📖 Jump to a Category

🎫

Booking & Tickets

Q. How do I book Bali ferry tickets?

Booking Bali ferry tickets is simple. Visit the BaliGoat homepage, select your departure port (Sanur, Padang Bai, or Benoa), choose your destination (Gili Islands, Nusa Penida, or Lombok), pick your travel date and preferred departure time, then complete the checkout process. You can pay with credit card, PayPal, or bank transfer. Your e-ticket will be emailed to you instantly.

We work with all major fast boat operators including Eka Jaya, BlueWater Express, Rock Island, FreeBird Express, Scoot Fast Cruises, and others, so you get the best price and schedule options in one place. For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our How to Book Guide.

Q. Can I book on the day of travel?

Yes, same-day bookings are available for most Bali ferry routes, provided seats are still available. However, we strongly recommend booking at least 24 to 48 hours in advance, especially during peak season (July–August, December–January, and Nyepi holidays).

Same-day bookings may have limited departure time options, and some of the most popular morning departures can sell out by the afternoon before. If you need to book on the day, arrive at the port early or contact our WhatsApp support team for real-time availability.

Q. Do I get an e-ticket or paper ticket?

All bookings made through BaliGoat are issued as e-tickets. After completing your purchase, you will receive a PDF e-ticket via email containing your booking reference, departure details, operator name, and a QR code for scanning at the port.

Simply show the e-ticket on your phone (or bring a printed copy) at the check-in counter. No need to visit a physical ticket office — your smartphone is your ticket. Most operators accept digital tickets, but having a backup screenshot or printed copy is always a good idea in case of poor mobile signal at the port.

Q. Can I change my booking date or time?

Yes, date and time changes are allowed on most Bali fast boat tickets, subject to the operator's change policy. Typically:

  • 48+ hours before departure — Free of charge or small admin fee (Rp 10,000–25,000)
  • 24–48 hours before departure — Change fee of ~25% of ticket price
  • Day of departure — Generally not accepted, though some operators may accommodate schedule swaps at their discretion

To request a change, contact BaliGoat support via WhatsApp or email with your booking reference number, and we will handle it for you. See our Cancellation & Change Policy Guide for full details.

Q. What if I miss my boat?

If you miss your scheduled departure, the options available depend on the operator and ticket type. Some operators will allow you to transfer to the next available departure at no extra cost (space permitting), while others may charge a late-show fee equivalent to 50–100% of the ticket price.

In most cases, no-shows are non-refundable. If you realise you will be late, contact our support team immediately — we may be able to rebook you on a later departure for a reduced fee. Arriving at the port at least 30 minutes before departure is the best way to avoid missing your boat.

💳

Payment & Prices

Q. What payment methods are accepted?

BaliGoat accepts a wide range of payment methods to accommodate international travellers:

  • Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover
  • Digital Wallets: PayPal, GoPay, OVO
  • Local Transfers: BCA, Mandiri, BNI, BRI (Indonesian accounts)
  • QR Payments: QRIS (standard Indonesian QR code)

All payments are processed through secure, encrypted gateways. Your card details are never stored on our servers. If you prefer to pay in person, selected partners offer cash payments at their physical outlets, though online payment is recommended for guaranteed seat availability.

Q. Are prices displayed in IDR or USD?

All prices on BaliGoat are displayed in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) by default — the standard currency for all domestic ferry routes in Indonesia. However, you can toggle the display to see approximate prices in USD, EUR, AUD, GBP, SGD, JPY, KRW, and several other major currencies.

The exchange rate used is updated daily. Please note that the final transaction will be processed in IDR, so the amount shown in your chosen currency is an estimate. Your bank or payment provider may apply their own exchange rate and fees, which can differ slightly from the estimate shown.

