The crossing from Bali to Lombok is one of the most popular ferry journeys in Indonesia. Whether you are heading to the white-sand beaches of the Gilis, the surf breaks of Kuta Lombok, or the cultural heart of Mataram, getting across the Lombok Strait is straightforward — provided you choose the right boat for your budget and schedule.
This guide covers every route from Bali to Lombok in 2026: the cheap car ferries, the fast boats from Padang Bai, departures from Serangan, and how to combine the trip with the Gili Islands as a stopover. Use the route comparison below to find your best option, then read on for detailed advice on tickets, luggage limits, and what to expect at sea.
| Route | Duration | Price (IDR) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Padang Bai → Lembar (car ferry) | 3–5 hours | 50K–100K | Budget travellers, vehicles |
| Padang Bai → Senggigi (fast boat) | 1.5–2 hours | 350K–500K | Speed & comfort |
| Serangan → Lombok (fast boat) | 1.5–2.5 hours | 400K–600K | South Bali convenience |
| Bali → Gili Islands → Lombok | 2–3 hours (to Gili) | 350K–600K | Multi-stop itinerary |
1. Padang Bai to Lembar — The Main Car Ferry
The public car ferry between Padang Bai (east Bali) and Lembar (southwest Lombok) is the cheapest way to cross the Lombok Strait. It is operated by ASDP Indonesia Ferry, the state-run ferry company, and runs multiple departures daily — roughly every hour during daytime and every two hours overnight.
Duration and Schedule
The crossing takes anywhere from 3 to 5 hours depending on weather, currents, and how quickly the vessel loads and unloads. In calm conditions expect around 3.5 hours; during the wet season (November to March) it can stretch closer to 5 hours. First departures typically leave Padang Bai around 5:30 AM and the last ferry departs around 10:00 PM.
Prices and Tickets
Foot passenger tickets cost approximately 50,000–70,000 IDR (about $3–$5 USD). Bringing a motorbike adds around 50,000 IDR, and a car costs 200,000–350,000 IDR depending on size. Tickets are bought at the port counter — no advance booking is needed for foot passengers, though vehicle tickets can sell out during holidays like Idul Fitri or Christmas.
Arriving at Lembar Port
Lembar is about 30 km southwest of Mataram, Lombok's capital. From the port you can catch a public bemo (minibus) or a Grab/Gojek ride to Mataram (40 minutes, ~80,000 IDR) or Senggigi (50 minutes, ~120,000 IDR). Many travellers also pre-arrange a hotel transfer.
2. Fast Boats from Padang Bai to Senggigi
If your budget allows, the fast boat from Padang Bai to Senggigi is the most popular option for travellers. These modern, air-conditioned vessels cut the travel time to just 1.5 to 2 hours and arrive right on Lombok's main tourist strip in Senggigi.
Operators and Pricing
Major operators on this route include Eka Jaya, Blue Water Express, and Gili Gili Fast Boat. Prices range from 350,000 to 500,000 IDR per person one-way depending on the season and how far in advance you book. Most operators include hotel pickup from major areas in south and central Bali (Seminyak, Kuta, Sanur, Ubud) in the ticket price.
Departure and Arrival
Fast boats depart Padang Bai between 7:00 AM and 2:00 PM, with the busiest morning wave around 8:00–9:00 AM. You need to check in at the Padang Bai fast-boat terminal at least 45 minutes before departure. Arrival is at Senggigi's public beach or a dedicated jetty — most hotels in Senggigi are a short taxi ride away.
For a complete breakdown of the port layout, facilities, and directions, see our Padang Bai Port Guide.
3. Serangan to Lombok Routes
If you are staying in south Bali — areas like Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, or Uluwatu — departing from Serangan Harbour (south of Sanur) can save you up to an hour of transfer time compared to going all the way east to Padang Bai.
Several fast-boat operators run direct services from Serangan to Lombok. Most boats head to Tanjung (north Lombok) or onward to the Gili Islands rather than directly to Senggigi, though some offer a Senggigi drop-off. Popular operators include Scarlet Fast Boat, Semaya One, and Sugriwa Express.
Prices and Duration
Serangan departures cost a little more than Padang Bai — expect 400,000–600,000 IDR per person — reflecting the convenience factor. Travel time is similar at 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the destination port. Check-in at Serangan is generally calmer and less chaotic than Padang Bai, with proper waiting areas and cafes.
When to Choose Serangan
Serangan is the best choice if: (a) you are staying in southern Bali, (b) you want to skip the Padang Bai crowds, or (c) you are heading directly to north Lombok or the Gilis. If you are on a tight budget, Padang Bai remains the cheaper option.
4. Lombok Destinations — Senggigi, Kuta Lombok & Mataram
Once you arrive in Lombok, three main hubs welcome travellers. Each offers a very different experience:
Senggigi
The most popular tourist base on Lombok's west coast, Senggigi is where most fast boats drop you off. It offers a strip of hotels, restaurants, bars, and sunset viewpoints. It is a great launching point for day trips to the Gilis, snorkelling at the Gili Nanggu group, or heading up to Mount Rinjani trailheads. Most travellers spend 2–3 nights here before moving on.
