Trip to St. John / Kusu island

Kusu Island is one of the Southern Islands in Singapore, located about 5.6 kilometres to the south of the main island of Singapore, off the Straits of Singapore. The name means "Tortoise Island" or "Turtle Island" in Chinese; the island is also known as Peak Island or Pulau Tembakul in Malay. The word kusu also means flatulence in Tamil, one of Singapore's national languages—however, this is not related in any way to the name of the island, and is a misconception. From two tiny outcrops on a reef, the island was enlarged and transformed into an island holiday resort of 85,000 square metres.

Story passed down by both Malays and Chinese in Singapore says a magical tortoise turned itself into an island to save two shipwrecked sailors - a Malay and a Chinese.

Also located on Kusu island is the popular Chinese temple - Da Bo Gong 大伯公 or Tua Pek Kong (Grand Uncle). Built in 1923 by a wealthy businessman, the temple houses two main deities - the Da Bo Gong and Guan Yin 观音 (Goddess of Mercy). The former is highly regarded as having the power to confer prosperity, cure diseases, calm the sea and avert danger, while Guan Yin is known as the 'giver of sons'.

This island is popular for its lagoons, pristine beaches and tranquil settings. Visitors are often here to see the wishing well and Tortoise Sanctuary. Afternoon picnics are also very popular.

You are advised to bring bottled water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, umbrella and some snacks or sandwiches as you please, as there will be no food available on board the vessel or on the island.

It is popular for its lagoons, pristine beaches and tranquil settings. Visits are often made by ferry from the nearby Marina South Pier to see the wishing well and Tortoise Sanctuary.

Here is schedule for Ferry.We will depart around 9:00 a.m. From Marina Bay Pier and will be back by 4:30 p.m. Cruise.

Ticket price is 18 dollars for adults.