Although the new Bali Port Opening 2026 and Transport to the Gili Islands is not completed yet, it is projected to become a major gateway for fast boat travel to the Gili Islands and Lombok once operational. Until then, most travelers continue using Padang Bai and Sanur as the primary departure ports for fast boat trips to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno.
The Gili Islands attract visitors with white-sand beaches, snorkeling, diving, and a relaxed island atmosphere. Fast boat services remain the preferred way to reach them from Bali, offering direct connections and minimal transfers. This guide explains how travel currently works, what will change once the Amed port opens, and how to choose the most reliable options.
Why take a fast boat from Bali to the Gili Islands?
Fast boat tickets are the most efficient and convenient way to reach the Gili Islands. Compared with flying to Lombok Airport or Lombok International Airport and continuing by car and boat, fast boats significantly reduce travel time and avoid multiple transfers. Many services include pickup from major Bali areas, making the process simpler for travelers.
Once the East Bali Port officially opens, the route from Amed to the Gili Islands is expected to become one of the quickest options, thanks to the shorter distance between East Bali and Lombok. Until then, departures continue from Padang Bai, Serangan, and Sanur.
Main departure ports in Bali
Padang Bai Port
Padang Bai remains the most popular departure point for fast boat rides to the Gili Islands. The crossing is shorter and often smoother than routes from southern Bali. Travelers can compare schedules and availability through platforms such as 12Go.
Serangan
Located near Sanur, Serangan is convenient for travelers staying in the southern region of Bali. Some routes make stops at Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida before continuing to the Gili Islands, which can extend travel time.
Sanur
Although most boats from Sanur head to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, some services connect onward to the Gili Islands. Options vary by season.
Future: Amed / East Bali Port
Once it opens, the new port in Amed is expected to become a major hub for Gili and Lombok fast boats. Its strategic position will reduce travel time and offer a more direct route for travelers staying in East Bali. For now, the port is still under development and not yet operational.
Fast boat routes and island stops
Most fast boats follow a similar island-hopping route:
Bali → Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida → Gili Trawangan → Gili Air → Gili Meno
Not all operators stop at every island, so travelers should always confirm whether their ticket includes their intended destination.
Choosing fast boat operators via 12Go
The easiest way to compare fast boat schedules, availability, and pricing is through 12Go. Instead of researching multiple individual companies, travelers can view all licensed operators in one place.
Benefits of booking through 12Go include:
Transparent pricing
Real-time schedules and seat availability
Clear route details and island stops
English-language customer support
This helps travelers choose based on timing, comfort, and reliability rather than brand names.
Travel time and sea conditions
Travel from Padang Bai to Gili Trawangan usually takes between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on the vessel, stops, and sea conditions. Routes that include Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan may take longer.
Morning departures typically offer the calmest conditions, while afternoon trips can be more affected by waves or weather changes.
Prices and hotel transfers
Ticket prices generally range from IDR 150,000 to 700,000 for a one-way fast boat. Many operators include hotel transfers from areas such as Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, Sanur, and Kuta. Travelers should double-check:
Pickup location and timing
Drop-off details on the Gili Islands
Luggage limits
Alternative routes: public ferry and Lombok
Budget travelers can use the public ferry from Padang Bai to Lombok, but the journey is slow and very basic. After arriving at Bangsal Harbour, travelers must take a local boat to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, or Gili Meno.
Another alternative is flying to Lombok Airport or Lombok International Airport, sometimes with domestic airlines, followed by a car ride to Bangsal Harbour. While this can work, it typically takes longer than a direct fast boat from Bali.
Best advice for 2026
With the East Bali Port expected to open in the coming years, travel options will continue evolving. These tips remain useful for 2026:
Book established, licensed operators through 12Go to ensure safety and reliability.
Choose Padang Bai when possible, as it remains the most efficient departure point until the new Amed port opens.
Avoid tight schedules on your travel day and allow extra time for sea-related delays.
Opt for morning departures for better sea conditions.
Confirm hotel transfers clearly and reconfirm the evening before departure.
Which option is best?
Most travelers get the smoothest experience by selecting a direct fast boat from Padang Bai with a reputable operator. Once the new East Bali Port opens, Amed will likely become the most efficient starting point thanks to its proximity to Lombok and the Gili Islands. Until then, Padang Bai and Serangan remain the most reliable choices.
Understanding your travel route, sea conditions, and ticket options ensures your trip to the Gili Islands begins stress-free, whether you’re planning for today or preparing for future travel once the new port officially opens.
