Travelers rank the route from Bali to Gili Trawangan among the most popular island connections in Indonesia, especially when planning a Bali to Gili Trawangan fast boat journey. The Gili Islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno – attract visitors with white-sand beaches, snorkeling, diving, and a relaxed island vibe. Fast boat services provide the most convenient way to reach the islands, with direct connections from Bali and minimal hassle.
This guide explains best fast boat routes, departure ports, ticket options, and alternative travel choices so you can choose the most reliable way to reach the Gili Islands.
Why take a fast boat from Bali to the Gili Islands?
Most travelers choose fast boat tickets as the most efficient way to reach the Gili Islands by fast ferries or modern boat rides. When you compare fast boats with flights to Lombok Airport or Lombok International Airport followed by car and boat transfers, fast boats save time, reduce transfers, and often include hotel transfers directly from your accommodation.
Main departure ports in Bali
Padang Bai Port
Padang Bai serves as the most popular departure point for fast boat rides to the Gili Islands. The crossing from Padang Bai is relatively short and more stable than routes from southern Bali. Multiple established operators run departures from this port, and travelers can easily compare schedules and availability through 12Go.
Serangan
Serangan sits near Sanur and offers a convenient option for travelers staying in southern Bali. Some routes stop at Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida before continuing to the Gili Islands, which can make the journey slightly longer.
Sanur
Boats mainly depart from Sanur toward Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida, although some services continue onward to the Gili Islands.
Fast boat routes and island stops
Most fast boat services and fast ferries follow a similar route:
Bali → Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida → Gili Trawangan → Gili Air → Gili Meno
Because not every operator stops at all islands, always confirm your exact destination when booking fast boat tickets.
Choosing fast boat operators via 12Go
Rather than booking directly with individual boat companies, we recommend using 12Go. The platform allows you to compare schedules, prices, departure ports, and real availability across multiple licensed operators in one place.
Booking through 12Go offers several advantages:
- Transparent pricing with fewer surprises
- Up-to-date schedules and seat availability
- Clear route information, including island stops
- Customer support in English
This approach removes the need to research individual operators and helps travelers choose the best option based on timing, comfort, and route instead of brand names.
Travel time and sea conditions
Fast boats usually take 1.5 to 2.5 hours to travel from Padang Bai to Gili Trawangan, depending on sea conditions, service type, and stops at Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan. Routes that include Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan may take longer.
Morning departures usually offer calmer sea conditions. During peak season or rough sea conditions, delays are possible, so it’s wise to plan some buffer time.
Prices and hotel transfers
Fast boat tickets typically range from IDR 150,000 to 700,000 for a one-way trip. Many tickets include hotel transfers from areas such as Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, Sanur, and Kuta.
Always confirm the following before booking:
- Pickup location and time
- Whether drop-off on the Gili Islands is included
- Luggage allowance
Alternative routes: public ferry and Lombok
Budget travelers can use the public ferry from Padang Bai to Lombok, but the service remains slow and basic. After arriving at Bangsal Harbour, you’ll need a local boat ride to reach Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, or Gili Meno.
Another option involves flying to Lombok Airport or Lombok International Airport, sometimes with airlines such as Lion Air, and then traveling by car to Bangsal Harbour. This route can work, but it usually takes longer overall than a direct fast boat.
Best advice for 2026
Travel conditions, boat standards, and traveler expectations continue to evolve. For 2026, choosing the right fast boat is less about the cheapest price and more about reliability, safety, and realistic travel timing.
Book established operators only – In recent years, authorities and ports have increased safety controls. When booking through 12Go, you can choose from licensed and established operators that meet current safety and operational standards.
Choose Padang Bai whenever possible – Even in 2026, Padang Bai remains the most stable and time-efficient departure point. Routes from southern Bali may look convenient on a map but often result in longer crossings and more stops.
Avoid tight schedules on travel days – Sea conditions are still unpredictable. Do not plan flights, diving trips, or important transfers on the same day you travel by fast boat.
Morning departures are still best – Early crossings generally offer calmer seas, fewer delays, and a more comfortable ride, especially during peak and shoulder seasons.
Confirm hotel transfers in writing – Always reconfirm pickup times and locations the evening before departure. Miscommunication around transfers remains one of the most common issues travelers face.
Which option is best?
Most travelers get the best experience by choosing a direct fast boat service from Padang Bai with a reputable operator. If comfort, safety, and flexibility are your priorities, comparing options through 12Go allows you to choose the best fast boat based on your travel date, departure port, and preferred schedule.
No matter which route you choose, booking with a reliable company and understanding the journey will help ensure your trip to the Gili Islands starts smoothly.
