Monday 10 September 2012

Indah Puri, Batam, Indonesia


Location
Indah Puri, Batam, Indonesia

Website
http://www.indahpuri.com

Rating 
7/10

Review
View from Clubhouse down 18th Hole

Indah Puri is a fun, enjoyable 18 hole golf course a short drive from Batam Ferry Terminal. 

For those unfamiliar with Batam it is one of the large Indonesian islands approx 40mins by ferry to the south of Singapore. If travelling via ferry from Singapore it can be reached via Harbourfront Ferry Terminal to the south west of the CBD.

When golfing at Indah Puri I generally book through the club (link on their website) they make it very easy and organise  everything for you including the ferry transfer from Singapore and transfer from the Batam terminal to the course. Once you arrive at the ferry terminal staff from the course will escort you through immigration and onto an awaiting bus.

The facilities like most courses I find in Indonesia are a little run down and have seen better days however I found them to be clean, functional and more than for most golfers needs, although I wouldn't plan on doing much shopping at the pro-shop as the range is pretty poor.

As for the course, it is a simple and open layout in a coastal location on the island. The fairways are pretty well maintained however do have a bit of cow grass growing into them which is not unusual for courses in the region. Greens tend to be on the slower side and a little grainy but are playable surfaces and do tend to help out the casual golfer. 

The clubhouse does offer some nice meals after your round and even has some in-house massage rooms located near the change rooms if you have a bit of time to kill whilst waiting for your transfer back to the ferry terminal

Best Holes

3rd - Downhill par 3 whilst it looks a relatively tame and straight forward hole off the tee, the green has some serious shape, so if you do hit the green and you are not close to the pin a Par is no guarantee!

5th - Another nice short par 3 with arguably the best view on the course which on a clear day you will be able to see the skyline of Singapore in the distance.


5th Tee Shot

17th - A reachable par 4 which entices you to cut the dogleg and hit right over a large water hazard to find the green. This golfer however would recommend laying up after losing a few in a "Tin Cup" moment trying to get one close from the tee box.

Summary

A good option for a day trip from Singapore if you are looking to get off the Island. The transfers from Harbourfront make the whole day a little easier than heading out to Bintan from Tanah Merah.

Cost
Approx $150 SGD for 18 holes and cart. Caddy tip ($20 USD) & Visa ($10 USD)

My Tips

  • The Nasi Goreng is worth a try after the round!
  • Ask the guys who collect your passport not to put a stamp in as this can save you precious pages in your passport.