Lombok is Bali's quieter, more rugged neighbor — home to Mount Rinjani, pristine beaches, and authentic culture. Getting there by fast boat takes just 2-2.5 hours and offers a scenic island-hopping alternative to flying. Here's everything you need to know.
Your Options: Fast Boat vs Flight vs Ferry
| Method | Duration | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fast Boat | 2-2.5 hours | IDR 400k-700k | Most travelers, scenic route |
| Flight | 30 min (+ airport time) | IDR 500k-1.5M | Time-pressed travelers |
| Public Ferry | 4-5 hours | IDR 50k | Budget, bringing vehicle |
Our take: Fast boats hit the sweet spot — affordable, scenic, and door-to-destination. Flights add airport hassle on both ends.
Fast Boat Routes to Lombok
Route 1: Serangan → Senggigi
The most popular route. Arrives directly in Senggigi, Lombok's main tourist beach town.
Duration: 2-2.5 hours
Operators: Rocky Fast Cruise, Maruti
Price: IDR 450,000-600,000
Route 2: Padang Bai → Bangsal
Arrives at Bangsal Harbor, the departure point for Gili Islands. Good if continuing to Gili.
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Operators: EkaJaya, Scoot
Price: IDR 350,000-500,000
Route 3: Sanur → Lombok
Some boats go directly to Lombok (Senggigi or Teluk Nare) from Sanur.
Duration: 2-2.5 hours
Operators: Various
Price: IDR 400,000-600,000
Where to Arrive in Lombok
Senggigi
Lombok's main beach resort area. Good for beaches, nightlife, and as a base for exploring.
Best for: Beach lovers, first-time visitors
Bangsal Harbor
Basic harbor used for Gili Island connections. Not a destination itself — just transit.
Best for: Continuing to Gili Islands, budget travelers
Teluk Nare / Teluk Kodek
Quieter harbors near Bangsal. Some premium boats use these for less crowded arrival.
From Lombok to...
Once in Lombok, here's how to reach popular destinations:
| Destination | From Senggigi | From Bangsal |
|---|---|---|
| Kuta Lombok | 2-2.5 hours | 2.5-3 hours |
| Mataram (city) | 30 min | 45 min |
| Gili Islands | 1 hour (boat) | 20 min (boat) |
| Mt Rinjani base | 2 hours | 2 hours |
The Public Ferry Alternative
For budget travelers or those bringing a motorbike/car:
| Route | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Padang Bai → Lembar (Lombok) | 4-5 hours | IDR 46,000 (foot passenger) |
| Motorbike | — | IDR 120,000 |
| Car | — | IDR 500,000+ |
Note: Ferries run 24 hours but are basic. Bring snacks, water, and patience. Lembar is 1.5 hours south of Senggigi.
Best Operators
For Reliability: EkaJaya
Established company with a solid safety record. Larger boats mean more stability. Routes from multiple harbors.
For Comfort: Rocky Fast Cruise
Newer boats with good AC, comfortable seating. Direct Serangan-Senggigi route.
For Budget: Scoot
Basic but functional. Lower prices but older boats. Gets the job done.
Tips for the Crossing
- 💊 Seasickness: The Lombok Strait can be rough. Take medication before boarding.
- 🧥 Bring a jacket: AC can be freezing on some boats.
- 💵 Carry cash: ATMs in Lombok can be unreliable.
- 📱 Download offline maps: Data can be spotty in rural Lombok.
- 🚐 Book onward transport: Have your hotel or Sailtix arrange pickup.
Lombok Itinerary Ideas
3 Days Lombok
- Day 1: Arrive Senggigi, beach sunset
- Day 2: South Lombok (Kuta, Tanjung Aan, Mawun Beach)
- Day 3: Waterfalls or Sasak villages, depart
5 Days Lombok + Rinjani
- Days 1-2: Senggigi area
- Days 3-4: Mt Rinjani trek
- Day 5: Recovery, return to Bali
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the fast boat safe?
Yes, licensed operators maintain their boats and carry safety equipment. The Lombok Strait is well-traveled. Avoid very cheap, unknown operators.
Can I stop at Gili Islands on the way?
Many boats stop at one or more Gili Islands en route. Check with your operator if you want a direct route.
Is Lombok worth visiting?
Absolutely. Lombok offers what Bali had 20 years ago — less development, authentic culture, and incredible nature. Kuta Lombok is nothing like Kuta Bali!
Popular Routes to Lombok
Book Bali to Lombok
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