Fancy a short, idyllic getaway after a long week’s worth of work or study? Seek a different kind of adventure from the normal dining experience in Singapore? Well, calm down, because Smith Marine Kelong is quite literally, a great catch!
Singapore’s Floating Kelong Restaurant
Originally an aquaculture farm (a place where farmers cultivate aquatic organisms such as fish) back in 2006, or kelong in local context, Smith Marine Kelong has evolved into one of the most unique places to dine at for delectable seafood!
Although Smith Marine is not Singapore’s first kelong, it remains in our unique history because it has adapted according to shifting times and has emerged as Singapore’s first one-of-a-kind kelong restaurant.
For those who don’t know, “kelong” is a Malay word describing a form of offshore platform built with wood (imagine a house on long sticks in the sea). Built by fishermen for fishing purposes, only a handful remain in Singapore due to urbanisation (yet another reason to visit this place!).
Food at Smith Marine Kelong
Check out the amazing “zi-char” style dishes of the restaurant! My favorite is their signature Chilli Crab with Man Tou!
You may call, SMS, or Whatsapp them for their menu. There is also no tax or service charge! Say what?!
Situated next to Pulau Ubin, this modern kelong has a solid base structure, a tiled floor and a roof over your head while you take in the scenes. It looks really modernised, like a chalet on water. The place is spacious and clean, so not to worry, you won’t be walking on cramped rickety wooden kelongs from the olden days! Oh yes, don’t worry about a “fish” smell around the kelong because the farms are sheltered off.
Fish at Smith Marine Kelong
Did I mention that you can fish for your own food? You heard me right, because yes you can!
As a fun pre-meal activity, diners can try their hands in the ‘sure-catch’ pond with fishing rods and baits provided. The pond is filled with Snapper and Sea Bass. Even the most amateur fishers can catch something (trust me). It’s a great experience for first-timers too!
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The fish you catch can be given to the chef to be cooked to your liking in the restaurant ($35.00). You can also take them home at ($15.00). This isn’t a catch-and-release fishing pond so you’ll have to choose one option.
What to do at Smith Marine Kelong
Aside from fishing, visitors can take a leisurely stroll on the decks of the kelong to enjoy the cool breeze, see fish being farmed, or take some amazing pictures. Bear in mind that some parts of the farm are not accessible to the public.
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That’s not all! You may even enjoy a game of pool, lay in a hammock or simply bask on the deck and witness the amazing sunset.
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Tips
Since they are in the middle of the sea, the weather will be hot. However, visitors can sit by the waiting area to enjoy the cool breeze and dip your feet into the cool waters.
Be wary of inclement weather. Your trip is best enjoyed if there is no rain. So, make sure you check the weather forecast beforehand!
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Getting there
To get to Smith Marine Kelong, you will have to book a 2-way ferry at S$100 which can carry up to 12 pax. So it is best to get more of your friends or family to come along. (It doesn’t link to anywhere else, so just a simple to-and-fro journey)
Departure is at Changi Point Ferry Terminal at Changi Village. Smith Marine Kelong will assist you to book the 15-20 minutes ferry ride. Time of departure is according to your preference.
Reservation is required. Visit their website for more information.
Don’t miss out on this interesting dining experience!
Opening Hours: 10am – 7pm
Contact: 9792 7609
(featured image credit: huangrenzhi)
also read: The Prettiest And Most Elaborate Customised Cakes We Have Ever Seen In Singapore!
