The Bum Boat

The River 

Cruising along Singapore River with the Bum Boat Ride always brings one’s memory to the past and a story about the contribution of the river to the success of Singapore today. The ride will show you some of the city’s landmarks, the current activities along the river, modern Architecture with a touch of prehistoric era, and other interesting places. 

According to Raffles' Town Plan of 1822, the south bank of the river was allocated for the commercial and finance sector, while the Civic and Government Sector on the north bank which is where most of the Colonial Buildings were built.

From an ancient fishing village occupied by the “Orang Laut” (Sea-Gypsies) to the arrival of early immigrants and Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles in 1819 to establish a trading post for the British East India Company, the river was always busy with trading activities. The first quay, Boat Quay today was built in 1823, the area along the river became industrialized with godowns/warehouses and shop houses were built almost everywhere. Some of these are preserved as you may see today. 

Today, the quayside is transformed into a vibrant nightspot with pubs and restaurants which were converted from the old shophouses.

The Bum Boat 

The bum boat or “Sampan” a type of row-boat operated by Indians in the past as a means of transportation across the river, before the construction of bridges.

The design was originated from Europe in the 1600s. instead of the traditional European design which consists of a sail, the steering mechanism was replaced by  oars or a long pole by the locals. In addition, the Ma Zu's (the Chinese goddess who protects sea-men) eyes   were also painted on the front of the boat. This practice was based on the traditional beliefs that the boat would be guided by Ma Zu, and passengers on board will be able to get to their destination safely.

The bum boat will take you on a journey along the river to experience the modern cityscape of Singapore, and fragments of the past.