Bali to Gili Islands — Fast Boat Guide

# Bali to Gili Islands — Fast Boat Guide

Island-hopping in Indonesia is an adventure in itself, and no route is more popular than the journey between Bali and the Gili Islands. The Gilis are a favorite among travelers for their crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and relaxed vibe. Fast boats have become the main and most accessible way to travel between these islands. If you want to understand the differences between routes, real costs, and the best options, this guide is for you.

## Overview of Routes from Bali to the Gili Islands

Dozens of fast boats operate between Bali and the Gili Islands, with several main routes departing from various ports in Bali and arriving at the three main Gili Islands (especially Gili Trawangan). The routes differ in travel time, comfort, price, and overall experience.

### Main Departure Ports in Bali

- **Padang Bai:** The busiest and primary port; most fast boats depart from here.
- **Sanur:** A smaller port, convenient for those staying in Ubud or Denpasar.
- **Kusamba:** Located further east, less touristy, but offers direct boats to the Gilis.

### Arrival Ports in the Gilis

- **Gili Trawangan:** The largest and most popular island, most boats stop here.
- **Gili Air and Gili Meno:** Some boats also stop at these smaller islands.
- **Lombok:** An option for those continuing to the nearby island of Lombok.

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## Comparing the Main Routes

### 1. Padang Bai (Bali) → Gili Trawangan

- **Travel time:** 1.5–2.5 hours (direct; depends on boat and sea conditions)
- **Price:** 200,000–500,000 IDR (check current prices)
- **Booking platforms:** [12Go](https://12go.asia), [Bookaway](https://bookaway.com), [Direct Ferries](https://directferries.com), [Ferryhopper](https://ferryhopper.com)
- **Comfort:** Larger boats offer a relatively smooth ride. Expect air conditioning, comfortable seats, and sometimes basic toilets.
- **Frequency:** Multiple daily departures, mainly in the morning.

**Direct route link:** [Padang Bai Bali to Gili Trawangan](/routes/padang-bai-bali-gili-trawangan-island-lombok)

**Editorial insight:** Padang Bai is the top choice for the best balance of price, frequency, and safety. However, due to high demand, arrive early to avoid queues and confusion. During the wet season (November–March), expect possible delays or cancellations due to sea conditions.

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### 2. Sanur (Bali) → Gili Trawangan

- **Travel time:** 2.5–3.5 hours (direct or with a stop at Nusa Penida/Lombok)
- **Price:** 350,000–600,000 IDR (check current prices)
- **Booking platforms:** 12Go, Bookaway, Direct Ferries, Ferryhopper
- **Comfort:** Smaller boats, which can mean a bumpier ride in rough seas. Seats are basic; some boats have no toilets.
- **Frequency:** Only 1–2 departures daily.

**Direct route link:** [Sanur Bali to Gili Trawangan](/routes/bali-gili-trawangan-island-lombok)

**Editorial insight:** Especially convenient for those staying in Denpasar or Ubud. The trip is longer and smaller boats are more sensitive to waves—if you're prone to seasickness, consider bringing medication.

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### 3. Kusamba (Bali) → Gili Islands

- **Travel time:** 1.5–2 hours (direct, sometimes with a brief stop in Lombok)
- **Price:** 250,000–500,000 IDR
- **Booking platforms:** 12Go, Bookaway, Direct Ferries, Ferryhopper
- **Comfort:** Medium-sized boats, usually less crowded than the main routes. Fewer onboard facilities, but sometimes a more relaxed experience.
- **Frequency:** Several departures daily, mostly in the morning.

**Direct route link:** [Kusamba to Gili Islands](/routes/bali-gili-islands)

**Editorial insight:** A lesser-known route, ideal for those seeking a relatively quick trip and willing to travel to a less central port. Less crowded, more authentic, but with fewer alternatives if sailings are canceled.

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### 4. Padang Bai (Bali) → Lombok → Gili Islands

- **Travel time:** 2–2.5 hours (includes a stop in Lombok)
- **Price:** Similar to direct routes — 200,000–500,000 IDR
- **Booking platforms:** 12Go, Bookaway, Direct Ferries, Ferryhopper
- **Comfort:** Large boats; sometimes passengers disembark in Lombok and change to a smaller boat for the Gilis.
- **Frequency:** Multiple daily departures.

**Direct route link:** [Padang Bai Bali to Lombok](/routes/padang-bai-bali-gili-trawangan-island-lombok)

**Editorial insight:** A good option for those planning to continue on to Lombok or break up the journey. Be aware that transfers between boats in Lombok can be a bit chaotic, especially in peak season.

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## Comfort and Safety Comparison

- **Boat size:** Padang Bai routes generally use larger, more stable boats—ideal for a smoother trip.
- **Sea conditions:** The wet season can bring rougher seas—important to consider if you're sensitive to sea travel.
- **Facilities:** Most boats provide bottled water and occasionally light snacks, but it's best to bring your own. Some boats offer only basic toilets.
- **Advance booking:** During summer and peak season (July–September), book early. Platforms like 12Go and Bookaway let you compare companies and boat types.

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## Practical Tips for Choosing a Route

- **Where you're staying in Bali:** If you're in the south (Kuta, Denpasar), Sanur is most convenient; for central or northeast Bali, choose Padang Bai or Kusamba.
- **Seasickness:** Opt for larger boats and shorter routes (Padang Bai/Kusamba).
- **Tight schedule:** Choose an early departure—afternoon boats are more likely to be canceled due to weather.
- **At the port:** Arrive at least an hour early, especially at Padang Bai, to avoid unnecessary delays.

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## Key Things to Know Before Booking

- **Hotel transfer to port:** Some companies offer pickups for an extra fee—worth checking in advance.
- **Cancellation policy:** The climate is tropical—check if you can change or cancel without penalty due to weather.
- **Luggage:** Bring a small bag with you; large bags are usually stored in the boat's hold (make sure it's waterproof).
- **Reliable companies:** Stick to operators with positive reviews on well-known platforms. Sometimes the cheapest option means delays, crowded boats, or poor maintenance.

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## Summary — What’s the Best Route?

- **For most travelers:** [Padang Bai Bali to Gili Trawangan](/routes/padang-bai-bali-gili-trawangan-island-lombok) — high availability, comfort, and fair prices.
- **If staying in South Bali:** [Sanur Bali to Gili Trawangan](/routes/bali-gili-trawangan-island-lombok) — saves overland travel time, but longer boat ride.
- **For a quieter alternative:** [Kusamba to Gili Islands](/routes/bali-gili-islands) — less crowded, sometimes a more authentic experience.
- **If continuing to Lombok:** [Padang Bai Bali to Lombok](/routes/padang-bai-bali-gili-trawangan-island-lombok) — convenient for onward travel.

**Editorial recommendation:** For comfort and safety, invest in a larger boat, even if it costs a bit more. Remember, the sea journey in Indonesia is part of the adventure, but good planning makes the difference between an enjoyable trip and a tiring ordeal.