Singapore Duck Tour

If you’re looking for a way to explore Singapore that’s both entertaining and practical, a Duck Tour might just be the perfect fit. This 1-hour hybrid tour takes you on a journey through the city’s bustling streets and scenic waterways, offering an unusual perspective that combines land and water sightseeing.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the amphibious vehicle itself — a vintage, Vietnam War-era craft, refurbished for tourism — adds a sense of adventure. Second, the audio commentary provides insights into Singapore’s iconic landmarks, making it educational as well. Lastly, the water splash into Marina Bay is genuinely exciting, a highlight for many travelers.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that some guests have noted the guide’s English may be hard to understand, which can impact the overall experience. Also, at $39.12 per person, it’s a reasonable price for a quick, fun overview of the city, especially considering the photos and memories you’ll gather.

This tour suits first-time visitors, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed, engaging way to see Singapore without much walking or fuss. It’s especially good if you’re after that blend of city highlights and water views in a short time frame.

Key Points

• Unique amphibious experience combines land and water sightseeing in one hour
• Affordable price with great value considering the iconic sights covered
• Knowledgeable guides (though some reviews mention language barriers)
• Excellent photo opportunities, especially from the water
• Short duration makes it ideal for a quick city overview
• Limited flexibility due to non-refundable policy and fixed schedule

Exploring Singapore in a Different Way

We all know Singapore’s skyline and landmarks are impressive, but sometimes seeing them from a different angle really adds to the experience. The Singapore Duck Tour stands out because it offers a unique combination of city and river views in a short time, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want a quick, yet rounded introduction.

The tour starts at Suntec City Mall, a central and accessible location. The vintage amphibious vehicle—once a Vietnam War military craft—has been beautifully refurbished, giving it both historical charm and modern comfort. The fact that it’s an award-winning experience speaks to its popularity and well-organized nature.

Land Tour Highlights

Driving through the Civic District, the tour passes some of Singapore’s most recognizable landmarks, such as the Fountain of Wealth, noted for being the largest fountain in the world in the 1990s. You’ll also see the Singapore Cricket Club, the Singapore Flyer (one of the largest observation wheels globally at 540 feet), and the National Gallery where the Japanese surrendered during WWII.

Traveling on this route allows you to appreciate Singapore’s blend of modernity and history without the need to walk long distances. The audio commentary offers details about each site, which many reviewers find helpful, although some mention that noise levels on the vehicle can be a little high, making it harder to catch everything.

Water Splash and River Cruise

The real thrill begins when the vehicle splashes into Marina Bay — a moment many find exciting and memorable. Cruising the Singapore River, you get a stunning view of the Merlion, the city’s iconic symbol, and the Marina Bay Sands resort. From the water, landmarks like the Helix Bridge and the Esplanade Theatres are best appreciated, and you’ll be glad you took this route instead of just walking.

Guests often praise the ability to take photos from the water, which offers a completely different perspective than land-based views. Some reviewers specifically loved the chance to see the Merlion from the water, as it’s a rare photo opportunity away from crowds.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Do

Starting Point: The adventure begins at the BIG BUS & DUCK Tourist Hub in Suntec City. This central location makes it easy for most travelers to join in without extra hassle.

Stop 1: Singapore Flyer
You’ll pass by one of the world’s tallest observation wheels. The impressive height (165 meters) makes it a striking feature on Singapore’s skyline. Many travelers find it fun to see the giant wheel up close, and some even take photos from the vehicle that include the Flyer in the background.

Stop 2: Gardens by the Bay
Cruising past the Supertree Grove, you’ll get a quick glimpse of Singapore’s innovative garden architecture. The drone-like structures are as photogenic as they are iconic, and this quick pass provides a good photo op.

Stop 3: Helix Bridge
This DNA-inspired pedestrian bridge is a favorite for its unique design, and passing underneath it adds a modern touch to the tour.

Stop 4: Esplanade Theatres
Known as “The Durian” because of its spiky exterior, this performing arts venue is a Singapore landmark and makes for an interesting photo opportunity.

Stop 5: The Merlion
The highlight for many, the Merlion statue is best viewed from the water. Tourists often say it’s the best way to avoid the crowds and get a memorable shot.

Stop 6: Historical Sites
The tour also passes by World War II landmarks like the steps of the National Gallery and the Civilian War Memorial, providing a quick educational touch.

Final Stop: Fountain of Wealth
The world’s largest fountain in the 1990s, it’s said that walking around it three times brings good luck. Many guests enjoy the lighthearted superstition and snap photos at this spot.

