Boat Quay

Boat Quay is a historic quay on the south bank of the Singapore River, a short way upstream from the river mouth. Today its row of restored shophouses holds restaurants, cafés and bars with seats by the water.

It is free to visit and is at its liveliest in the evening. This guide covers its history, what to do, how to get there and tips for your visit.

What is Boat Quay?

A quay is a landing place for boats. In the 1800s and early 1900s, Boat Quay was one of the busiest parts of the river. Small boats carried goods between ships at sea and the warehouses along the banks.

Traders, workers and merchants from many places worked along this stretch. The low shophouses you see today were their shops, stores and offices.

As the port moved elsewhere, the river became quieter. The shophouses were later restored and turned into places to eat and drink. Now the old fronts face the river, with tall office towers rising behind them.

What to see and do at Boat Quay

Boat Quay is a place to stroll, eat and watch the river. It works well as part of a longer walk along the water.

• Riverside dining: eat outdoors by the water, with views of the river and the city.
• Old shophouses: look at the colourful fronts and old details of the buildings.
• River views: watch tour boats pass by, especially in the evening.
• Public art: see the large sculptures by Fernando Botero and Salvador Dalí outside UOB Plaza.
• The skyline: the towers of the Central Business District rise right behind the quay.

How to get to Boat Quay

The nearest MRT station is Raffles Place, on the North–South Line and the East–West Line. From the station, it is a short walk to the river.

You can also walk along the river from Clarke Quay, further upstream. From Merlion Park, it is a short walk past the Fullerton building and along the river. On the way you pass Cavenagh Bridge, an old bridge that is now for people on foot only.

For more help, see our guide on how to use the MRT in Singapore.

Best time to visit Boat Quay

Evening is the most popular time. The air is cooler, the shophouses are lit up and the lights of the city reflect on the river.

Weekday lunchtimes are busy with office workers from nearby towers. Late afternoon is quieter and is a good time for photos along the river.

Boat Quay is a good place to start or end a night out by the river. Our guide to night itineraries has ideas for an evening in the city.

Tips for visiting Boat Quay

• Look at a few menus before you sit down, and check prices before you order.
• For seafood sold by weight, ask for the price of the full dish first.
• Some restaurants have staff outside inviting you in. It is fine to say no politely.
• Singapore has rules on drinking in public places late at night. Read our page on etiquette and local laws.
• Walk along the river towards Clarke Quay after your meal.

Food and things to do nearby

Boat Quay itself has many riverside restaurants. If you want to try chilli crab, read our guide to chilli crab and seafood first. For something different, the wider CBD has some of the area's highest-rated restaurants, such as Cloudstreet and Nae:um. Browse all restaurants in Marina Bay and the CBD.

After dinner, walk to the waterfront for the Marina Bay Night Walk. Across the river you can see the Asian Civilisations Museum. Further upstream, explore the riverside with our guide to Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay.

To stay nearby, look at The Fullerton Bay Hotel, The Clan Hotel Singapore or other hotels in Marina Bay and the CBD. You will find more evening ideas in Nightlife and more ideas that cost nothing in Free Things To Do.

FAQs about Boat Quay

Is Boat Quay free to visit?

Yes. Boat Quay is a public riverside area and is free to walk around. You only pay for what you eat or drink.

What is the nearest MRT station to Boat Quay?

Raffles Place MRT station is the closest. It is a short walk to the river.

Is Boat Quay the same as Clarke Quay?

No. They are separate areas on the Singapore River. Boat Quay is closer to the river mouth, and Clarke Quay is further upstream.

When is the best time to visit Boat Quay?

Evening is the most popular time, when the shophouses are lit up. Late afternoon is quieter and good for photos.