Boat Quay

About

Boat Quay, a river embankment on the Singapore River, is one of the oldest and most historical areas in the Central Region. From early times, and for more than 150 years, warehouses thriving with economic activity, lined the banks of North and South Boat Quay. Many of these original buildings have been preserved, and are now places of entertainment. Boat Quay is a historical quay in Singapore which is situated upstream from the mouth of the Singapore River on its southern bank. Boat Quay serves as one of the most popular places for a waterside drink or nibble in Singapore, with its wide range of colourful and charismatic bars and alfresco restaurants. The compact area is sandwiched in between Clarke Quay in the north and Marina Bay in the south (both walkable). 

While presenting one of the favourite sundowner spots in the city today, the famous quay has a rich history, deeply engraved into the foundations of the county; Boat Quay actually formed part of the busiest port in Singapore, managing the supply of imports and exports that enabled Singapore to become a developed nation. The main Boat Quay stretch comprises a pedestrianised lane that loops its way around the curve of the Singapore River, spilling out into Marina Bay and then eventually the Singapore Straits. Most of the bars and restaurants here are set in the iconic old multi-coloured houses, with the lane starting at Elgin Bridge and ending near the Fullerton Hotel.  As well as eating and drinking, Boat Quay is a real photographer’s playground. The coloured houses ooze personality, while the reflections at night across the water are equally as impressive. For the best vantage point head to Elgin Bridge – it’s here where you’ll be able to capture the gleaming CBD skyline towering over the pretty waterside houses in all their glory. 

Tips

• during the day, there is not a lot of shade at these places, so these are better at the end of the day and into the evening when the sun is down and the place is about 10 degrees cooler.
• it is well worth the time to do a river cruise and learn the history of this and other areas along the river.
• Good pubs around the river area at night the place just lights up with good offers on drinks and quick service.
• There are many restaurants for tourists and behind there are many tall buildings of financial institutions. Boat Quay is the place where the ancient and the modern Singapore meet.
  

Timings