Biometric passport clearance, more dining options for travellers at new HarbourFront terminal

The opening of the new Singapore Cruise Centre on July 7, 2026, marks a significant transformation in how travelers embark on ferries and cruises from Singapore. This state-of-the-art terminal, located at 5 HarbourFront Avenue, replaces the long-standing international ferry terminal at HarbourFront Centre, which has served the city-state for nearly three decades. Designed to enhance efficiency and convenience, the new center introduces a range of modern facilities inspired by airport infrastructure, including self-service check-in kiosks, automated boarding gates, and biometric immigration clearance systems. These upgrades aim to streamline the travel experience for both local and international passengers.

The transition from the old terminal to the new one will occur in two phases, beginning with the relocation of ferry operators. Batam Fast Ferry will be the first to operate from the new terminal, commencing its services on July 7. By July 15, the remaining ferry companies—Horizon Fast Ferry, Majestic Fast Ferry, Sindo Ferry, and Indo Falcon Shipping & Travel—as well as international cruise operations, will relocate their services to the new location. Importantly, all ferry routes, destinations, and schedules remain unchanged, ensuring continuity for travelers. The berths for ferries and cruises will also stay in their current positions, minimizing disruption to established routines.

The new terminal is strategically situated approximately 70 meters away from the existing HarbourFront Centre, nestled between the Reef at King's Dock condominium and HarbourFront Tower 2. Its design features a distinctive red terracotta building, offering a striking visual contrast against the surrounding urban landscape. Access to the terminal is facilitated through HarbourFront MRT Station Exit B, with sheltered walkways linking it to the station and VivoCity. Given the limited parking availability, the Singapore Cruise Centre encourages the use of public transportation, emphasizing sustainability and ease of access.

Inside the terminal, the check-in process mirrors that of an airport, with 25 self-service kiosks allowing passengers to print boarding passes and baggage tags. This shift from the previous model, where online ticket buyers had to collect their boarding passes at ferry operator counters, represents a major improvement in convenience. Baggage drop-off is also centralized on the same floor, streamlining the entire process. For those requiring assistance, each ferry operator maintains a service counter, ensuring support for individuals with specific needs. Additionally, a designated area accommodates passengers with oversized items such as bicycles, reflecting the terminal’s commitment to inclusivity.

The second floor of the terminal serves as the immigration checkpoint, featuring 14 automated clearance lanes, including eight special assistance lanes designed for families with young children, seniors, wheelchair users, and pregnant passengers. A notable innovation is the integration of biometric technology, enabling Singapore citizens and permanent residents to clear immigration without presenting a passport. This system, managed by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, uses facial recognition to verify travelers efficiently. The terminal also houses a VIP lounge capable of accommodating up to 70 passengers, enhancing comfort for frequent travelers.

In terms of amenities, the new terminal offers a variety of food and beverage options, including Old Chang Kee, 7-Eleven, and Subway, catering to diverse tastes. The inclusion of nursing rooms, prayer rooms, wheelchair lifts, and electric vehicle charging points underscores the terminal’s focus on accessibility and modernity. On arrival, passengers will encounter a more spacious and contemporary environment, with expanded facilities and improved layouts. As the redevelopment of HarbourFront Centre continues, the closure of the mall from July 27 onward signals a broader urban renewal initiative, transforming the area into a mixed-use space with commercial, residential, and recreational elements.