Many tourists who visit Bali often choose to extend their vacation by taking a trip to the Gili Islands. These islands, particularly Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno, are highly sought after for their idyllic scenery and unique atmosphere.
Before knowing how to reach Gili islands from Bali, let’s know a little bit about what are the things to do on Gili Islands to decide which one you want to go to!
The Gili Islands are renowned for their crystal-clear turquoise waters, making them the best place for snorkelling🤿 and diving enthusiasts. The abundant marine life🐟, including colourful coral reefs🪸 and a variety of tropical fish, attracts underwater adventurers from all over the world.
The Gili Islands are peaceful and clean because there are no motorised vehicles. Visitors can explore the islands by bicycle or on foot. This relaxed atmosphere makes the Gili Islands different from Bali’s most popular beaches, which are busy and crowded tourist spots.
If you want adventure and relaxation, the Gili Islands provide a lovely getaway that makes a great addition to your Bali vacation.
Gili Trawangan is known for its active nightlife and beach parties. In contrast, Gili Air has a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere with charming beachfront cafes and a slower pace of life. Gili Meno, the least developed island of the three, is ideal for those looking for a peaceful retreat in beautiful surroundings.
Most of the tourists stay in Gili T because of its lively nightlife and bustling crowd. But some choose Gili Meno and Air to enjoy their peaceful time. So, let’s find out the different modes you can use to reach Gili Islands from Bali.
Spoiler Alert!🤫🤭
How to Reach Gili Island from Bali?Speedboats are the most preferred means of transport to reach Gili Island from Bali because of their time-saving nature. However, you get several options to reach the Gili Islands from Bali, such as ferries, speedboats, and flights. So, let us know about each mode of transportation, its cost, and time. |
Modes of Transportation to Reach Gili Islands from Bali
Speed Boats:
Bali speed boats are powerful motorised watercraft. It is designed to traverse the waters at high speeds, connecting Bali with various nearby islands, such as the Nusa Islands and the Gili Islands.
These boats are commonly used for both passenger transportation and water sports activities. It offers a thrilling means to explore the coastline and crystal-clear waters of the region.
Many speed boats are equipped with modern amenities. Also, to ensure a comfortable journey, they have experienced crews who prioritise safety. These boats are popular for island hopping, diving, and sightseeing, highlighting Bali’s rich marine life🐟 and exquisite landscapes.
Why Choose Speedboats to Reach Gili Island from Bali?
✅ The Trip to Gili takes the Least Time to Reach by Speedboat:
If you are planning to reach the beautiful Gili Islands quickly, taking a boat is your best option, as travelling by speedboat is time-saving. It typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on where you depart from in Bali.
This is much quicker than taking a combination of a ferry or flight to Lombok and then a smaller boat to the Gilis, which can take several hours. Speedboats are the best option if you are limited on time and want to maximise your experience on the islands.
✅ Speedboats offer a Direct Route to Reach Gili Island from Bali:
Speedboats provide direct services from Bali to the Gili Islands. This means you don’t need to switch boats or wait for other ferries. The journey is smoother and easier, especially if you have limited luggage or are travelling with a group.
Many fast boats go straight to Gili Trawangan or Gili Air, the most popular islands. Speedboats are a great choice if you want to reach the best beaches and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
✅ Many Boat Companies offer Daily Services and Multiple Departures:
There is a variety of boat companies that provide regular daily trips to the Gili Islands. This means that tourists have options regarding schedules, prices, and types of boats, making it easy to find a service that fits your plans.
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The cost of a speedboat from Bali to Gili Island is 350,000 IDR- 900,000 IDR (approx. 2000 INR- 5000 INR). |
Speedboats typically have multiple departures per day, which gives you the flexibility to choose a time that suits your schedule. You don’t have to wait around for long periods.
There are often boats departing from different ports on Bali (Padangbai, Serangan, etc.), so you can choose the most convenient location based on where you’re staying.
When travelling from Bali to the Gili Islands by fast boat, the journey can take anywhere from 1 to 5 hours, depending on where you are staying in Bali and the route you take.
