Where to sit on an island speedboat
You are about to board and wonder whether the seat you take changes how the crossing feels.
Sit near the middle of the boat, low down and facing forward if you are worried about motion. Choose a covered seat if you dislike spray or sun. Ask the crew whether seats are assigned, because on some boats the choice is not yours.
The sailing itself is short, about 35 to 45 minutes from Kuala Besut to Perhentian [1], so one uncomfortable seat is not the end of the trip. Our guide on what to do if you get seasick on island transfers adds a full plan.
How does each seat feel?
Speedboats lift and drop, and the movement is strongest at the ends. The table below describes the usual pattern. Your boat may differ, so ask the crew.
| Seat | Motion | Spray and sun | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front | Strongest bounce and slap | Most spray, most sun | Travellers who enjoy the ride |
| Middle | Steadier | Depends on the cover | Seasickness, children, older passengers |
| Rear | Less bounce, more engine noise | Some spray, engine fumes | Short rides, quick exit |
| Window or side | Moderate | Side spray when waves come from that side | Photographers, shade seekers |
| Open deck | Varies | Most exposure | Confident, dry-bag travellers |
The practical result is simple. If one person in your group needs the calmest place, give them the middle and let everyone else adjust.
What should you ask the crew?
Ask these before the boat leaves, at the jetty, while the crew is still loading:
- Are seats assigned, or can we sit where we like?
- Is the boat covered, and does the cover keep spray out?
- Where does the luggage go, and is it covered?
- Is there a jacket in my size, including child sizes?
- Can an older passenger sit near the entrance?
Our guide on boat boarding for older passengers has more on entry and exit. The one on luggage on island boats covers where your bags travel.
How should a family share the seats?
Start with the person who is most likely to feel unwell. Place them in the middle row, ideally near fresh air. Seat small children next to an adult, away from the open edge.
Photographers and thrill seekers can take the front or the open side, as long as they wear the jacket and hold on. This arrangement lets everyone enjoy the same boat without a compromise that nobody likes.
What about longer crossings?
On a longer route, seat choice matters more. For example, a Sabah transfer may include a van from Tawau airport of about 75 minutes and then a speedboat of about 45 to 60 minutes [2]. After a long road leg, a calm seat and a snack help.
Our jetty connection planner helps you see the whole chain and place your rest stops.
A better fit if…
A middle seat is a better fit if you are sensitive to motion, travelling with young children or parents, or carrying a camera you want to keep dry. A front or side seat may be a better fit if you enjoy movement, have a dry bag and are comfortable holding on. When in doubt, ask the crew which seat they would choose on your day.
Common questions
Which seat is best if I get seasick?
Most people find the middle of the boat, low down and facing forward, feels steadier than the front or the back. Look at the horizon and keep fresh air on your face. Seat choice helps, but it does not replace asking a pharmacist if you need medication.
Can I choose my seat on an island speedboat?
It depends on the operator. Some boats assign seats and some fill from the front. Ask the resort or agent when you book, and ask the crew on the jetty. Boarding early gives you more choice when seating is open.
Where should children and older passengers sit?
Near the middle and close to the entrance usually makes boarding easier and the ride calmer. Ask the crew to seat them away from the open edge and the bow. Keep a hand on small children and make sure they wear the jacket the crew gives.
Where is my luggage kept on the boat?
Luggage goes into a covered hold or is piled at the back, and practices differ by operator. Ask whether bags are covered and whether you can keep a small bag with you. Our guide on luggage and waterproofing has the checklist.
Sources
- FerryScanner and homeiswhereyourbagis.com (accessed 2026-10-16)
- Amazing Borneo (operator) (accessed 2026-10-16)