Singapore Boat Dock

Introduction

Singapore Boat Quay, located on the south bank of the upstream portion of the Singapore River, is a place of historical importance dating back to the 1860s. Although Boat Quay no longer plays any role in waterborne commerce, the old structures have been carefully preserved. Today, this place offers abundant entertainment facilities through various restaurants and bars.

What is the history of Singapore Boat Quay?

Although it may put you off when we talk about history, you cannot deny the fact that knowing the past of a place helps us to better understand it and how it has evolved into what it is today.

Since 1819, the Singapore River was a busy place that was active with various economic and commercial activities. The south bank of this river, where most of these activities occurred, was (and still is) called Boat Quay.

During the 1820s, the Boat Quay area which was swampy in nature was rebuilt with the land from a small hill where the then Commercial Plaza stood. The place in those days was occupied by merchants from the neighborhood. Now this place is home to Raffles Place.

As designated by Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore, the construction of Singapore Boat Quay was completed in 1842. Most Chinese workers and merchants in large numbers made this place their home. Boat Quay flourished at a rapid rate. The volume of trade that transpired at the Singapore ship wharf even exceeded that of the North Bank, where merchants from Europe had their offices.

In those days, Boat Quay was the place where the most important commercial offices in Singapore were located. At busy times, the bumboats had a hard time getting space at Boat Quay. Coolies and barges carried goods from ships while merchants were busy buying and selling various items like tin, rubber, steel, coffee, rice and some other manufactured goods.

However, Singapore Boat Quay’s fortunes sank during the 1960s as the introduction of mechanization and computer systems took over their leading role in the waterborne trade.

With the technology-driven opening of Pasir Panjang in September 1983, river trade at Boat Quay took a beating. From there, it was a downhill thing. However, the Urban Redevelopment Authority prepared a plan in 1986 to preserve Boat Quay.

In July 1989, the shophouses (with two and three floors) of Singapore Boat Quay were preserved, as well as its upper floors that had a unique cantilever. These trades became businesses based on certain new ideas. During the 1990s, the shophouses and godowns were restored. These are now places of busy restaurants, shops and bars, an indispensable part of Singapore’s nightlife.

Boat Quay and its role in Singapore’s nightlife

The restaurants, shops and bars of Singapore Boat Quay offer abundant entertainment facilities for the tourists who come here. You will welcome this escape from the mundane life once you enter the Boat Quay area. The natural splendor of this place which is surrounded by a large area of ​​aquamarine is truly astounding to say the least.

Boat Quay is the ideal setting for an exciting but uncomplicated night out. If you want to get a taste of Singapore’s nightlife, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit Boat Quay. Wondering what to do once you’ve entered the Boat Quay area? Well, there is no need to worry and smoke. We have a few options to help you make the most of your night:

you can relax in harry’s bar

·Enjoy a drink and a relaxed chat with your friends in the black penny

Dance the blues on Jazz in Southbridge

Take a sip of craft beers at archipelago Brewery, Prayed

Make yourself at home by choosing to visit the homey atmosphere of the aptly named local club

It goes without saying that Singapore’s nightlife has something for everyone. You will surely be spoiled for choice on what to do and where to go on your night out in this place.

So make your visit to Singapore Boat Quay count. I wish you have a good time at Boat Quay!