- North Bali: The quickest route is from Amed to the Gili Islands if you are staying in the northern parts of Bali, like Amed or Tulamben. This route is super fast, but it’s only convenient if you are based in the northern region.
- East Bali: The most popular and fastest route is from Padang Bai to the Gili Islands, taking around 1.5 hours. This option is great for most people, especially since many fast boat services offer free pick-ups from popular areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, Sanur, and Candidasa, making it really convenient.
- South Bali: If you are in South Bali, like Kuta, Seminyak, or Canggu, you will most likely catch a boat from Serangan or Sanur. However, these routes often make stops along the way, which can make the journey longer.
While these locations are closer to the main tourist areas, the trip could take up to 5 hours if you don’t get off at places like Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida along the way. But if you are planning to explore those islands first, this route works great!👍🏻
So, depending on where you’re staying and how much time you have, you will find the best route to suit your schedule. It’s good to keep in mind that the boat ride from East Bali is generally the easiest option for most travellers heading to the Gili Islands.
Ferries:
Ferries are specialised boats designed to transport passengers across bodies of water in Bali. It is an integral part of the leisure industry, offering various services that cater to both locals and tourists.
They play a significant role in public transport systems, especially in areas where road infrastructure is limited or impractical, such as islands or across rivers. For instance, island-hopping ferries enable travellers to explore multiple destinations in a single journey, often providing scenic views along the way.
Ferry sightseeing tours offer a special view of coastal landscapes, marine wildlife, and waterfronts. These relaxing trips help boost tourism by combining transportation with the enjoyment of beautiful natural scenery.
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The cost of ferries from Bali to Gili Island is 247,500 IDR- 850,000 IDR (approx. 1320 INR- 4600 INR) |
Who Should Choose a Ferry to Reach Gili Island from Bali?
Tourists Looking for a Budget-friendly Option:
Ferries are much less expensive compared to speedboats. If you are travelling on a tight budget or don’t mind a longer journey, taking the ferry is a cost-effective way to get to the Gili Islands. The ferry to Lombok, followed by a smaller boat to the Gili Islands, is typically cheaper than a direct speedboat.
Tourists Looking to Enjoy Leisure Time (4-6 hours):
If you have a bit more time to spare and enjoy leisurely scenic boat rides, the ferry offers a slower, more relaxed option to take in the surroundings.
The ferry journey can give you a chance to enjoy the coastline of Bali and Lombok at a leisurely pace. It’s less of a “touristy” experience, and you will get a chance to experience local island travel more authentically.
The ferry to Gili Island has a Lombok Stopover:
If you’re not in a hurry to reach the Gili Islands, consider exploring Lombok first. Taking the ferry lets you stop and enjoy some time in Lombok before you switch to a boat for the Gili Islands.
[Note: If you’re short on time and want to get to the Gili Islands quickly, the ferry is not the best option, as it takes a lot longer than a speedboat. If you’re looking for comfort or want a smoother, faster journey, speedboats are generally the way to go].
Service Operators for Speed Boats and Ferries to reach Gili Islands from bali
- Bluewater Express
- Gili Getaway
- Bali Eka Jaya
- D’Camel Fast Ferry
- Einstein Fast Boat
- El Rey Fast Cruise
- Gili Gili Fast Boat
- Scoot Cruises
- Sudin Transport Water Taxis
Also, you can check prices and availability on Gilitickets.com. You can also book a transfer ticket from Lombok Airport to Gili through Gili Island Transfers.
Flight
Lombok Airport is in the southeast part of Lombok Island, 35 kilometres from Mataram City and 48 kilometres from Senggigi. To get to Gili from Lombok Airport, first go to either Senggigi, Bangsal Harbour or Teluk Nare Harbour. These three piers offer speed boats or ferries to Gili.
Changing modes of transport frequently can be challenging, especially with luggage. As a result, many people tend to avoid it, making this route the least chosen for travelling to Gili Island from Bali.
In case you want to travel by flight, below mentioned are the essential steps to reach Gili Island from Bali by flight-
- You can take a local flight from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali (Denpasar) to Lombok International Airport. The flight duration is approximately 30 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for travellers.
