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Yup, if you are in a tight budget, going to Singapore by Batam most probably is be the cheapest way. First of all, instead of paying fiscal tax of 1 mill, you only have to pay 500 thousand rups. Second, if you're lucky, ticket to Batam supposedly is cheaper than ticket to Singapore. Third, less airport tax to pay (30,000 instead of 100,000 for international flights). But you would most likely spend more time to get there, so unless you have much time to spare, don't recommend to go this path.
When you've reached the Batam airport, Hang Nadim, after you collect your luggage, go straight to the taxi counter. Tell them you need to go to Singapore by sea and ask to be transfered to the harbour (they have several harbours, I went to Batam Centre). The fare was 70 thousand (December 2005), flat fare, pay as you exit from the taxi.
Inside the harbour, go right from the door and find the ferry counters, find a ferry that has the closest departure time, spare 30 minutes just to be safe. The fare would be S$ 17 for one way & S$ 18 for round trip (ridiculous price). Don't worry, you can pay in rupiah also. After you collect your ticket, find the fiscal tax counter at the left side of the front door. Pay the 500 thousand sea fiscal tax. Just show all your passport & ticket. If you have a luggage, register them to the luggage counter at the right side of the tax counter. Make sure they have the right ferry. If you want, you can just take your luggage with you, no limit of amount of weight of the things you bring inside the ferry cabin.
After taking care of your luggage, go to the 2nd floor, check in at the departure point. You & your belongings will be security scanned. Go straight down to the harbour and wait for your ferry to arrive. Be aware for the announcement from the information counter and ask the people there about your ferry. Just don't be afraid to ask, or else you will miss you ferry and have to buy a new ticket. Once your ferry arrives, get in and enjoy the ride. The journey took about an hour or so. You will arrive in Harbour Front, get through the custom and enjoy Singapore!
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