Sabang, a hidden gem of Indonesia, is located north of Sumatra. As the northernmost point of Indonesia, Sabang offers a unique blend of history, culture and breathtaking nature. Once an important port and coal station for the Dutch navy, the city has developed into a fascinating destination for visitors. The archipelago includes Weh Island and smaller islands, surrounded by the Strait of Malacca and the Indian Ocean. Sabang’s tropical rainforest climate provides lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. Divers and snorkelers will find a paradise here, thanks to the pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life. Sabang, now a free trade zone, attracts visitors with its relaxed atmosphere and historical remnants from the colonial era and World War II.
Table of contents
Timetable, Prices & Availability
Enter your travel details in the connection search to check times, current prices and ferry availability in the port of Sabang.
Ferry connections from & to Sabang
Here you see an overview of all ferry routes which currently call at the port of Sabang:
| Route | Country of origin & country of destination | Number & Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry Sabang – Aceh | IndonesiaIndonesia | 3 times a day 45 minutes |
Brief information harbour Sabang
| Country: | Indonesia |
| Language: | Indonesian |
| Currency: | Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) |
| Time zone: | Asia/Jakarta, WIB (Western Indonesian Time) |
| UNLOCODE: | IDSBG |
Addresses & Arrival
To make your journey to Sabang easier, you will find all the important addresses in the ferry port of Sabang here.
Address ferry harbour Sabang
| Street: | |
| Postcode & city: | 24411 Sabang, Pelabuhan Balohan |
| Country: | Indonesia |
| GPS: | 5.826765, 95.347207 |
Ferry terminals & other addresses
| Provider | Address |
|---|---|
| Express Bahari |
Express Bahari ferry terminal 24411 Sabang, Pelabuhan Balohan Indonesia GPS: 5.827171, 95.346994 (Latitude, Longitude) |
| Parking lot |
Parking lot at the ferry terminal 24411 Sabang, Pelabuhan Balohan Indonesia GPS: 5.827856, 95.347300 (Latitude, Longitude) |
| E-charging station |
SPLU PLN Jl. Oentoeng Surapati 23511 Kota Sabang Indonesia GPS: 5.894116, 95.319882 (Latitude, Longitude) |
Travel information
Arrival by car
The ferry port of Sabang can be reached via the road network of Pulau We Island:
- From the north: Follow the main road from Sabang southwards in the direction of Balohan.
- From the south: Ferry north on one of the island roads to Balohan.
- From the west or east: Use the island roads to get to the Balohan ferry port.
Arrival by bus & train
There are no rail connections to Pulau We. However, you can use local buses that serve the Balohan ferry port. Information on bus routes and timetables is available on site.
Arrival by plane
The nearest airport is Sultan Iskandar Muda Airport in Banda Aceh. From there, you can take a cab or a local bus to the Sabang ferry port. The ferries take around 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Map of the ferry harbour Sabang
Travel guide: Discover Sabang: a tropical paradise on the edge of Indonesia
Places of interest & excursions
There are numerous fascinating sights and excursion destinations in Sabang that will captivate every visitor. Here are some highlights:
- Gapang Beach – A picturesque beach with crystal-clear water, ideal for snorkeling and relaxing.
- Iboih Beach – Known for its breathtaking underwater worlds, perfect for diving enthusiasts.
- Sumur Tiga Beach – A quiet beach with fine white sand, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
- Zero Kilometer Monument – A significant landmark that marks the westernmost point of Indonesia.
- Sabang Hill – Offers a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding nature.
- Japanese Bunker – Historical sites from the Second World War that give an insight into the past.
- Hot Springs – Natural thermal springs known for their healing properties.
Activities
Apart from the sights, Sabang offers a variety of activities that will make your stay unforgettable:
- Diving and snorkeling – Explore the colorful underwater world around Sabang, full of corals and marine life.
- Hiking – Discover the natural beauty of Sabang on hiking trails that lead through dense jungle and to hidden beaches.
- Kayaking – Experience the coast from a new perspective and enjoy the peace and quiet on the water.
History
Sabang has a rich history characterized by its strategic location at the entrance of the Malacca Straits. It was an important base during the Second World War and has since developed into a peaceful tourist destination.
Food, drink and shopping
In Sabang, you can enjoy delicious local specialties that include fresh seafood and traditional Indonesian dishes. There are also markets and small stores selling local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Public transportation
Getting around Sabang is mainly done by minibuses, motorcycle cabs and bicycle rentals, which make it easy to explore the island.
Accommodation
Sabang offers a wide range of accommodation, from simple guesthouses to more luxurious resorts. Most are located close to the beaches and offer breathtaking views of the sea.