Think about gliding throughout the turquoise waters of the Lombok Strait, with Bali’s lush shoreline fading behind you and the rugged great thing about Lombok rising on the horizon.
As an skilled traveler, I’ve all the time discovered island hopping in Indonesia to be an exhilarating solution to soak within the area’s pure splendor.
Touring by boat makes you’re feeling like you might be truly visiting an island. If I’ve the time, I’ll go for that choice.
Bali, with its vibrant tradition and bustling seashores, is a worldwide favourite, however only a ferry experience away lies Lombok—a quieter island with pristine shores, world-class surf breaks, and the majestic Mount Rinjani.
Whether or not you’re chasing journey or tranquility, taking the ferry from Bali to Lombok is a scenic, budget-friendly solution to journey. This information covers the most effective ferry routes, operators, schedules, costs, and sensible ideas to make sure your journey is easy and memorable.
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Seashore with boats in Lombok, Indonesia.
Bali to Lombok by Ferry: Finest Routes and Recommendation
Touring between Bali and Lombok by ferry is a well-liked and scenic solution to discover Indonesia’s lovely islands. Whether or not you’re island-hopping, heading to Lombok’s serene seashores, or planning to go to the Gili Islands close by, realizing your ferry choices, schedules, and what to anticipate can prevent time and trouble.
The Fundamentals: Is There a Ferry from Bali to Lombok?
Sure, there are a number of ferry routes connecting Bali and Lombok, operating year-round with elevated frequency through the excessive season (June to September). The space between the islands is about 32 nautical miles (roughly 60 km), and relying on the route and ferry sort, crossing occasions vary from about 1 hour quarter-hour to over 5 hours.
You’ll move Penida Island after which count on a couple of waves because the water and wind push by means of the channel between the islands.
The place Do You Catch the Ferry in Bali?
You could have three most important ports to select from:
Padang Bai (japanese Bali): The busiest and hottest departure level, with a number of ferry corporations working right here. The port space has ticket places of work, cafés, and primary facilities.
Serangan (south of Denpasar): A much less crowded various with a extra relaxed vibe. Close by, you’ll discover eating places and cafés to seize a chew earlier than boarding.
Sanur (southeastern coast): Provides fashionable amenities and scenic waterfront views, making it a cushty place to begin on your ferry journey.
Selecting your port is determined by the place you’re staying in Bali and your most popular arrival level in Lombok.
Lombok Arrival Ports
Ferries from Bali arrive primarily at:
Bangsal: Northern Lombok, a gateway to the Gili Islands.
Senggigi: Western Lombok, near common resorts and seashores.
Seashore arrival with Eka Jaya Boats in Lombok, Indonesia.
Ferry Routes and Operators
There are 5 key ferry routes between Bali and Lombok:
RouteDurationNotesSerangan → Bangsal~2 to three hoursPopular for Gili Islands accessSerangan → Senggigi~2 to three hoursDirect to Lombok’s west coastPadang Bai → Bangsal~1 hr 15 min to 2 hrsFastest route availablePadang Bai → Senggigi~1 hr 15 min to 2 hrsHigh-speed ferries function hereSanur → Bangsal~2 to three hoursLess frequent however scenic
Ferry Firms to Know
You’ll discover quite a lot of operators, every with completely different schedules, consolation ranges, and costs:
Gili Getaway: Identified for dependable service and a number of routes.
Blue Water Categorical: Provides quick and comfy boats.
Eka Jaya: Well-liked for reasonably priced fares and frequent departures.
Gili Gili Quick Boat, Sugriwa Categorical, Tanis Quick Cruise, Semaya One Quick Cruise, Ganggari Quick Boat, Scoot Quick Cruises, Starfish Quick Cruise, and Wanderlust Cruise additionally function on these routes.
Reserving early is suggested, particularly throughout peak season, as boats can fill rapidly.
Gili Getaway Quick Boats in Indonesia.
How Lengthy Does the Ferry Take?
Journey occasions range broadly:
The quickest ferry runs on the Padang Bai to Senggigi route, taking about 1 hour quarter-hour.
Different routes, like from Serangan to Bangsal or Senggigi, can take 2 to three hours relying on the boat and sea situations.
Some slower ferries or these making stops might take longer.
Costs and Tickets
One-way ferry tickets usually price between €20 and €45 (roughly $22 to $50 USD), relying on the route, operator, and season.
Most corporations permit one piece of baggage as much as 25 kg included within the ticket worth. There are not any cabins on these comparatively brief journeys, however seating is comfy.
Reductions are sometimes out there for kids and infants however range by operator.
