Lake Toba is not only the largest volcanic lake in the world but also home to Samosir Island — a cultural heartland of the Batak people and the main tourist hub for most tourists. Accessing this island gem involves a scenic ride with a ferry at Lake Toba across the lake. Your stay at Lake Toba can’t start any better.
Note: Schedules for the ferry at Lake Toba can change any time. It is best to contact your driver or accommodation at Lake Toba for the latest info. If you have updated information, please share with us so we can update this article. Get in touch
Where the Journey Begins: Parapat or Tigaras
Parapat is the main gateway town to Lake Toba and the starting point for ferry journeys to Samosir Island. Located about 4 hours from Medan by car or bus, Parapat sits on the eastern shore of the lake and is easily accessible via the new Trans-Sumatran Highway. The town has two main ports for the ferry at Lake Toba: Tiga Raja Port for passenger ferries and Ajibata Port for vehicles and cargo. Parapat itself offers basic accommodations, restaurants, and shops — making it a convenient place to rest, grab a bite, or stock up before crossing the lake.
| Parapat: Tiga Raja Port
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Parapat: Ajibata Port
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Tigaras car ferry
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Passenger Ferry from Parapat
Tiga Raja Port to Tuk Tuk
For most travelers, the passenger ferry is the go-to option.
- Departure Point: Tiga Raja Port in Parapat
- Destination: Tuk Tuk on Samosir Island
- Schedule: Ferries depart every hour on the half-hour from 8:30am – 7pm
- Duration: Approximately 45 minutes
- Fare: Around IDR 25,000 per person. Can only be purchased on the ferry. No advance sales.
These ferries often drop passengers directly at their lakeside accommodations in Tuk Tuk. Inform the crew of your hotel name, and they’ll aim to get you as close as possible.
Tuktuk to Tiga Raja Port
For the return trip you need arrange the ferry pickup with your accommodation.
The ferries also depart every hour starting at 6:30am on the North side of Tuktuk peninsula and around 6:45am at the South side of the peninsula.
Schedule
| Parapat – Tuk Tuk | Tuk Tuk – Parapat |
|---|---|
| 08:30 h | 06:30 h |
| 09:30 h | 07:30 h |
| 10:30 h | 08:30 h |
| 11:30 h | 09:30 h |
| 12:30 h | 10:30 h |
| 13:30 h | 11:30 h |
| 14:30 h | 12:30 h |
| 15:30 h | 13:30 h |
| 16:30 h | 14:30 h |
| 17:30 h | 15:30 h |
| 19:00 h | 16:30 h |
Updated: May 2025
Car Ferry from Parapat
Ajibata Port (Parapat) to Tomok or Ambarita
If you’re traveling with a vehicle or arrive after 7pm, the car ferry is your best bet.
- Departure Point: Ajibata Port in Parapat
- Destinations: Tomok or Ambarita on Samosir Island.
- Companies: There are two car ferries from Parapat (Ajibata) to the Ambarita: KMP. Ihan Batak and KMP. Pora Pora. The ferry KM Tao Toba goes from Parapat (Ajibata) to Tomok.
- Schedule: Ferries operate approximately five times daily, with the last departure around 9:00 PM.
- Duration: About 1 hour
- Fare: Prices vary based on vehicle size and class:
- Economy: IDR 17,000–35,000
- VIP: IDR 28,000–37,000
Note: Tomok and Ambarita are approximately a 10–15 minute drive from Tuk Tuk. Local transport options like becak (motorcycle taxis) are available at the ports. However, it is best to arrange a pickup from the harbour with your accommodation.
Schedule
KM Tao Toba
Check the latest info on their instagram profile.
KMP. Ihan Batak and KMP. Pora Pora
Please check with your accommodation at Lake Toba for the latest schedule.
| Ajibata – Ambarita | Ambarita – Ajibata |
|---|---|
| 07:30 | 07:30 |
| 09:00 | 09:00 |
| 10:30 | 10:30 |
| 12:00 | 12:00 |
| 13:30 | 13:30 |
| 15:00 | 15:00 |
| 16:30 | 16:30 |
| 18:00 | 18:00 |
| 20:00 | 20:00 |
| 21:15 | 21:15 |
Car Ferry from Tigaras to Simanindo
If you come from Bukit Lawang or Berastagi AND have your own vehicle or a private driver who will also accompany you onto Smaosir Island, you can also opt for this ferry route.
- Departure Point: Tigaras between Berastagi and Parapat
- Destinations: Simanindo on the North shore on Samosir Island
- Companies: The KMP Sumut operates between Tigaras and Simanindo.
- Schedule: Ferries operate roughly every 1-2h from 7 am to 9pm. Latesr info can be found here.
- Duration: About 1 hour
- Fare: Prices vary based on vehicle size between IDR 10,000–800,000
Tips for a Smooth Ferry Experience
- Plan Ahead: Ferry schedules can vary, especially during peak seasons or holidays. It’s advisable to check the latest timings in advance.
- Cash is King: Ferry fares are typically paid in cash. Ensure you have small denominations of Indonesian Rupiah.
- Accommodation Transfers: Many hotels in Tuk Tuk offer pick-up services from the ferry drop-off points outside Tuktuk. Coordinate with your accommodation beforehand.
- Late Arrivals: If you arrive in Parapat after the last passenger ferry, the car ferry from Ajibata to Tomok operates later into the evening, providing an alternative route to Samosir Island.
Embarking on a ferry across Lake Toba is more than just a mode of transport—it’s an introduction to the serene beauty and rich culture that awaits on Samosir Island. Safe travels!
