We've travelled by boats to and from Bali for many years. Here's all you need to know: what to look out for, sea travel tips & our safety checklist.
Boat trips in Bali can be a real dream. Whether it’s catching a fast boat to Nusa Penida, cruising over to the Gili Islands, or diving head-first into a liveaboard in Komodo, boat travel is a big part of the Indonesia experience. But with recent boat incidents around Bali making headlines, many travellers are asking the obvious: is it still safe to travel by boat in Bali?
Short answer: yes – if you do it right.
We live here, we boat often, and we’ve learnt what to look out for. So, we’ve pulled together an honest, up-to-date guide on staying safe while travelling by boat in Bali. From choosing reliable fast boat companies, to understanding tides and swell, here’s how to travel by boat around Bali with peace of mind (and utmost safety).
So, what’s been happening with boats in Indonesia lately?
Let’s address the elephant on the ocean: yes, there have been several boat accidents in Indonesia in 2024 and 2025, including some involving fast boats to Nusa Penida and the Gilis. Some have been serious, involving capsizing and injuries. Many of these incidents were caused by overcrowding, rough seas, poor maintenance, or operators ignoring safety warnings.
That said, not all boats are created equal – and most mishaps have occurred with budget or poorly regulated operators. The good news? Bali has reputable companies that follow international safety standards and actively monitor marine conditions. It’s all about knowing who to trust.
What to look for when choosing the best Fast Boat in Bali
When it comes to boat travel in Indonesia, your choice of operator matters. Here’s what we always check before stepping onboard:
1. Safety certifications & licenses
Make sure the boat company has the proper licenses to operate. Reputable companies often follow International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards and are registered with ASDP Indonesia Ferry or the Ministry of Transportation.
2. Boat condition & crew training
A well-maintained boat is a must. Look for companies with modern vessels, life jackets for every passenger, and visible safety briefings. Trained crew and English-speaking staff are a bonus.
3. Passenger limits (no overcrowding!)
If the boat looks too full, it probably is. Stick to companies that respect passenger capacity and don’t cram people onboard during peak periods.
4. Transparent booking & customer service
Can you book online? Do they answer questions quickly? Do they clearly state cancellation policies and safety info? Good communication = good operations.
Popular boat routes in Bali & what to expect
Planning to hop from Bali to Nusa Penida, Lembongan, the Gilis or even Lombok? Here’s a quick lowdown on the most common boat trips from Bali, including how long you’ll be on the water, and which harbour you’ll be launching from. Because yes, some ports are smoother than others.
1. Fast boat from Bali to Nusa Penida
Time on boat: Approximately 30 to 45 minutes
Departure ports: Sanur, Kusamba, Serangan
What to expect:
No more wading through ankle-deep water. Sanur now has a fancy new harbour terminal that feels more like a small airport. Think air-conditioned lounges, structured check-in, clean toilets, and floating jetties for dry boarding. It’s sleek, organised, and a huge upgrade from the old beach-launch chaos.
2. Fast boat from Bali to Nusa Lembongan
Time on boat: Approximately 30 to 45 minutes
Departure ports: Sanur, Serangan
What to expect:
From Sanur’s new harbour, boarding is efficient and dry via modern jetties. On Lembongan’s side, you may still step onto sand depending on the tide, but it’s generally fuss-free and scenic.
3. Fast boat from Bali to Gili Islands (Trawangan, Air, Meno)
Time on boat: Approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Departure ports: Padang Bai, Serangan
What to expect:
Padang Bai is more of a functional port. It’s busy, a bit hectic, and not as modern as Sanur Harbour. Expect tight boarding zones, port fees, and lots of back-and-forth with fast boat crews. Pro tip: pack snacks, go early, and double-check your boat name at the dock.
4. Fast boat from Bali to Lombok
Time on boat: Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours
Departure ports: Padang Bai, Serangan
What to expect:
Lombok-bound boats use the same Padang Bai port as the Gili services. If you’re departing from Serangan, it’s a bit more premium. Expect a less chaotic environment with smoother boarding and more space to move.
Honeycombers-Approved Fast Boat Companies in Bali
Forget the guesswork – we’ve tested the boats, waded through the ports, and picked the best Bali boat companies for each major route. Here’s who we trust to get you there safely (and comfortably):
1. Setia Fast Ferry – Best fast boat from Bali to Nusa Lembongan
Reliable and refined, Setia whisks you from Sanur’s upgraded harbour to Lembongan. We love the comfort of the air-conditioned waiting lounge, and the jetty boarding makes things seamless and dry.
2. Eka Jaya – Best fast boat from Bali to the Gili Islands
The big name in Bali fast boats, Eka Jaya runs sleek, modern vessels with A/C, toilets, and comfy seating. They depart from Padang Bai, and the early rides tend to be the smoothest.
3. BlueWater Express – Best fast boat from Bali to Lombok
A more premium choice, BlueWater Express runs from Serangan or Padang Bai to Lombok, often skipping the Gili stops for faster travel. Clean boats, friendly crew, and a solid safety record.
4. Kai Koa – Best speed boat for private transfers
Want to skip the crowds entirely? Kai Koa offers private speedboat charters to Penida, Lembongan and beyond. It’s perfect for small groups, families, or anyone craving a luxe, personalised journey. They launch from Sanur or Serangan with flexible schedules, high-end service and just a handful of seats for utmost comfort.
My Bali boat travel tips
Even if you book the best boat in Bali, the ocean can call the shots. These travel tips help minimise risk and maximise comfort:
1. Travel by boats in the morning
Mornings = calmer seas. Winds often pick up in the afternoon, so I always book the earliest crossing available.
2. Check swell and tide forecasts
Sites like Windy.com, MagicSeaweed, or even BMKG (Indonesia’s Meteorology Agency) show daily sea conditions. Avoid travel when swell exceeds 1.5 to 2 metres if you’re prone to seasickness or worried about choppy rides.
3. Avoid boat trips during big storms or high winds
Seems obvious, but we’ve seen boats depart in dodgy weather just to stay on schedule. Don’t board if it feels unsafe – most reputable operators will reschedule.
4. Pack smart
Bring motion sickness tablets, dry bags, and a change of clothes in case of spray. Bonus tip? Sit at the back of the boat where it’s more stable.
5. Listen to boat safety briefings
Yes, we know – no one listens. But seriously: take a second to know where the life jackets are and what to do if the boat hits trouble. Just in case.
FAQs: Is boat travel in Bali safe?
Q: Are fast boats in Bali safe?
A: They can be, as long as you choose a reputable company. Avoid cheap last-minute offers, check reviews, and monitor sea conditions.
Q: What’s the safest route for boat travel?
A: Shorter routes like Sanur to Nusa Penida or Lembongan are generally safer than longer trips to the Gilis, especially during rough seas.
Q: When is the best time to travel by boat in Bali?
A: Dry season (May to October) has the calmest mornings. Avoid travelling around Nyepi Laut (Ocean Silence Day) in Bali (that includes Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida), when all sea travel is paused for local ceremonies.
Final Take: Should you still travel by boat in Bali?
From our experience, we say yes – but only with the right prep and boat operator. The boat incidents in Indonesia are serious and worth paying attention to, but they don’t mean you should cancel your boat trips. We’ve crossed to Nusa Penida, Lembongan and the Gilis countless times, and when we travel with trusted companies and check swell and weather forecasts, it’s always smooth sailing.
The takeaway? Be selective, stay informed, and check the forecasts before travelling by boats in Bali.
Want more local tips for your Bali trip? Check out our insider guides to Bali’s epic beach clubs, and dreamy wellness escapes.