First time going to Bintan on the ferry which leaves from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. We went Emerald class, just to avoid queues (and we weren’t sure about VoA), but if you are patient and willing it

Went emerald class definitely worth it if travel with children as all luggage taken care of and visas while you wait in private lounge

It takes about an hour to travel from the Singapore port to Bintan Island. The Singapore side has recently been renovated so a touch more pleasant to use. It’s akin to a tiny airport before walking ..