Comparison overview
Looking for the best ferry from Bali? The right choice depends on your destination. Sanur is best for Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, Padang Bai is best for Gili Islands and Lombok, Serangan is useful for premium South Bali departures, and Gilimanuk is the correct ferry route to Java. This guide compares Bali's best fast boats, public ferries, departure ports, and route choices for 2026.
Which Bali ferry to take in 2026 - fast boats vs the public ferry to Gili, Lombok, Nusa Penida & Lembongan, compared on price, time and comfort.
This guide compares the published options using the factors shown below. Rankings are a planning aid: always confirm the live departure time, route, fare, baggage conditions and vessel details for your chosen travel date before purchasing a ticket.
How the options were compared
- Route Coverage
- Departure Harbor
- Price & Value
- Comfort & Safety
- Travel Time
These criteria help separate operators that may serve similar routes but differ in speed, comfort, price positioning, schedule coverage or the type of passenger experience they provide.
Ranked options
#1 BlueWater Express
Best Premium (Gili/Lombok)
BlueWater Express is the best overall pick for travelers who prioritize reliability, comfort, and premium service over the lowest ticket price. Offers departures from Serangan (best for South Bali) and Padang Bai. Ideal for Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Lombok.
#2 Eka Jaya
Best Value (Gili/Lombok)
Eka Jaya is one of the most established fast boat names for Bali to Gili and Lombok routes. Departing from Padang Bai, it offers a strong balance between price, frequency, and operator recognition. A great choice for backpackers and standard travelers.
#3 Semaya One
Best Budget (Gili/Lombok)
Semaya One and other selected Padang Bai operators are strong options for budget travelers heading to the Gili Islands or Lombok. Padang Bai has strong competition, making it the best port to find lower fares.
#4 Arjuna Fast Cruise
Best for Nusa Penida
Sanur is the main practical departure point for Nusa Penida day trips and short stays. Arjuna Fast Cruise offers direct 45-minute crossings from Sanur to Penida, making it a reliable choice for this route.
#5 Arthamas Express
Best for Nusa Lembongan
For travelers specifically visiting Nusa Lembongan, Arthamas Express is an excellent choice. It offers short 30-minute crossings from Sanur directly to Jungut Batu, with options for bundled island tours and snorkeling.
#6 ASDP Public Ferry
Best Public Ferry (Vehicles)
For travelers bringing a car, motorbike, or seeking the absolute lowest overland cost, the ASDP Padang Bai to Lembar public ferry is the correct choice for Lombok. For Java, use the Gilimanuk to Ketapang crossing. These are slow vehicle ferries, not tourist fast boats.
Check the live trip before booking
Schedules and prices can change by season, sailing date and port conditions. Compare the actual departure and arrival harbors, estimated journey time, transfer inclusions and current seat availability. A highly ranked operator is only useful when its live sailing matches your itinerary.
Arrive within the check-in window shown on the ticket, keep identification and booking details available, and allow extra time for harbor queues. If weather or port instructions affect a sailing, follow the operator's current check-in guidance.