Boat trips from Bali — your options
Bali is surrounded by remarkably accessible island destinations. Within 30–90 minutes by fast boat you can be on Nusa Penida (dramatic cliffs and manta rays), Nusa Lembongan (calm reefs and mangrove channels), or heading north to the pristine waters around Menjangan Island in West Bali National Park. Boat trips are a core part of the Bali experience and the logistics are straightforward once you know the key departure points and operators.
The main departure hub for Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan is Sanur Beach — multiple operators run daily fast boats from 7:30am onward. For Menjangan Island, charters depart from Labuhan Lalang on the northwest coast (3 hours from Canggu by car) or from Serangan Marina south of Denpasar for private charters. Amed is the base for snorkel and fishing boat trips along the east coast.
Fast boats (speedboats) carry 8–30 passengers and cover the Sanur–Nusa Penida crossing in 30–45 minutes. Slow public ferries cover the same route in 60–90 minutes at lower cost. For a full day on the water, combination trips to Nusa Penida + Nusa Lembongan are popular — visiting 3–4 snorkel stops between the two islands before returning to Sanur in the afternoon.
Private boat charters are available for groups who want full flexibility on timing, route and activities. A full-day private speedboat charter from Sanur for 6–8 people typically costs Rp 3,500,000–6,000,000 depending on the boat size and islands visited.
Main boat trip destinations
Nusa Penida — dramatic scenery and marine life
Kelingking Beach (the T-rex cliff), Angel's Billabong, Broken Beach and Diamond Beach make Nusa Penida the most visually spectacular destination accessible from Bali by boat. The island has no significant surf on the north coast, making landing easy. Combine with snorkeling at Manta Point (manta rays) or Crystal Bay. Day trip from Sanur: Rp 350,000–600,000 per person including snorkel stops.
Nusa Lembongan — calm water and mangroves
Smaller, calmer and more reef-friendly than Penida, Lembongan is perfect for snorkeling around the Mushroom Bay and Mangrove Point areas. Sea turtle encounters are very common. The island has a relaxed village feel, excellent accommodation for overnight stays and the famous Yellow Bridge connecting it to Nusa Ceningan. Day trip from Sanur: Rp 450,000–700,000.
Menjangan Island — best snorkeling in Bali
Menjangan is a small uninhabited island inside West Bali National Park with the healthiest coral reef in Bali — wall dives dropping to 60+ metres, visibility of 25–35 metres and pristine hard coral formations. Accessible only by boat from Labuhan Lalang (3 hours from Canggu). Day trip including park fee and guide: Rp 900,000–1,400,000.
Amed area — reef snorkeling and fishing
The volcanic black-sand bays of Amed, Jemeluk and Lipah in east Bali offer excellent local boat trips — reef snorkeling directly over the Japanese wreck, glass-bottom boat rides above the coral gardens and local fishing trips at sunset. Boat hire directly from beach fishermen: Rp 200,000–400,000 for 1–2 hours.
Pricing
| Trip | IDR | USD equiv. | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sanur–Nusa Penida fast boat (1-way) | Rp 200,000 – 350,000 | $13 – $22 | Schedule service, 30–45 min |
| Nusa Penida snorkel day trip | Rp 450,000 – 700,000 | $28 – $44 | Incl. fast boat + 3 snorkel spots |
| Nusa Lembongan day trip | Rp 500,000 – 800,000 | $31 – $50 | Incl. snorkeling, mangrove tour |
| Penida + Lembongan combo | Rp 650,000 – 950,000 | $41 – $59 | Full day, 4–5 stops |
| Menjangan day trip | Rp 900,000 – 1,400,000 | $56 – $88 | Park fee + guide + boat |
| Private charter (full day, 6 pax) | Rp 3,500,000 – 6,000,000 | $219 – $375 | Custom route, full flexibility |
What is typically included
- ✓Return fast boat transfer (Sanur to Nusa Penida/Lembongan)
- ✓Snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, snorkel, life jacket)
- ✓Boat guide or captain for snorkel stops
- ✓Lunch box or meal at a local warung (on full-day combination trips)
- ✓National park entry permit where applicable (Menjangan)
- ✓Pick-up from Sanur area accommodation (some operators)
What to bring
- →Reef-safe sunscreen (non-nano zinc oxide)
- →Rash guard or wetsuit top — sun protection on the water is intense
- →Anti-seasickness tablets (take 1 hour before fast boat departure)
- →Waterproof bag or case for phone and valuables
- →Underwater camera
- →Towel and change of clothes
- →Cash (IDR) for local food and drinks at island stops
Best season
April to October is the calmest season for boat trips. The Bali Strait (Sanur to Nusa Penida) can be rough in the wet season (November–March) when swells from the south increase — crossings are still made but are less comfortable, and fast boats occasionally cancel in very rough conditions. December to February is the most unpredictable period for sea crossings.
The Menjangan crossing from Labuhan Lalang is more protected and more consistent year-round. Amed coastal boat trips are also relatively sheltered and can be done year-round.
Safety considerations
Seasickness: The Sanur–Nusa Penida crossing is the most commonly rough sea crossing in Bali — 4–6 foot swells are not unusual. Take Dramamine or ginger tablets 1 hour before departure if you have any tendency toward motion sickness.
Life jacket checks: All passengers should have a life jacket on fast boats. Check that yours fits before departure. Children should have a correctly sized child life jacket — confirm this when booking.
Operator reliability: Some fast boat operators cancel departures with little notice if their boat is not full. Book with established operators and get a mobile number for the captain in case of cancellation.
Currents at snorkel stops: Nusa Penida's open-ocean sites have strong thermocline currents. Stay with your guide. If you are not a strong swimmer, tell the boat captain before entering the water.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Canggu or Ubud to the Sanur boat pier?
By private car or Grab: approximately 35–45 minutes from Canggu or Ubud to Sanur. Most day-trip operators include a pick-up service from Ubud, Canggu and Seminyak area hotels. Otherwise take Grab to the Sanur Beach Market boat pier.
Is it better to do a day trip to Nusa Penida or stay overnight?
Day trips to Nusa Penida are very popular but the island deserves at least one night — you get to explore Kelingking at sunset rather than midday, and the west coast viewpoints without tour groups. Two nights gives you time for the east side beaches (Diamond, Atuh) as well.
Can I buy fast boat tickets at the pier on the day?
Yes, for scheduled routes like Sanur–Penida. Tickets can be purchased at the pier from 7am. In July–August, boats fill by 8:30am on busy days so booking ahead by WhatsApp the day before is safer.
Is the crossing to Nusa Penida rough?
It can be. In the dry season the sea is typically calm. In the wet season (November–March), the crossing can be very rough — waves to 5–6 feet are not uncommon. Most people manage without severe seasickness with medication.
What is the difference between a fast boat and a slow ferry?
Fast boats (speedboats): 30–45 min, Rp 200,000–350,000, small and can be bumpy in rough seas. Slow public ferries: 60–90 min, Rp 60,000–80,000, larger and more stable but very basic. Fast boats are recommended for comfort.
Can children do the boat trip to Nusa Penida?
Yes. Children of all ages can make the crossing. In calm conditions it is fine for babies and toddlers. In rough sea conditions (wet season), young children can be distressed by the motion. Choose the calmest day of the week based on the weather forecast.
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