- Upon your arrival at Lombok International Airport, you can easily find transportation options. Taxis and shuttle services are available just outside the terminal, ready to take you to Bangsal Harbor, which is about a 1.5-hour drive away, depending on traffic.
- Once you arrive at Bangsal Harbor, you can board a speedboat to the Gili Islands. The boat ride typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes, offering beautiful views of the surrounding waters and islands along the way.
| Flight from Denpasar, Bali to Lombok costs 2522.000 IDR- 3880,000 IDR (approx. 13,000 INR-20,000 INR) |
Things to Remember while Travelling from Bali to Gili Island
Check the Weather before taking Sea Routes:
It is the weather that sometimes affects sea travel (boat schedules). So, it is always advisable to check the weather forecast and contact your boat operator in advance to ensure your trip is on schedule.
Check your Sea Conditions:
If you are someone who experiences seasickness, don’t forget to take motion sickness tablets💊 before the journey.
Pre-book Tickets & Confirm Departure Times:
It’s always best to book your ticket online in advance, especially if you are travelling during peak tourist seasons (July, August, and December), as boats can get fully booked. After booking the tickets🎫, it is important to reach the port on time.
Pack Light:
Don’t overstuff your luggage; just carry the essentials. Pack light and breathable clothes and comfortable flip-flops or sandals so that it will be easy to walk around. Also, don’t forget to apply sunscreens to avoid suntans.
Carry Cash:
Don’t forget to carry cash, as using a card charges you extra. Also, keep your cash in a secure place like a money belt or hotel safe🏨. It’s better to withdraw smaller amounts and keep what you need for the day.
Conclusion
To reach Gili Islands, there are several ways to travel, but it is important to choose the right one. It is ideal to select an option based on your preferences for speed, comfort, and budget. The most common and efficient way is to take a fast boat. It typically departs from ports in Bali such as Padang Bai, Serangan, or Amed.
It can be challenging to decide and book your travel arrangements. Customise your Bali itinerary, including Gili Island, with Dimaak Tours and enjoy your vacation while we take care of all your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling from Bali to Gili Islands
What is the best ferry from Bali to Gili Islands?
The best ferry options are fast boats that depart from various ports in Bali, like Padangbai, Sanur, and Serangan. Popular operators include Gili Getaway, BlueWater Express, and Eka Jaya.
How do I take a boat trip to the Gili Islands from Bali?
You can book a boat trip through various operators offering fast boat services from Bali. Most boats depart from Bali’s southern ports (like Sanur or Serangan) and head directly to the Gili Islands. It’s recommended to book in advance.
How do I get from Bali to the Gili Islands?
The most common way is by fast boat, but you can also take a combination of a ferry and a public boat. Alternatively, some travellers choose a flight to Lombok followed by a short boat ride to the Gilis.
How long is the trip from Bali to Gili Islands?
The ferry ride from Bali to the Gili Islands typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the operator and weather conditions.
What is the ferry cost from Bali to Gili Islands?
The cost of a one-way fast ferry ticket ranges from IDR 350,000 to IDR 600,000, depending on the operator and class of service.
What are the transport options from Bali to Gili Islands?
The main transport option is a fast boat from Bali to the Gili Islands. Other options include taking a flight to Lombok and then a short boat ride to the Gili Islands.
How long is the ferry ride from Bali to the Gili Islands?
The ferry ride typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, though this can vary based on weather conditions and the specific departure point.
How do I travel from Bali to the Gili Islands?
Most people travel by fast boat, which is the most convenient and direct option. Alternatively, you can take a flight to Lombok and then a boat to the Gili Islands.
What is the cost of travel from Bali to the Gili Islands?
The cost depends on the mode of transport. A fast boat ticket generally costs between IDR 350,000 and IDR 600,000, while flights to Lombok typically start from around IDR 500,000.
Can I do a day trip from Bali to the Gili Islands?
Yes, it’s possible to do a day trip to the Gili Islands from Bali. However, it’s recommended to start early and be mindful of the travel time to make the most of your day.
How do I get to the Gili Islands from Bali?
The most convenient way is by fast boat, with departures from Bali’s southern ports. You can also take a flight to Lombok and then continue to the Gilis by boat.