Q. Do prices change during peak season?

Yes, Bali fast boat ticket prices typically increase during peak season. Peak periods include:

  • July–August — European summer holidays
  • December–January — Christmas and New Year's
  • March/April — Nyepi (Balinese Day of Silence) week
  • Easter holidays — Variable dates

During these times, prices can be 20–50% higher than low-season rates. The most popular routes — such as Padang Bai to Gili Trawangan — are the most affected. Booking well in advance is the best way to secure a lower price. BaliGoat also offers Flash Friday deals and occasional promo codes that can help offset seasonal increases.

Q. Are there discounts for groups or children?

Yes, discounts are available for both groups and children:

  • Infants (under 2 years): Travel for free (must sit on a parent's lap)
  • Children (2–11 years): Typically receive a 25–50% discount on the adult fare
  • Groups (10+ passengers): Usually receive a 10–20% discount on total fare

Infants and children must be declared at the time of booking. For large groups (20+), it is best to contact us via WhatsApp for a custom quote. Student and senior discounts are not commonly offered by fast boat operators in Bali.

Q. Is there a booking fee?

BaliGoat does not charge any hidden booking fees. The price you see on the search results page is the base ticket price. A small service fee (typically Rp 5,000–15,000 per ticket, depending on the route) is added at checkout to cover transaction processing and customer support costs.

This fee is clearly displayed before you complete your payment. There are no surprise charges — the total you see at checkout is exactly what you will pay. If you use a credit card issued outside Indonesia, your bank may add a foreign transaction fee (usually 1–3%), which is outside of our control.

🧳

Luggage

Q. How much luggage can I bring on the ferry?

Most Bali fast boat operators allow one piece of checked luggage (up to 20 kg) and one small carry-on bag (backpack or handbag) per passenger. Luggage exceeding 20 kg may incur an excess baggage fee of approximately Rp 20,000–50,000 per kg, depending on the operator.

Some operators, like Eka Jaya and BlueWater Express, have more generous allowances, while budget operators may be stricter. All luggage is tagged at check-in and stored in the luggage compartment. We recommend labelling your bags with your name and contact details. Valuables, medications, and electronics should always be carried in your hand luggage, not checked.

For more tips on packing, see our Ferry Packing Guide.

Q. Are surfboards and bicycles allowed?

Yes, both surfboards and bicycles are generally allowed on Bali fast boats, but extra fees apply:

  • Surfboards: Rp 50,000–150,000 per board depending on size and operator. A surfboard bag is strongly recommended for protection.
  • Bicycles: Rp 75,000–200,000. Treated as special luggage. E-bikes and cargo bikes may not be accepted due to size and battery restrictions.

It is essential to inform us at the time of booking if you are travelling with a surfboard or bicycle so we can confirm availability and ensure space is allocated. Last-minute requests at the port may be refused. See our Surfboard Transport Guide.

Q. Can I bring a pet on the ferry?

Yes, some Bali fast boat operators allow pets, but policies vary significantly. Pet-friendly operators typically require the animal to be in an approved carrier or crate that fits under the seat or in a designated pet area. A pet fee of Rp 50,000–100,000 is common.

You must provide a valid health certificate and up-to-date vaccination records, especially for travel to Lombok or the Gili Islands, which have stricter biosecurity regulations. Only small to medium-sized dogs and cats are generally accepted. Service animals are permitted on most routes at no extra charge, though advance notification is still required. Always check with us before booking if you plan to travel with a pet.

Q. Is luggage stored safely on the boat?

Yes, luggage is stored in a designated luggage compartment on the lower deck or rear of the boat. The compartment is secured during the crossing and staff monitor the area. However, we strongly recommend keeping valuables — passports, wallets, phones, cameras, laptops, jewellery — in your carry-on bag with you at your seat.

While incidents are rare, luggage compartments are not completely theft-proof, and the boat's motion can cause bags to shift. Use a TSA-approved lock on your checked bag for extra security. If you are travelling with expensive camera equipment or a drone, carry it in your hand luggage. BaliGoat is not liable for lost or damaged items in checked luggage.

