Bali is an island renowned for its beauty and cultural heritage, with stunning beaches, picturesque mountains, great restaurants and great diving. It’s no wonder this Indonesian island is such a popular travel destination. As Bali’s popularity grew, so did other Lesser Sunda Islands such as Nusa Lembongan. It is part of the three islands of the Nusa Penida district, collectively known as the Nusa Islands. The travel industry has grown from humble beginnings and now offers charming boutique hotels. Nusa Lembongan is popular with tourists looking to enjoy beautiful coral reefs and white sand beaches. The atmosphere is calmer than in Bali, making it an ideal place for a short or long stay. Getting from Bali to Nusa Lembongan is quick and easy thanks to the variety of transport options available.
Travel options from Bali to Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Lembongan is located approximately 25 kilometers east of the southern tip of Bali, making it a short distance between the two islands.
Since Nusa Lembongan does not have an airport, it can only be reached by water transport. There are various options for sea travel, including ferries and speedboats. The fastest journey from Bali to Nusa Lembongan takes only 30 minutes.
It is worth knowing that ships to and from Nusa Lembongan do not use the traditional ferry port or pier. Boats arrive and depart directly from the beach. The boats come as close to shore as possible, but passengers must cross the water to get on and off the boat. For some it may be an interesting experience, but for people with mobility problems it is a challenge. Boat staff are always available to assist, but passengers must be able to physically wade through the water and climb several steps onto the boat. Even people without mobility problems may have difficulty if the sea is rough. It is important to take precautions with valuables and important belongings so as not to get them wet if they fall or are splashed by large waves.
Ferries from Bali to Nusa Lembongan
For the budget conscious, the most economical option is to take ferries from Bali to Nusa Lembongan. However, this option means sacrificing speed and comfort. The public ferry is the cheapest alternative; The crossing takes about 90 minutes. The boat is a wooden sloop that often carries more passengers than allowed, which poses a safety risk. For this reason, we do not recommend this Bali to Nusa Lembongan ferry for families. If you are young and looking for adventure, this may be a good option!
Although the ferry from Bali to Nusa Lembongan operates every day, its reliability is not high. This can be a problem if you need to stick to a specific schedule, so check the exact departure times and dates before choosing a public boat. Tickets can be purchased in Sanur, Bali, at the ticket office at the end of Jalan Hang Tuah.
Perama also offers a slower ferry option. This company has a good reputation and offers tickets at an average price: more expensive than the public ferry, but cheaper than speedboats. Plus, if you’re staying near Sanur, your ticket price includes hotel pickup, adding to the convenience and value. The Perama ferry takes approximately 90 minutes, which is the same time as a public ferry.
From Bali to Nusa Lembongan by speedboat
If you don’t mind investing a little more, the fastest and most efficient option is to travel by speedboat from Bali to Nusa Lembongan. This service is offered by several companies, which translates into numerous daily trips. The great advantage of motor boats is that they significantly shorten the journey time, taking only 30 to 35 minutes.
Popular companies include Scoot Fast Cruise and Rocky Fast Cruise, but there are many other options available offering a wide range of timetables. These two companies are popular because they operate larger boats than their competitors, which tends to make for a more stable and possibly safer trip. However, their rates are usually higher. If you want to save, consider other companies. Both Scoot and Rocky offer a hotel pickup service, which you can arrange if you book tickets directly with the company at least one day in advance.
You can purchase tickets for most speedboats on the same day, but if you prefer to plan ahead, you can also book online. Visit the 12Go website for more information on schedules and prices and to book tickets. They have tickets available for many speedboats from Bali to Nusa Lembongan. Additionally, you can read reviews from other passengers to make a more informed decision about your trip.
The starting point for Bali is usually the port on Sanur Beach. Although it looks like a conventional port, as already mentioned, the boats leave directly from the beach, so you will have to cross the water to board. There are several possible arrival points in Nusa Lembongan. Most take you to the island’s tourist area, Jungut Batu, in the northwest, but some reach Mushroom Bay, located in the southwest of the island.
Whether you prefer to travel from Bali to Nusa Lembongan by ferry or speedboat, we always advise caution if weather conditions appear unfavorable. The route can be bumpy even in the best conditions. If the weather is bad, it may be wiser to wait until it improves, especially if you are prone to seasickness. If you are looking for a more stable ride, we highly recommend the speedboats operated by Scoot and Rocky. However, if you prefer a cheaper option and don’t mind a longer journey, choose a public ferry.
Are you planning to leave Bali? Don’t miss our travel guide From Bali to the Gili IslandsWith Denpasar to Ubud and From Bali to Nusa Penida.
How long is the ferry from Bali to Nusa Lembongan?
Nusa Lembongan is located about 25 kilometers east of the southern tip of Bali, so the distance between the two islands is relatively short. The ferry ride from Bali to Nusa Lembongan takes approximately 90 minutes. If you prefer a faster option, you can choose a speedboat, which reduces the journey time to approximately 30 minutes. However, this journey can be a bit bumpy due to the waves. Whichever you choose, it will be an unforgettable experience!
Is it possible to take a day trip to Nusa Lembongan from Bali?
Yes, you can take a day trip from Bali to Nusa Lembongan. Fast boats will take you there in just 30 minutes. However, we suggest you stay at least a few days to fully enjoy everything these tropical islands have to offer.
How long does the ferry from Sanur to Nusa Lembongan take?
The ferry ride from Bali to Nusa Lembongan takes approximately 90 minutes. If you’re looking for a faster option, a speedboat is a great alternative. The journey only takes about 30 minutes and a speedboat ticket costs about 8 euros.
How much does a speedboat trip from Bali to Nusa Lembongan cost?
A speedboat trip from Bali to Nusa Lembongan costs around IDR 150,000, which is the equivalent of around 10 euros. There is a wide range of ferry companies to choose from. Ferry tickets can be purchased via online booking.