RSSThe Singapore River is the lifeline of the country, transforming the ancient fishing village into an international trading hub and tourist attraction. The River is home to popular landmarks such as Merlion Park, Parliament House and Asian Civilizations Museum. Boat Quay and Clarke Quay along the river are famous for their nightlife and various attractions. The Quays are a must-see for all visitors to Singapore.
Boat Quay
Over 150 years ago, the Singapore River was a rough trading port. Sun-tanned coolies and swaylos or water-hands carried large sacks of rice on their shoulders. Wooden gangplanks led the way to the boats as produce and other goods were loaded and unloaded. When Raffles secured the title of free port for Singapore, the same gangplanks of Boat Quay started teeming with immigrants from neighboring countries. By 1860 almost three quarters of all shipping was done at Boat Quay. Shops and houses erected along the quay on the south side of the river varied in height with the highest sign belonging to the wealthiest trader. Nowadays Boat Quay is still bustling and is the best place in Singapore to enjoy alfresco dining, lively bars and a good mix of classy restaurants.
Clarke Quay
Clarke Quay is named after Sir Andrew Clarke, the second governor of Singapore, and it is home to five blocks of restore warehouses that house hip nightclubs, cafes and a variety of shopping outlets. Second-hand and antique shops line the riverside along with floating Chinese junks that have been refurbished into pubs and restaurants. In the evening the quay side comes alive with the sounds of rock, blues and classic tunes from the 60s. Once upon a time Clarke Quay had been a commercial center and the warehouses had been storage units for the goods unloaded from visiting boats. Hoo Ah Kay, an early immigrant from China, owned Whampoa’s Ice House at the entrance to Clarke Quay. Kay imported ice from Boston in the mid-1800s when such facilities were not available in Singapore. Clarke Quay is a hive of activity with the Sunday Flea Market and the G-Max Reverse Bungy providing diverse activities for visitors.
Robertson Quay
Robertson Quay is the undiscovered gem of the Singapore River trail. Robertson Quay is eclectic and laid-back compared to the bright lights and loud music of the other two quays. It is easily accessible by water taxi from both quays. International restaurants, art houses, cafes, wine bars and high class condos make up the lifestyle of Robertson Quay. The converted warehouses, jetties and offices of the quay had once been used by the traders and merchants of the river. Nowadays these structures are a string of hotels that provide excellent views of the river. During the daytime, the quay is ideal for walks along the promenades, while at night the warehouses become hip nightclubs with their own brand of sophistication.
