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The hop from Sanur's boardwalk to car-free Gili Trawangan, Gili T to everyone who has been, is one of the classic island crossings in Indonesia. Sanur is a calm coastal town with a paved seafront path and sunrise views. Gili T runs on a different rhythm: cars and motorbikes are prohibited, so you get bicycles and horse-drawn cidomo carts instead.[1] The water between Bali and the Gilis can be a flat turquoise playground or a lively swell, which makes your choice of boat part of the adventure.
Leaving from Sanur suits anyone staying in southern Bali: boats to the Gili islands leave from the modern Sanur Harbor terminal[2] and you skip the long drive to Padang Bai. The crossing runs over the Lombok Strait, the deep channel that marks the Wallace Line between Asian and Australasian wildlife. Keep an eye out for flying fish and, with luck, dolphins in the wake.
Sanur to Gili Trawangan by Ferry
Boats are the way to go, and Sanur Harbor has speedboats and larger high-speed ferries to choose from. On booking platforms, direct crossings cost about $23 to $55 (November 2026). The trip takes from about 3 hours and up to 5 hours when the boat calls at other islands on the way.[3] Scoot Fast Cruises, for example, links Sanur with Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, Gili Meno and Bangsal on Lombok.[2]
Speedboat Services
Speedboats are the most common choice on this route. Departures cluster in the morning, when the sea is usually calmer,[3] and some boats make a stop at Nusa Lembongan on the way. One Scoot Fast Cruises round trip, for example, leaves Sanur at 09:30 and Lembongan at 10:45.[2] You can compare operators and book a seat on GoAsia.cc.
High-Speed Ferries
If you want a steadier ride, the larger high-speed ferries are worth a look, especially if you get seasick. They run less often than speedboats, with two morning departures offered on booking platforms and a crossing of about 3 to 4 hours.[3]
Combined Van and Boat Transfers
For a door-to-door trip, some operators bundle a van pick-up from your hotel with the boat crossing, and you do not have to think about getting to the harbour on time. Combined tickets are offered from Sanur, and from other parts of Bali as a minivan plus ferry package that takes from about 3 hours 45 minutes and starts at about $27 (November 2026).[3]
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Duration | Departures |
|---|---|---|
| Speedboat | From about 3h, up to 5h with stops[3] | Mornings |
| High-speed ferry | About 3h to 4h[3] | Two morning departures |
| Van + speedboat | Varies with pick-up[3] | Morning |
| Minivan + ferry (from Bali) | From about 3h 45m[3] | Morning |
Tips for Traveling from Sanur to Gili Trawangan
- Arrive early: Fast boat operators ask you to check in about an hour before departure.[4] The Sanur terminal is modern and can be busy.
- Seasickness prep: The Lombok Strait can be rough. If you are sensitive to motion, take a motion sickness pill about 30 minutes before boarding, and sit toward the back of the boat for a steadier ride.
- Luggage: Large bags usually go in the hold or under covers on the roof. Keep passports, valuables and electronics in a daypack that stays with you.
- Sun protection: The sun reflecting off the water is strong even indoors. Put on sunscreen before boarding, especially if you want a seat on the roof deck.
- Arrival at Gili T: Without motor vehicles on the island, you walk to your hotel or hire a cidomo.[1] Keep some small rupiah notes ready for the carriage.
Timetable
| Ferry Sanur - Gili Islands $ 22.98 4h 30m | |
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| Ferry Sanur - Gili Trawangan $ 22.75–54.49 3h – 5h | |
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| Van Bali - Gili Islands $ 26.79 3h 45m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Sanur to Gili Trawangan, including current prices and schedules.
A standard speedboat is usually the cheapest option, with direct crossings from about $23 on booking platforms (November 2026). Booking ahead helps you get the better prices.
A direct speedboat or high-speed ferry, which takes from about 3 hours depending on sea conditions and stops.
Usually 3 to 5 hours. Boats with stops at other islands take longer, and minivan plus ferry combinations take from about 3 hours 45 minutes.
Most departures leave in the morning. If you want to arrive by early afternoon, book an early boat.
Yes, boats are widely used and operators follow maritime rules. Trips can be delayed or cancelled in high swell or severe weather, so keep your plans flexible.
Booking ahead is a good idea, especially in the peak dry season from July to September, so you get a seat on the time you want.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia (Wonderful Indonesia): Gili Trawangan and The Gilis. Retrieved October 23, 2026.
- [2] Scoot Fast Cruises: Scoot Fast Cruises. Retrieved November 1, 2026.
- [3] 12Go: 12Go Timetable Sanur - Gili Trawangan. Retrieved November 1, 2026.
- [4] Ekajaya Fast Ferry: Daily Schedules | Ekajaya Fast Ferry Departures & Routes. Retrieved October 28, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.