Ports & Transport

Q. Which port should I depart from for the Gili Islands?

For the Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, Gili Meno), the most common departure port is Padang Bai in East Bali. Padang Bai is the main hub for fast boats heading to the Gilis and Lombok. Journey time from Padang Bai to the Gilis is approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on sea conditions.

If you are staying in the Sanur area, some operators also depart from Serangan or Benoa Harbour, though these trips are slightly longer. If you are in the Canggu or Seminyak area, Padang Bai is about a 1-hour drive east. We recommend Padang Bai for the widest selection of departure times and operators. See our Padang Bai to Gili Islands Guide.

Q. How early should I arrive at the port?

We recommend arriving at the departure port at least 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This allows enough time to check in, drop your luggage, receive your boarding pass, and make your way to the departure pier.

During peak season, we suggest arriving 60 minutes early — queues at check-in counters can be long, especially at Padang Bai and Sanur ports. If you have not pre-booked, arrive at least 1.5 hours early to secure a ticket. Some operators close check-in 15 minutes before departure and will not hold the boat for late arrivals.

Q. Is parking available at Padang Bai harbour?

Yes, parking is available at Padang Bai harbour. There is a large, secure parking lot located just outside the main terminal. The official parking rate is approximately:

  • Car: Rp 5,000–10,000 per day
  • Scooter: Rp 2,000–5,000 per day

Parking attendants are on site, and the lot is monitored 24 hours. For longer stays (more than a few days), negotiate a weekly rate at the parking office. We recommend taking a photo of where you parked, as the lot can get very busy. Alternatively, many hotels in the area offer park-and-stay packages that include overnight parking and a shuttle to the port.

Q. How do I get from the airport to the port?

From Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to the main departure ports:

  • Padang Bai (~50 km / 1 hour): Blue Bird taxi Rp 250,000–350,000, Gojek/Grab Rp 200,000–300,000, or private transfer through BaliGoat.
  • Sanur Harbour (~15 km / 30 min): Taxi Rp 100,000–150,000.
  • Benoa Harbour (~10 km / 25 min): Taxi Rp 80,000–120,000.

Public buses (Trans Sarbagita) run from the airport to Sanur but require a transfer. Most travellers prefer the convenience of a taxi or pre-booked transfer, especially with luggage. For all the options, read our Airport to Port Transfer Guide.

Q. Is there a departure tax?

No, there is no departure tax for domestic fast boat travel from Bali to the Gili Islands, Nusa Penida, or Lombok. The departure tax that was previously applied at Indonesian airports and some seaports has been incorporated into the ticket price for most operators. The price you see on BaliGoat includes all government taxes and fees.

However, some smaller ports may charge a small terminal fee (typically Rp 5,000–15,000 per person) payable in cash at the gate. Always carry some small-denomination Indonesian Rupiah for such incidental fees. International departures from Bali (such as international cruise ships) do have a departure tax, but this does not apply to domestic fast boat services.

🚢

Routes & Schedules

Q. How long is the ferry from Bali to the Gili Islands?

The ferry journey from Bali to the Gili Islands takes approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on your departure port and sea conditions:

  • Padang Bai → Gili Trawangan: 1.5–2 hours
  • Padang Bai → Gili Air / Gili Meno: 1 hr 15 min – 1 hr 45 min
  • Sanur/Benoa → Gili Islands: 2–2.5 hours (longer route around southern Bali)

Sea conditions play a big role — the crossing can be up to 30 minutes longer during the wet season (November–March) when the seas are rougher. For a complete overview, read our Bali to Gili Islands Guide.

Q. How long is the ferry to Nusa Penida?

The ferry from Bali to Nusa Penida is the shortest crossing of the major routes, taking just 30 to 45 minutes from Sanur Harbour. Several high-speed boats operate this route, with departures running every 30–60 minutes from early morning (around 6:30 AM) until late afternoon (around 4:30 PM).

