Lombok to the Gili Islands: Boats, Prices & Travel Guide

The Gili Islands are one of the most popular day trips and overnight destinations from Lombok, known for their white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and laid-back island atmosphere. Fortunately, getting there is relatively easy, with both affordable public boats and faster private transfers operating daily from North Lombok.

For most travellers, Bangsal Harbour is the main gateway to Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Whether you're travelling on a backpacker's budget or looking for the quickest and most comfortable option, here's everything you need to know before making the crossing.

One of the public slow boats that ferry passengers daily between Bangsal Harbour and the three Gili Islands. Photo by Hanna Lazar on Unsplash

How to Get from Lombok to Gili Islands?

There are three main ways to make the crossing: the public slow boat, the public fast boat, and private speedboats. Before choosing your option, here's what every traveller should know.

Public Slow Boat from Bangsal

The public slow boat is the most affordable way to travel from Lombok to the Gili Islands and is a popular choice for both locals and budget-conscious travellers. Departing from Bangsal Harbour, these boats provide a simple and inexpensive way to reach Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno.

Things to Know

• Departures operate from Bangsal Harbour, the main gateway to the Gili Islands.

• The ticket office is generally open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

• Boats do not follow a fixed timetable and usually depart once enough passengers have boarded.

• Sea conditions and demand may occasionally affect departure times.

Public Fast Boat (Best for Speed & Convenience)

For travellers looking for a quicker and more comfortable journey, public fast boats also operate from Bangsal Harbour. These larger vessels typically depart throughout the day and follow a circular route, stopping at Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan before returning to Lombok.

Things to Know

• Departures generally operate between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

• Fast boats stop at all three Gili Islands on a circular route.

• Approximate fare: IDR 85,000 per person.

• Crossing times are shorter than the public slow boat, making this a popular option for travellers who want to maximize their time on the islands.

Private Speedboat from Teluk Nare

Travellers seeking a more direct and comfortable option can arrange a private speedboat from Teluk Nare Harbour, located about 25 minutes from Senggigi and often preferred by private operators for its quieter setup. While Bangsal is the main public ferry port, Teluk Nare is the preferred choice for private speedboat services due to its better infrastructure and convenience. Private boats can be booked through your hotel or a reputable transfer service and are a good option for families or those with a lot of luggage.

Expect to pay between IDR 700,000 - IDR 1,000,000 for a private boat (return)

Private speedboats ready for departure at Teluk Nare Harbour, a faster and more direct alternative to the public boats at Bangsal

Planning Your Island Stay

Now that you know how to make the crossing, the only question left is which island to call home. Each of the three Gilis has its own distinct personality, and choosing the right one can shape your entire trip. Whether you're after lively beach bars, a balanced mix of comfort and calm, or total seclusion, there's an island that fits.