Transport to the Gili Islands
Complete Guide to Getting to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air & Gili Meno from Bali & Lombok — including fast boats, private transfers, and airport shuttles.
Compare routes, prices, and schedules. Book reliable fast boat tickets with Palmz.
Getting to the Gili Islands: Your Transport Options
The Gili Islands are easily accessible via fast boats and private transfer options. With multiple daily departures from various ports, you can reach these tropical paradises in as little as 90 minutes from Bali or 20 minutes from Lombok.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about booking fast boats to the Gilis.
Private Transfers & Airport Shuttle (Lombok to Gili Islands)
For a smoother, hassle-free journey, travellers can book private transport options from Lombok directly to the Gili Islands. Palmz offers private car and driver services across Lombok, as well as a seamless airport transfer combining a private car with a private speedboat. This door-to-door option is the fastest, easiest, and most comfortable way to reach the Gilis, with hotel or airport pickup, no waiting times, and direct transfer to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, or Gili Meno.
Quick Facts About Fast Boats to Gili Islands
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From Bali: 90-180 minutes (Sanur/Serangan or Padang Bai)
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From Lombok: 20-30 minutes (Bangsal or Teluk Nare)
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Price range: 300,000-750,000 IDR ($20-50 USD) from Bali
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Daily departures: Multiple boats throughout the day
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All three islands: Boats stop at Gili T, Air, and Meno
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Included: Hotel pickup in Bali usually included
Main Routes to the Gili Islands
From Sanur/Serangan (South Bali)
A popular route from Bali - Convenient for travelers staying in Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and Ubud.
Journey Time: Approximately 3 hours
Departure Port: Serangan Island
Daily Departures: 8:30am, 10:30am, 1pm
Hotel Pickup: Included (South Bali)
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✅ Closest to main Bali tourist areas
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✅ Free hotel pickup from Seminyak/Kuta/Sanur
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✅ Multiple boat companies competing (good prices)
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✅ Modern, fast vessels
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⚠️ Longer journey time than Padang Bai
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⚠️ Can be rough in July-August winds
Approximate costs: 500,000-750,000 IDR/person
From Padang Bai (East Bali)
Fastest route from Bali. Best for travelers in Ubud, Candidasa, or those prioritizing shorter time on water.
Journey Time: 90 minutes
Departure Port: Padang Bai Harbor
Daily Departures: 9am, 12pm, 3pm
Hotel Pickup: Available (extra cost)
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✅ Shortest crossing from Bali (90 min)
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✅ Less time on water = less seasickness
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✅ Convenient from Ubud (1 hour drive)
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✅ Calmer waters, scenic route
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⚠️ 2-3 hour drive from South Bali
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⚠️ Pickup costs extra or DIY transport
Approximate costs: 350,000-650,000 IDR/person
From Amed (North Bali)
Quieter route from Bali's northeast coast. Perfect for travelers already in Amed area.
Journey Time: 75-90 minutes
Departure Port: Amed Beach
Daily Departures: 9:30am, 1pm
Hotel Pickup: Amed area only
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✅ Very short crossing time
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✅ Small, intimate boats
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✅ Less touristy departure point
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⚠️ Fewer departures per day
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⚠️ Long drive from South Bali (3-4 hours)
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⚠️ Fewer boat company options
Approximate costs: 300,000-450,000 IDR/person
From Bangsal/Teluk Nare (Lombok)
Shortest route if you're coming from Lombok. Local boats and fast boats available.
Journey Time: 20-30 minutes
Departure Port: Bangsal or Teluk Nare
Daily Departures: Regular departures across the day
Hotel Pickup: Available from Senggigi
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✅ Very short crossing (20 min)
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✅ Frequent departures
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✅ Public boats available (ultra cheap)
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✅ Direct from Lombok Airport possible, including private car + speedboat transfers for the fastest route to the Gilis
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⚠️ Public boats slow and can be crowded
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⚠️ Bangsal port can be chaotic
Approximate costs: 150,000-250,000 IDR/person
Inter-Island (Between Gilis)
Travel between Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno via public or private boats.