Ferry Varieties
Touring from Bali to Lombok by ferry comes down to 2 most important selections: quick boats and public ferries. Every has its strengths, relying in your price range, time constraints, and journey model.
Quick Boats
These fashionable vessels prioritize velocity and luxury, taking 1.5 to three hours to cross the Lombok Strait. They depart from Bali’s ports like Padang Bai, Sanur, or Serangan, arriving at Bangsal or Senggigi in Lombok.
Costs vary from $15 to $50 one-way, and facilities usually embody air-con and life jackets.
Operators like Bali Eka Jaya and Gili Getaway are recognized for reliability.
Blue Water Categorical from Bali to Lombok.
Public Ferries
Operated by ASDP (Pelayaran Nasional Indonesia), these slower ferries run 24/7 from Padang Bai to Lembar Harbor, taking 4 to eight hours.
Tickets are reasonably priced at round 80,000 IDR (~$5) per particular person, plus a 20,000 IDR harbor tax.
They’re ultimate for price range vacationers or these bringing motorbikes, although situations could be cramped and primary.
What to Anticipate Onboard
Seating: Most ferries supply indoor and outside seating. Outside seats present nice views however could be scorching or windy.
Amenities: Fundamental facilities like bathrooms can be found, however don’t count on luxurious.
No automobiles or pets: At present, no ferries between Bali and Lombok permit automobiles or pets onboard.
Movement illness: The ocean could be uneven, particularly through the wet season. For those who’re susceptible to seasickness, convey treatment or select the quickest route to attenuate discomfort.
Sensible Ideas for Your Bali to Lombok Ferry Journey
Arrive early: Ports like Padang Bai can get busy, so arrive 30 to 60 minutes earlier than departure.
Guide upfront: Use dependable platforms to check schedules and costs. For instance, you’ll be able to verify all out there ferry routes and e-book tickets for how you can attain Lombok simply on Ferryhopper.
Pack mild and waterproof: Baggage dealing with could be primary, and waves may splash on deck.
Plan your onward journey: From Bangsal, you’ll be able to catch boats to the Gili Islands, whereas Senggigi is an efficient base for exploring Lombok.
Be ready for delays: Climate and sea situations typically trigger schedule modifications or cancellations.
Different Ferry Connections to Lombok Past Bali
Lombok isn’t simply related to Bali by ferry-there are a number of different handy routes from close by Indonesian islands, making it straightforward to weave Lombok right into a broader island-hopping journey.
Right here’s a breakdown of the principle alternate options.
Gili Islands to Lombok
The Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno) are only a stone’s throw from Lombok’s northwest coast. Ferries and public boats run continuously between every Gili and Lombok’s Bangsal or Teluk Nare ports.
Journey time: 10–20 minutes, relying on the island.
Frequency: A number of day by day departures; public boats go away as soon as full, whereas quick boats have set schedules.
Value: Round IDR 19,500–22,500 ($1.20–$1.50 USD) for public boats; quick boats are barely increased however supply extra consolation.
Expertise tip: The crossing is fast and often easy, however boats can get crowded throughout peak occasions. Reserving forward is wise if you would like a seat on a quick boat. Quick boats are fashionable, with air-conditioned seating and life jackets. The brief crossing makes this route good for vacationers combining a Gili Islands go to with a Lombok journey. The quickest path to Lombok is from Gili Trawangan to Bangsal, taking round quarter-hour.
Native boat Alvita on the seaside in Lombok, Indonesia.
Sumbawa to Lombok
Lombok’s japanese port, Kayangan, and western port, Lembar, each have common ferry connections to Sumbawa (Poto Tano and Sape ports).
Journey time: 1–2 hours, relying on the route and sea situations.
Frequency: Ferries run usually all through the day.
Operators: Public ferries accommodate each passengers and automobiles; non-public speedboats are additionally out there for a premium.
Surroundings: This crossing presents panoramic views and occasional dolphin sightings-well definitely worth the journey for these heading east.
Expertise tip: Ferries are geared up with life jackets, lifeboats, fireplace extinguishers, a musholla (prayer room), canteen, bathrooms, and VIP rooms (additional price). The route is right for vacationers shifting between Sumbawa’s rugged landscapes and Lombok’s points of interest.
Different Indonesian Islands
Whereas Bali and the Gilis are the preferred jumping-off factors, it’s also possible to attain Lombok by ferry from different islands in Indonesia, particularly throughout excessive season when additional routes might function. For instance, some routes from Flores or Komodo (Labuan Bajo) might embody stops in Lombok, however these are much less frequent and usually a part of longer, multi-day boat excursions.
