The Singapore Flyer

Why is the Singapore Flyer incredible? What is so magnificent about it? At a stunning 165 meters tall, it is the largest observation wheel in the world (30 meters taller than the London Eye), costing a hefty 200 over million dollars to construct. Don’t we all feel nice to be able to try out something to be considered world best?

Every since the launch of the Singapore Flyer on 1st March 2008, I had long been contemplating whether I should spend the money for a trip up the Flyer. It was when my wife argued that I should treat it as an experience for the reason that it is a national landmark destined to be one of the biggest attractions in Singapore. Just like you would want to go up the top of Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Empire State Building in New York and the London Eye in London.

Well, that was an undeniably good argument I must say and I couldn’t believe I bought into that!!! She succeeded in getting a free trip up the Giant Ferris Wheel together with our 2 year old son.

What caught my eyes when we were there at the Singapore Flyer was the sheer size. I know what it’s like to be riding on those Ferris Wheels you could find in the amusement park. Now, those were “child’s play” when I saw the Mega Singapore Flyer. This massive wheel could reach 42 storeys high at 541 ft above ground.

We were being directed to one of the 28 air-conditioned observation cabins covered with full length UV protected glass. “Papa…drum” my son called them drums…what a good imagination, I accept that. Some called them observation capsules if you like.

The Singapore Flyer doesn’t stop spinning for boarding; you literally have to step your way into the observation cabin while it is still moving. For a moment, I thought that was quite thrilling. There is a huge net beneath the boarding area to catch those that miss their steps…so not to worry.

Did I just freak you out there? Oh come on…the speed at which the wheel rotates is so slow and steady that boarding the Singapore Flyer is really a breeze. However, I cannot vouch for young kids or old folks who have difficulties in movement. Care must be exercised on these people when boarding.

Each observation cabin could ferry 28 people up the wheel, offering a 360 degree panoramic view of the Singapore cityscape. While revolving on the way up the Singapore Flyer, I was presented with an impressive backdrop of the marina bay and the tropical greenery of the surrounding island-state. I could even see parts of neighboring Malaysia and Indonesia islands of Batam and Bintan.

In about 15 minute’s time, we reached the peak of the Giant Wheel. I couldn’t stop but felt liberated that I was at the top of the world. Everything appeared so small, so modest here…isn’t it a good way to help put things on a different perspective from here?

While descending, you get an unobstructed visual of the Singapore City, the Central Business District with all the skyscrapers, the busy East Coast Park Highway, Singapore River and the Padang. It was simply breathtaking.

Everything together offers a picturesque landscape great for photo taking. I took almost a hundred shots here, a personal record so far in a single location.

There are many key landmarks to spot from here, such as the Esplanade, Collyer Quay, Fullerton Hotel Singapore, Fort Canning Park just to name a few. Not a bad idea for visitors to get to know Singapore better.

What is exciting about the flight is when looking down, you could see the Singapore Formula 1 Pit Building. Most of the Formula 1 circuit is within visual reach from the giant wheel’s observation cabin. Undoubtedly, this is the best spot to admire the most expensive race in the world.

Wait a minute, how about the upcoming Formula 1 power boat race? Yes, no problem at all. Overlooking the Marina Bay, the Singapore Flyer is a perfect hotspot to observe some of the major sport events in Singapore. Isn’t it very smart of the authority to plant the world largest Ferris Wheel at such a strategic spot?

The only setback though was that the Singapore I.R. (Integrated Resort) was still under construction with the highest concentration
of tower cranes sticking out all over a single building site. They were pretty hard to miss and could be rather unsightly sometimes. Wonder how it would look like when IR is ready in 2 years time?

The Giant Observation Wheel sits on a 3 storey retail terminal offering an exciting range of retail, souvenir and F&B outlets. In the middle of the terminal is a tropical rainforest atrium with some interesting water and rock features. Quite a great atmospheric and enchanting place to dine.

Anyone who is new to Singapore, anyone who wants to have a view of Singapore from the top, anyone who wants to impress their friends with some spectacular pictures of Singapore should go for a ride up the wheel.

For couples, the Singapore Flyer Cocktail flight lets you enjoy the ride while sipping their signature concoction. A perfect one of a kind experience.

Of course, not forgetting the families who have ran out of idea of where to go next. Something educational and visual for the kids I would say. No…no…no…not mathematics, not science but geography.

I heard the Singapore Flyer offers exclusive reservation for different private occasions such as birthday party, corporate function and even wedding ceremony. Do checkout the official website for more information on this.

The whole flight journey took about half an hour and it did give me a nice after feel and a wonderful family outing experience. My son enjoyed the most…he kept saying “again…again”.

Again I will. But it will have to be a night ride the next time to grab a view of the night city scene of Singapore. Maybe when the I.R. is ready.