Kuta Lombok (Mandalaika)
Not to be confused with Kuta Bali — this Kuta lies on Lombok's south coast and is famous for world-class surf breaks (Mawi, Gerupuk, Desert Point) and the stunning Mandalika International Circuit, home to MotoGP. From the fast-boat ports (Senggigi or Lembar), Kuta Lombok is about a 1.5-hour drive. Many travellers base themselves here for a week or more.
Mataram
Lombok's capital is a busy Indonesian city with great food markets, the Islamic Centre mosque, and the Lombok Epicentrum Mall. Most travellers pass through Mataram en route to other parts of the island, but it is worth a half-day stop for its nasi balap puyung (Lombok's signature rice dish) and ayam taliwang (spicy grilled chicken).
5. Gili Islands as a Stopover — Bali → Gili → Lombok Itinerary
One of the smartest travel routes in Indonesia is the Bali → Gili Islands → Lombok itinerary. Most fast boats from Bali stop at the Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, or Gili Air) before continuing to Lombok, or you can buy a ticket just to the Gilis and stay for a few days before hopping onward.
How It Works
Virtually every fast-boat operator offers a multi-stop ticket. You can purchase a Bali–Gili–Lombok pass that allows you to travel Bali → Gili, stay several days, then use a later boat from Gili → Lombok. Operators like Eka Jaya, Blue Water, and Gili Gili all offer flexible open-jaw tickets. Alternatively, book two separate legs: Bali to Gili, then Gili to Lombok on a local speedboat or public ferry.
Sample 5-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Morning fast boat from Bali to Gili Trawangan (2 hours). Afternoon exploring the island by bicycle. Overnight on Gili T.
- Day 2: Snorkelling trip around the Gilis — turtles at Gili Meno, underwater statues at Gili Air. Overnight on Gili T or Gili Air.
- Day 3: Late-morning speedboat from Gili to Senggigi (15–20 minutes, ~100K IDR). Settle into a Lombok hotel. Evening sunset at Batu Bolong temple.
- Day 4: Day trip to Kuta Lombok or Mount Rinjani trek. Overnight in Lombok.
- Day 5: Return ferry or flight back to Bali.
This route lets you experience three very different destinations in one trip without backtracking. For more on the islands themselves, read our Gili Islands Guide.
6. Tips for the Crossing — Seasickness, Luggage & What to Expect
Whether you choose the budget car ferry or a luxury fast boat, a little preparation goes a long way. Here is what experienced Bali travellers want you to know before you cross the Lombok Strait.
Seasickness
The Lombok Strait can be rough, particularly during the wet season (November–March) when strong winds and high swell are common. Even the largest fast boats pitch and roll significantly on a bad day. Take motion-sickness medication (Antimo or Dramamine) 30–40 minutes before departure. Sit in the middle of the boat near the waterline, avoid heavy meals beforehand, and keep your eyes on the horizon. An empty stomach + ginger candies is a reliable survival kit.
Luggage Limits
Fast boats are strict about luggage. Typical limits are 20–25 kg per person in one bag. Excess luggage costs around 50,000–100,000 IDR per extra kilo if they allow it at all — some operators simply refuse overweight bags. Surfboards incur a surcharge (50,000–150,000 IDR each) and must be bagged. The car ferry has no luggage limit; you can bring whatever you can carry, but keep valuables with you.
What to Expect at the Ports
Padang Bai can be chaotic. Touts approach you the moment you arrive, offering tickets, parking, and "help" with your bags. Ignore unsolicited offers and buy only from official counters or your pre-booked operator's booth. The port has basic warungs, toilets (bring your own tissue), and a small waiting area. Serangan is more organised, with proper ticket offices, a cafe, and cleaner facilities.
When to Travel
The best time to visit Bali and Lombok for smooth ferry crossings is the dry season — April to October. Within that window, morning departures (7:00–9:00 AM) have the calmest seas. Afternoon crossings are more prone to wind chop. Avoid travel during Indonesian public holidays (Idul Fitri, Christmas, Nyepi) when ferries are packed and prices spike.
Booking Your Tickets
For fast boats, book online via reputable platforms or directly through operator websites. Walk-up purchases at the port are possible but subject to availability and higher prices. For the car ferry, tickets are sold at the port only — no online booking is available for foot passengers. Arrive at least 1 hour before departure for fast boats, or 30 minutes for the car ferry.
Final Checklist
- Motion-sickness tablets (Antimo or Dramamine)
- Water and snacks (port options are limited and overpriced)
- Light jacket or sarong — sea breeze and AC cabins get chilly
- Sunscreen and hat — the top deck is exposed
- Cash (IDR) — most port counters and local transport do not accept cards
- Printed or digital ticket confirmation for pre-booked fast boats
- Small backpack for valuables — luggage goes in the hold
The Bali to Lombok ferry crossing is a well-trodden route with options for every budget and travel style. Whether you ride the public car ferry with locals and scooters, zip across on a fast boat, or island-hop through the Gilis, getting to Lombok is part of the adventure. Book smart, pack light, and enjoy everything Lombok has to offer.