How to Get from Sanur to Gili Air

Leaving the sophisticated shores of Sanur for the laid-back, car-free paradise of Gili Air is a transition from Bali's mainland charm to a world where the only traffic sounds are bicycle bells and the clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages. This route takes you across the Lombok Strait, with the volcanic peaks of Bali receding and the turquoise fringes of the Gili archipelago coming into view.

While Sanur is famous for its sunrise walks and calm lagoons, Gili Air provides a middle ground between the party atmosphere of Gili Trawangan and the seclusion of Gili Meno. The journey is a staple for island hoppers. You can compare options and book your tickets for this route on GoAsia.cc.

Sanur to Gili Air by Ferry

Boats to the Gili islands leave from the new Sanur Harbor terminal, and the Scoot Fast Cruises service to Lembongan and the Gilis departs Sanur at 09:30.^[1] On booking platforms, ferry and speedboat tickets from Sanur to the Gili Islands cost about $22 to $54 (November 2026), depending on the speed of the vessel and the level of service.^[2]

High Speed Ferry and Speedboats

Speedboats are the preferred choice for most travelers because they cut down the time on open water. A speedboat or high-speed ferry takes from about 3 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes. The ride can be bouncy if the swells pick up. Many passengers prefer to sit on the upper deck to soak in the sun and watch the coastline of Bali disappear. One direct ferry from Sanur to Gili Air takes about 3 hours 20 minutes and costs about $52 on booking platforms.^[2]

Combined Transport Packages

If you want a door-to-door experience, some operators sell a "Van + Speedboat" or "Shuttle + Ferry" ticket that includes a transfer from your accommodation to the harbor. The total journey takes about 5 hours.^[2]

Sanur to Gili Air by Van

A van service that coordinates the whole trip, with a minivan to the harbor and a speedboat to the islands, costs about $53 on booking platforms and takes about 5 hours.^[2] It is convenient for families and groups who want a managed transfer.

Sanur to Gili Air by Bus

The most budget-friendly way to make the trip is a bus and ferry combination. It costs about $22 on booking platforms and takes about 5 hours 30 minutes.^[2] It is the slowest method, but the larger ferry gives a more stable ride than a speedboat, which helps if you are prone to seasickness.

Comparing Your Options

Tips for Traveling from Sanur to Gili Air

• Book in Advance: During the peak dry season, boats fill up quickly. Secure your seat a few days ahead, especially for the popular morning departures.
• Manage Seasickness: The Lombok Strait can be rough. If you are sensitive to motion, take a motion sickness pill 30 minutes before boarding and sit toward the back of the boat, where the movement is less intense.
• Luggage Handling: Crews usually store large bags in the hull. Keep your valuables, electronics and a bottle of water in a small bag that stays with you.
• Arrival on Gili Air: No motorized vehicles are allowed on the Gilis. Once you arrive at the jetty, you walk to your hotel, cycle, or hire a cidomo, a small horse-drawn cart.^[3] Have some local currency ready for the cart ride.