Good to know
For all these routes, you should buy tickets on the harbor, however reserving on-line upfront (particularly for quick boats or throughout excessive season) saves time and avoids haggling.
Actual Speak: The Challenges
Whereas the ferry experience is mostly easy, some vacationers have famous that:
Port amenities could be primary, particularly at Bangsal.
Schedules might change with out a lot discover, so flexibility is essential.
Sea situations could be tough, making the journey uncomfortable for some.
Ticket places of work typically have complicated data, so double-check your reserving and departure particulars.
Regardless of these hiccups, the ferry stays probably the most scenic and cost-effective methods to get from Bali to Lombok.
Finest tip is to plan higher, usually choosing quick boats for consolation or public ferries for price range journeys. The hot button is to anticipate potential hiccups—like tough seas or crowded ports—and put together accordingly.
Ships on the seaside in Lombok, Indonesia.
Sensible Ideas for a Easy Journey
Drawing from private expertise and insights from fellow vacationers, listed here are tricks to make your ferry journey seamless:
Guide in Advance: Quick boats can promote out, particularly from June to September. Reserving on-line upfront ensures a spot and infrequently presents reductions.
Arrive Early: Ports like Padang Bai could be chaotic. Arrive 30-60 minutes earlier than departure to verify in and keep away from stress. I as soon as almost missed a ferry on account of lengthy queues—don’t make that mistake!
Put together for Sea Illness: The Lombok Strait could be tough, particularly within the moist season (November-March). Take movement illness treatment half-hour earlier than boarding, and sit within the center and behind the boat for stability.
Pack Necessities: Deliver water, snacks, and leisure (e.g., downloaded podcasts or books), as facilities are restricted, particularly on public ferries. A small backpack with sunscreen and a hat is right.
Costume Appropriately: Put on mild, breathable clothes for quick boats, as they will get heat. For public ferries, pack a jacket, as air-con could be chilly.
Organize Transport in Lombok: Ports like Lembar and Bangsal have restricted public transport, and taxi drivers might overcharge. Pre-book a personal switch or affirm together with your lodging. Bangsal, particularly, has a status for scams, so keep vigilant.
Examine the Climate: Tough seas can delay or cancel ferries. Examine forecasts and keep away from touring throughout stormy climate for security.
Baggage Issues: Quick boats permit one 25 kg bag free, however house is tight. Public ferries are higher for motorbikes or bigger baggage, although loading could be gradual.
Security First: Select respected operators like Bali Eka Jaya or Blue Water Categorical for quick boats, and guarantee life jackets can be found. For public ferries, follow daytime crossings for a extra comfy expertise.
Take into account Alternate options: If time is tight, flying from Bali to Lombok (35 minutes, $60-$125) is an choice, particularly for Kuta-bound vacationers, because the airport is simply 20 minutes away. Examine prices and comfort earlier than deciding.
Why Go to Lombok?
Lombok is a vacation spot that looks like Bali’s much less crowded cousin, providing a mix of pure magnificence and cultural richness.
Its uncrowded seashores, vibrant marine life, and cultural authenticity supply a refreshing escape from Bali’s hustle.
Kuta Lombok is a surfer’s paradise with breaks like Gerupuk and Mawi, whereas Senggigi boasts serene seashores and vibrant sunsets. For adventurers, climbing Mount Rinjani is a bucket-list expertise, and the island’s waterfalls, like Tiu Kelep, are breathtaking.
The ferry journey itself provides to the journey, providing beautiful ocean views and an opportunity to really feel the heart beat of Indonesia’s island life.
Volcano in Lombok, Indonesia.
Last Ideas
Touring by ferry from Bali to Lombok is a rewarding expertise that permits you to soak in Indonesia’s island vibes proper from the water. With a number of routes, operators, and departure factors, there’s flexibility to suit most journey plans and budgets.
For a hassle-free reserving expertise and to discover all of your choices on one platform, take a look at how you can attain Lombok by ferry on Ferryhopper’s Bali to Lombok web page.
Whether or not you’re chasing seashores, waterfalls, or the well-known Gili Islands, the ferry is your gateway to the subsequent chapter of your Indonesian journey. Simply pack sensible, e-book early, and benefit from the experience.
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I am positive you have had comparable experiences I had while touring. You are in a sure place and a fellow traveler, or an area, tip you off on a little-known seaside, bar or lodging. Nice journey ideas from different vacationers or locals all the time add one thing particular to our travels. That was the inspiration for Journey Dudes.
