Dreaming of swimming with turtles by day and enjoying beach parties by night? Gili Trawangan (Gili T) is the place to be. But if you are currently in Bali, you might be wondering: What is the best way to get there?
Unlike Nusa Penida which is close by, Gili Trawangan is further away (near Lombok). Taking a slow ferry can take up to 5 hours! Who wants to waste holiday time doing that?
The smartest choice for 90% of travelers is taking a Fast Boat. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about crossing the sea from Bali to the Gili Islands safely and quickly in 2026.
Where Do Fast Boats Depart from in Bali?
To get to Gili Trawangan, you generally have two main departure options. Choosing the right one depends on where you are staying in Bali:
- Padang Bai Harbor (Most Popular & Fastest)
- Best for: Travelers staying in Ubud, Candidasa, or those who want the cheapest ticket price.
- Duration: Approx. 1.5 – 2 hours.
- Why choose this: It is the shortest distance by sea to the Gilis, meaning less time on the waves.
- Sanur Harbor (Matahari Terbit)
- Best for: Travelers staying in Kuta, Seminyak, or Canggu.
- Duration: Approx. 2.5 – 3 hours (often stops at Nusa Lembongan first).
- Note: Slightly more expensive than Padang Bai, but saves you the long drive to the east of Bali.
⚠️ Traveler Alert: Buying tickets directly at the harbor can be chaotic. “Scalpers” often inflate prices for tourists. To guarantee a fair price and a reserved seat, book online in advance.
👉 Compare Prices: Padang Bai vs. Sanur Departures Here
2026 Fast Boat Schedules: Bali to Gili Trawangan
Boats generally run in the morning to avoid the choppier waves in the afternoon. Here is the typical schedule available on Fastboathub.com:
- Morning Trip (09:00 AM – 09:30 AM): This is the most popular time. You will arrive in Gili T just in time for lunch and hotel check-in.
- Afternoon Trip (13:00 PM): Available from select operators like Eka Jaya or Wahana Virendra. Good if you prefer a slow morning in Bali.
Note: Schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions. Always check real-time availability on our booking engine.
How Much Does a Ticket Cost?
Prices fluctuate based on the season (High Season: July-August & December). Booking through Fastboathub.com ensures you get the official fixed rate, with no hidden haggling.
- One Way: Starts from USD $[Insert Price] / IDR [Insert Price]
- Return (Round Trip): Best Value! Starts from USD $[Insert Price]
What is included? ✅ High-speed vessel with safety equipment. ✅ Insurance coverage. ✅ Luggage allowance (usually up to 25kg). ✅ Instant E-Ticket (Eco-friendly, no printing needed).
👉 Check Today’s Promo Rates for Gili Trawangan
What Happens When You Arrive in Gili T?
Welcome to paradise! The fast boat will dock at the main jetty in Gili Trawangan.
Important Fact: There are NO motorized vehicles on Gili T. No cars, no Grab, no Gojek. To get to your hotel, you have two choices:
- Walk: The island is small, and many hotels are within walking distance of the harbor.
- Cidomo (Horse Cart): If you have heavy luggage, hire a local horse cart. Bargain the price before you hop on!
FAQ: Common Questions from Our Customers
1. Is the boat ride bumpy? The Lombok Strait can get wavy. If you suffer from seasickness, we recommend taking a motion sickness pill 30 minutes before departure. We only partner with large, stable fast boats to minimize discomfort.
2. Can I bring my surfboard? Yes! Most operators allow surfboards. Some may charge a small extra handling fee, while others include it for free. Check the details on our booking page.
3. Do I need to print my ticket? No. At Fastboathub, we are fully digital. Just show the E-Ticket on your phone to the boat staff at check-in.
Ready for Island Life?
Don’t leave your transport to the last minute. The Gili Islands are incredibly popular, and boats fill up fast during peak season.
Secure your seat now, skip the stress at the harbor, and get ready for the ultimate island getaway.