Journey Time: 5-15 minutes
Routes: All islands connected
Public Boats: Fixed schedule daily
Private Charter: On demand
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✅ Very cheap public boats
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✅ Frequent departures
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✅ Island hopping made easy
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✅ Private boats for groups
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⚠️ Schedule dependent on demand
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⚠️ Can be choppy in afternoon
Approximate costs: 25,000-50,000 IDR for a public boat, or 400,000+ IDR for a private speedboat
From Nusa Lembongan
Some fast boats stop at Nusa Lembongan en route from Sanur to the Gilis. Good for island hoppers.
Journey Time: 1.5-2 hours from Lembongan
Availability: Select boat companies
Daily Departures: 1-2 per day
Best For: Combining Nusa islands + Gilis
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✅ Visit multiple island destinations
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✅ No backtracking to Bali
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⚠️ Limited operators
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⚠️ Book in advance
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⚠️ Longer total journey
Approximate costs: 450,000-600,000 IDR
Route Comparison at a glance
From Bali
From Sanur
2-2.5 hours
500,000-750,000 IDR
South Bali travelers
3-5 daily
From Padang Bai
90 minutes
350,000-650,000 IDR
Ubud/East Bali, quick crossing
3-4 daily
From Amed
75-90 minutes
300,000-450,000 IDR
Amed area travelers
2 daily
From Lombok
Fast Boats
15-30 minutes
150,000-250,000 IDR
Regular departures across the day
Public Boats
30-45 minutes
25,000-50,000 IDR
Wooden boats from bangsal offer cheapest/slowest option
Inter-Island Speedboats
5-10 minutes
350,000+ IDR
Private charters 24hours a day
Recommended Fast Boat Companies
These operators have good safety records, reliable schedules, and positive customer reviews.
Eka Jaya Fast Boat
One of the most reliable operators with modern vessels. Excellent safety record and comfortable seating.
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Routes: Sanur, Padang Bai
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Free hotel pickup included
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Air-conditioned cabin
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Life jackets and safety brief
Bluewater Express
Premium service with excellent customer reviews. Spacious boats with outdoor deck areas.
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Routes: Sanur, Padang Bai
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Complimentary snacks and water
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Professional crew
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Online booking system
Scoot Fast Cruises
High-end service with luxury boats.
Worth the premium for a comfortable journey.
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Routes: Sanur mainly
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Mid-range pricing
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Good services to Lembongan and Penida
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Well established operator
Gili Getaway
Premium option with good service.
Multiple daily departures from various ports.
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Routes: Serangan harbour
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Services Gili Gede and around
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Reliable schedule
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Modern boats
⚠️ Booking Tip: Always book through reputable sources like Palmz app, official websites, or established travel agents. Avoid street touts at ports who may offer "cheaper" tickets - these are often scams or unreliable operators.
How to Book Fast Boat Tickets
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Choose Your Route
Decide which departure port works best based on your location in Bali and travel preferences (journey time vs price).
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Receive E-Ticket
Get your e-ticket via email or app. Screenshot it or print it out. Bring valid ID/passport for check-in.
Select Date & Time
Book at least 2 weeks in advance during peak season (July-September). Same-day tickets usually available in low season.
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Book Through Palmz
Use the Palmz app to compare prices and routes, and book tickets from reliable operators. Secure payment and instant confirmation.
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Hotel Pickup
If included, be ready 2-3 hours before departure. Driver will come to your hotel. Bring luggage and arrive at port 30 min early.
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Check-In & Board
Check in at the boat company counter, receive boarding pass, and wait in the departure lounge. Arrive 30-45mins early, board 10-15mins before departure.
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Why Book with Palmz App?
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Compare all boat companies in one place
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Quality, established operators
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Secure payment with buyer protection
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Instant e-ticket confirmation
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24/7 customer support if issues arise
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Competitive pricing
Important Tips for Fast Boat Travel
🎒 Luggage Allowance
Most boats are very generous with checked luggage, but if you have very large luggage requirements, it's best to confirm in advance if it's okay to travel with. Large backpacks go in cargo hold. Bring essentials only into the cabin.