Sanur is the primary departure point for Nusa Penida. Some operators also depart from Padang Bai, which takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. The crossing can be choppy, as the Badung Strait between Bali and Nusa Penida is known for strong currents. If you are prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand, even for this short trip. See our Bali to Nusa Penida Guide.

Q. How long is the ferry from Bali to Lombok?

The fast boat journey from Bali to Lombok typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on departure point and destination harbour in Lombok:

  • Padang Bai → Bangsal Harbour (for Gilis & North Lombok): 1.5–2 hours
  • Padang Bai → Senggigi / Lembar (for South Lombok): 2–2.5 hours
  • Sanur/Benoa → Lombok: 2–3 hours

If you are heading to Kuta Lombok or the Mandalika area, docking at Lembar Harbour is most convenient. For those heading further east, consider combining a fast boat to Bangsal with a land transfer. For a detailed route comparison, see our Bali to Lombok Guide.

Q. Are there night ferries from Bali?

No, there are no night-time fast boat services from Bali to the Gili Islands, Nusa Penida, or Lombok. Fast boats are daytime operations only, with the first departures usually around 6:00–7:00 AM and the last departures around 3:00–5:00 PM depending on the route.

After sunset, the risk of rough seas and the difficulty of navigating around reefs and shallows makes night crossings unsafe for high-speed vessels. If you need to travel after dark, your options are:

  • Overnight car ferry — Crosses the Lombok Strait in 4–6 hours, runs 24 hours, much cheaper but less comfortable.
  • Domestic flight — Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS) to Lombok International Airport (LOP), ~30 minutes flight time.
🛡️

Safety & Kids

Q. Are Bali fast boats safe?

Bali fast boats are generally safe, especially when you travel with reputable operators. The industry has improved significantly over the past decade, with stricter safety regulations enforced by the Indonesian Ministry of Transportation. All operators listed on BaliGoat are licensed, insured, and undergo regular safety inspections.

Boats are equipped with life jackets, emergency rafts, fire extinguishers, and marine radios. We only work with established companies like Eka Jaya, BlueWater Express, Rock Island, FreeBird Express, and others with strong safety records.

To stay safe: choose a reputable operator, follow the crew's safety briefing, wear a life jacket if offered, and avoid travelling in severe weather conditions. For a full breakdown of safety practices, see our Fast Boat Safety Tips Guide.

Q. Is it safe for children to travel on fast boats?

Yes, it is generally safe for children to travel on Bali fast boats, but parents should take some precautions:

  • Under 2 years: Travel free, sit on parent's lap with a life jacket on
  • Aged 2–12: Should have their own seat and wear a life jacket for the duration

Some operators provide children's life jackets, but it is wise to confirm at check-in. The journey can be bumpy, especially during the wet season (November–March), so seasickness medication formulated for children is recommended — consult a pharmacist before departure. Bring snacks, water, and entertainment for the journey.

If you are concerned about seasickness, choose an early morning departure when the seas are typically calmest, and book a seat in the middle of the boat where motion is least felt.

Q. What happens if there is bad weather?

If bad weather is forecast, the boat operator makes the final decision on whether to sail or cancel. Safety is always the top priority. If conditions are deemed unsafe — high waves, strong winds, or storms — the departure may be delayed or cancelled entirely.

In the event of a weather-related cancellation, you have two options:

  • Free transfer to the next available departure (usually the next day)
  • Full refund

Bad weather is most common during the wet season (November–March), particularly in December and January. During these months, afternoon departures are more likely to be affected than morning ones. If the weather looks questionable, book an early morning departure and stay in touch with our support team for updates. Operators will not sail if doing so would compromise passenger safety, and we fully endorse this policy.

📚 BaliGoat Travel Guides

Detailed guides to help you plan every part of your trip.

❓ Still have questions?

Our team is available 24/7 to help with your booking. Chat with us on WhatsApp for instant answers.

💬 Chat on WhatsApp