  2. Land Transfer to Ferry Harbour (approx. 45 mins – 1 hour):
    * The driver will escort you to a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the scenic drive through Banda Aceh to the Ulee Lheue ferry port.
  3. Fast Ferry to Pulau Weh (approx. 1 hour – 1 hour 15 mins):
    * Upon arrival at the port, the driver will assist you. They will have your pre-booked ferry tickets.
    * You will board the fast ferry (Kapal Cepat). The ferry is modern and has indoor seating and air conditioning.
    * Enjoy the views of the Malacca Strait during the crossing to Balohan Harbour in Sabang, Pulau Weh.
  4. Final Land Transfer to the Resort (approx. 30-45 mins):
    * As you disembark in Sabang, another resort driver will be waiting for you, again holding a sign with your name.
    * They will load your luggage into another vehicle for the final beautiful and winding drive along the coastal road of Pulau Weh, taking you directly to the gates of Pulau Weh Dive Resort.

Important Information & Tips

  • All guests are responsible for making all arrangements required for their visa applications and ensure that all travel documents including visas are in order prior to departure from their home country.
  • Ferry Schedule: The ferries have limited departures, usually 2-3 times per day. The most common departure times from Banda Aceh are around 8:00 AM or 10:00 AM & 4:30pm. This is why an early flight is crucial. Missing this ferry means a long wait in Banda Aceh or spending a night in Banda Aceh and cathing a ferry the following day.
  • On the Return Trip: The resort will coordinate your return transfer based on your flight time out of Banda Aceh (BTJ). They will ensure you leave the island with plenty of time to catch your flight.