Private or shared boat: break-even group size
Your friends are choosing between a private boat and shared seats.
A private boat beats shared seats when your group is larger than the private quote divided by one shared fare. For a group of six on a route with a shared fare of RM35 one way, the private quote has to come in under RM210 one way to win [1]. The rule is the same for any route.
For the unit side of boat pricing, see island hopping costs per person versus per boat. The island trip cost calculator can hold your totals.
What is the break-even rule?
Call the private quote Q for the whole boat, and the shared fare S for one person on the same journey.
- Break-even group size is Q divided by S.
- If your group is larger than that, the private boat is cheaper.
- If your group is smaller, the shared seats are cheaper.
Use the same direction and the same stops in both. Add any park fee or jetty fee to both sides, since it cancels out.
What ceiling must a private quote stay under?
A private quote only wins if it stays below the shared total for your group. Using the reported Perhentian fare of RM35 one way per person [1], the ceilings are as follows.
| Group size | Shared total one way [1] | A private quote must stay under |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | RM70 | RM70 |
| 3 | RM105 | RM105 |
| 4 | RM140 | RM140 |
| 6 | RM210 | RM210 |
| 8 | RM280 | RM280 |
The fare is a blog figure with an unknown date, so replace RM35 with the current price before you rely on this. The method does not change.
What are the reasons beyond money?
Break-even is not the whole story. Weigh these as well.
- Timing: shared boats follow a timetable, and the earliest and last Kuala Besut speedboats are reported at about 07:00 to 08:00 and 17:00 to 17:30 [2]. A private boat may leave outside those times if the operator agrees.
- Luggage: a private boat can carry more gear.
- Comfort: a small private boat may suit those who dislike a crowded deck.
- Stops: a private boat can follow your plan.
Our guides on shared boat seating and sea comfort and late departure and private boat requests cover two of these.
What should you check in a private quote?
A cheaper private quote is not comparable if it leaves something out. Ask in writing.
- How many people may the boat carry?
- Is fuel, a captain and a life jacket for each person included?
- Is the return boat included, and at what time?
- What is the rule if the weather stops the boat?
Our note on private versus shared boat transfers lists the full set.
A better fit if…
Shared seats may suit you if your group is two or three and the timetable fits. A private boat may suit you better if you are five or more, carry a lot of gear or need a time the shared boats do not run. For families, see private boat for a family: when it is worth it.
Common questions
How do I find the break-even group size?
Divide the private boat quote by one shared fare for the same journey. The answer is the group size at which the two cost the same. A larger group favours the private boat, and a smaller one favours the shared seats.
Is a private boat always dearer for a small group?
Shared seats are cheaper for two or three people unless the private quote is low. Check the numbers with your own quote. Do not rule out a private boat if you need a time the shared service does not run.
What else should I weigh besides price?
Luggage, timing, comfort and the number of stops. A private boat can leave when you are ready and carry more gear, while a shared boat follows a timetable. Ask what the private quote includes.
Are the shared fares on this page current?
No. The RM35 one-way figure is a blog number with an unknown date. Ask the operator for the current shared fare and a written private quote for your date.
Sources
- homeiswhereyourbagis.com (blog) (accessed 2026-10-16)
- FerryScanner (accessed 2026-10-16)