It is used as a terminal for tourists and day-trippers who are boarding small boats and ferries heading for the Southern Islands.

Spare parts, documents, water test kits and 3D-printed consumables are partly delivered via Unmanned Aircraft Systems (drones) to vessels anchored at the South Pier.

[2] The pier commenced operations in April 2006,[3] but due to poor transport connections and lack of development in the vicinity, boat operators at the pier initially fared poorly, while efforts by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore to publicise the pier had little effect.

[4] Marina South Pier was subsequently officially opened in June 2006, and played host to an open house showcasing careers in the maritime industry to students.

Capable of handling up to 3,000 passengers, Marina South Pier comprises a three-storey building with immigration facilities, food establishments, a viewing deck and ticketing booths.