💧 Waterproof Everything
Bring dry bags for electronics, cameras, and valuables if you intend to go on boat roofs. Spray can soak passengers during rough seas if you choose open seating areas.
🤢 Seasickness Prevention
Take seasickness medication 30 minutes before departure. Sit in middle of boat for least motion. Look at horizon, not phone screens.
⏰ Arrive Early
Be at port 30-45 mins before departure. Boats leave on time. Late arrivals may lose their booking without refund.
🌊 Check Weather
July-August can have rough seas from southern winds. Boats occasionally cancel for safety reasons. Book flexible tickets where possible. Most operators will change dates for free if they cancel due to weather conditions.
❄️ Bring Layers
Air-conditioned cabins can be cold. Bring a light jacket or sarong. Outside deck is hot and sunny - bring sunscreen if you intend to stay exposed on boat rooftops.
🆔 ID Required
Bring passport or ID card for check-in. Some operators won't let you board without proper identification.
💰 Return Tickets
Book return tickets when booking outbound for better prices. Open-dated returns available from most operators.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a fast boat to Gili Islands cost?
Prices range from around 300,000-750,000 IDR ($20-50 USD) for a one-way ticket from Bali, depending on departure port and boat company. Sanur/Serangan routes are typically more expensive as the route is longer on the ocean. Padang Bai offers the most consistently cheaper options, and Amed is also competitive. From Lombok to the Gilis via fast boat costs from 150,000-250,000 IDR. Book online through Palmz for best prices.
Which is better: Sanur or Padang Bai to Gili Islands?
Sanur/Serangan is better if you're staying in South Bali (Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta) because hotel pickup is included and it's closest. Padang Bai is better if you're in Ubud or want a shorter crossing time (90 minutes vs 2+ hours). Both routes are reliable - choose based on your Bali location.
Is hotel pickup included with fast boat tickets?
Most operators include free hotel pickup from South Bali areas (Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, Nusa Dua, Canggu) when departing from Sanur/Serangan. Padang Bai departures may charge extra for pickup or require you to get there yourself. Always confirm pickup details when booking. Pickup is typically 2-3 hours before boat departure.
Can I bring large luggage on the fast boat?
Yes, most boats provide large luggage allowances. Large backpacks and suitcases go in the cargo hold - they'll be loaded and unloaded by crew. Keep valuables, electronics, and essentials in your carry-on. Surfboards and dive equipment will need to be put in cargo.
What happens if the boat is canceled due to bad weather?
If the boat company cancels due to weather (rare but happens in rough seas), you'll generally get some form of refund or free rebooking to another departure. Always book with reputable operators who prioritize safety. If you book through Palmz, our partner boat company, GiliBookings customer support will help arrange alternatives.
Should I take seasickness medication?
If you're prone to seasickness, yes - take medication 30-60 minutes before boarding. The crossing can be choppy, especially July-August or in afternoon departures. Non-drowsy options like Dramamine or ginger tablets work well. Sitting in the middle of the boat and looking at the horizon helps. Most passengers are fine without medication.
Do fast boats go directly to Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno?
Most fast boats stop at Gili Trawangan first, then Gili Air. A select few also stop at Gili Meno. Use the Palmz app to check specific routes. Total time between islands is about 10-15 minutes each. Confirm your destination island when checking in.
Can I change my boat ticket date after booking?
Most operators allow date changes for a small fee (50,000-100,000 IDR) if you notify them at least 24 hours in advance. Some offer open-dated return tickets - but seats are not gauranteed. Policies vary by company - check terms when booking. Book through Palmz for easier rebooking assistance if your plans change.
Ready to Book Your Fast Boat to the Gili Islands?
Compare routes, check schedules, and book reliable fast boat tickets through the Palmz app.
Looking for the fastest and most seamless route? Book a private transfer directly in the app.
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