Return: The tour wraps up back at the starting point, completing a full circle of Singapore’s highlights.

What to Expect During the Tour

The 1-hour duration is perfect for those with limited time or who prefer a laid-back experience. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience, but expect some hustle and bustle during busy periods.

Timing: Tours run hourly from 10 am to 6 pm, with slight variations on special occasions like Chinese New Year (early closure at 4 pm on Jan 28, 2025). Most travelers book about 2 weeks in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Transportation: The vintage amphibious vehicle offers a nostalgic ride with modern safety and comfort features. Expect a bumpy but fun ride, especially on land, so those sensitive to rough terrains should consider this.

Guides and Commentary: The guides are generally friendly and knowledgeable. Reviewers mention that some guides, like Edna and Linda, make the experience engaging with their sense of humor and local insights. However, a few note that English comprehension could be better, which might affect the clarity of the stories.

Water experience: The splash into Marina Bay is the most exciting part for kids and adults alike. Many reviews describe it as “so much fun,” and some mention a family of otters coming alongside, adding a whimsical touch.

The Value of the Singapore Duck Tour

At $39.12 per person, the tour offers a fair price for a snapshot of Singapore’s main sights, especially considering the photo opportunities and entertainment value. It’s a quick overview rather than an in-depth exploration, but for first-timers or those wanting a different angle on popular spots, it hits the mark.

Many guests comment on the well-organized nature of the tour, from check-in to the ride itself. The audio commentary is a bonus, providing context that enhances sightseeing. The chance to see landmarks like the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands from both perspectives**—land and water—adds a layer of richness you won’t get from just walking around.

Some reviewers have pointed out that the duration might feel a bit short—about 45 minutes instead of an hour—but overall, most find the experience engaging and worth the price. The photo opportunities and the thrill of cruising into the water tend to be the highlights.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors to Singapore wanting a quick overview. It’s also great for families with kids, given its fun, interactive format and short duration. The water splash appeals to those looking for a memorable, lively experience.

If you’re not a fan of guided tours, or prefer more detailed historical narratives, this might feel a little superficial. However, for easy-going travelers seeking a mix of sightseeing and fun, it delivers plenty of value.

Those concerned about guide clarity (due to language issues) should keep that in mind, though most find the guides friendly and informative enough to enjoy the ride.

Final Thoughts: Is the Singapore Duck Tour Worth It?

This tour offers a lighthearted, practical way to cover Singapore’s main sights in just an hour. It’s perfect for travelers who want a bit of adventure without committing to longer tours or extensive walking. The amphibious vehicle introduces a nostalgic element, and the water splash is genuinely a fun highlight.

While it isn’t a deep dive into Singapore’s culture or history, it hits all the major landmarks and offers excellent photo opportunities, particularly from the water. The organized nature and friendly guides make it a hassle-free experience, and the price provides good value considering the scenic views and entertainment involved.

This tour is especially suitable for families, first-time visitors, or those on a tight schedule. If you’re after a unique, enjoyable way to see Singapore with a bit of excitement, it’s a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, with most experiences being around 45 minutes to an hour.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Suntec City Mall, specifically at the BIG BUS & DUCK Tourist Hub, and returns to the same location.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that kids find the amphibious ride fun, especially the splash into the water. Some say it’s perfect for children aged 5-10.

Are guides easy to understand?
Most guests find guides friendly and knowledgeable, but a few mention that the English may be difficult to understand, which could impact the experience.

What landmarks will I see on the tour?
Expect to see the Singapore Flyer, Gardens by the Bay, Helix Bridge, Esplanade, Merlion, WWII landmarks, and waterfront views of Marina Bay Sands.

What is included in the price?
The ticket includes the Singapore Duck Tour and all taxes. Food, drinks, and hotel transfers are not included.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be altered once booked.

Is the tour accessible near public transportation?
Yes, the starting point is near public transit options at Suntec City, making it convenient to reach.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are advisable. Since part of the ride involves water, bring a camera and perhaps a light raincoat if rain is forecasted.

Is there any special advice for booking?
Most travelers book about 17 days in advance, and early booking is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

To sum it up, the Singapore Duck Tour offers a fun, practical, and visually stunning way to see Singapore’s highlights in a compact timeframe. It combines the nostalgia of a vintage amphibious vehicle with modern city sights and water views, making it a memorable addition to any travel itinerary. Suitable for families, first-timers, or anyone craving a different perspective, it’s a lively, engaging experience that balances entertainment with sightseeing perfectly.