Leaving the emerald rice terraces of Ubud for the turquoise waters of Nusa Lembongan marks a shift from Bali's spiritual heart to its rugged island fringe. While Ubud offers a deep dive into Balinese culture and jungle serenity, Nusa Lembongan is all about the salt air, dramatic limestone cliffs, and world-class snorkeling. The journey requires crossing the Badung Strait, a stretch of water that can be as smooth as glass or quite spirited depending on the tides.
The transition from the highlands to the coast is a well-trodden path, but it requires a bit of coordination. You will first need to navigate the winding roads down to the harbor - usually Sanur or Padang Bai - before boarding a boat. Because these logistics involve both land and sea, most travelers opt for integrated tickets that combine a van pick-up with the ferry crossing, ensuring a seamless connection without the stress of haggling with multiple drivers.
Ubud to Nusa Lembongan by Ferry
Taking a ferry is the most common way to reach the island. This category covers everything from large public vessels to sleek modern speedboats. Prices for the boat leg and combined transport typically range from $12 to $27. Depending on the specific boat type and the harbor used, the duration of the trip can vary between 2 and 4 hours.
Van and High Speed Ferry
This is a popular choice for those who value efficiency. The journey usually begins with a van pick-up from your accommodation or a central meeting point in Ubud. You are then driven to the harbor to board a High Speed Ferry or an Aluminium Fast Ferry. These vessels are designed to cut through the waves quickly, reducing the time spent on the water. Prices for these combined services are competitive, often sitting around the $15 to $25 mark. It is a comfortable way to travel, with air-conditioned vans and enclosed seating on the boats.
Speedboat and Shuttle Options
For those looking for the most flexible departure times, the Speedboat + Van service offers numerous slots throughout the day. These smaller, faster boats provide a more intimate experience but can be a bit bumpier if the sea is rough. If you are on a tighter budget, the Shuttle + Ferry or standard Ferry options are available, often starting as low as $12. While these might take a little longer due to the boarding process and the speed of the vessel, they offer a classic island-hopping experience. You can easily compare these different boat classes and book your preferred seat on GoAsia.cc.
Ubud to Nusa Lembongan by Van
When you see "Van" listed as a primary mode for this route, it refers to the comprehensive land-to-sea packages. These are highly recommended because Ubud is landlocked and at least an hour away from the nearest port. Prices for these door-to-island services range from $13 to $28, with travel times as short as 48 minutes for the land portion plus the crossing, or up to 3 hours and 15 minutes if there are multiple pick-ups along the way.
Standard and Taxi Combinations
The Van + Speedboat and Van + Ferry combinations are the workhorses of this route. They offer the convenience of being picked up directly from your Ubud hotel. For those who prefer a bit more privacy or a more direct route to the harbor, Taxi + Ferry options are also available, usually priced toward the higher end of the scale at around $28. The standard van services are reliable and include staff who help guide you from the vehicle to the correct boat jetty, which can be chaotic at busy ports like Sanur.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry (Standard) | $12 - $27 | 2h - 4h | Moderate |
| Van + Speedboat | $13 - $28 | 48min - 3h 15min | High |
| Taxi + Ferry | $28 | 3h | High |
Tips for Traveling from Ubud to Nusa Lembongan
- Prepare for wet landings: In many cases, especially at Sanur, there is no pier. You may have to wade through knee-deep water to board the boat. Wear shorts and sandals or flip-flops that are easy to remove.
- Book in advance: While there are many departures, the most popular morning slots often fill up, especially during the dry season. Booking ahead ensures you get the most convenient van pick-up time.
- Motion sickness: The Badung Strait can occasionally be choppy. If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking medication about 30 minutes before boarding the boat.
- Luggage: Most operators include luggage handling in the price. Staff will carry your heavy bags onto the boat and store them in a dry area. Keep your valuables in a small waterproof daypack that stays with you.
- Arrival in Lembongan: Most boats arrive at Jungut Batu or Mushroom Bay. Check where your accommodation is located, as you may need a local scooter taxi or a small truck (bemo) to reach your hotel upon arrival.
Timetable
| Ferry Ubud - Nusa Lembongan $ 11.98–26.08 2h – 4h | |
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| Van Ubud - Nusa Lembongan $ 12.55–27.39 48m – 3h 15m | |
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| Van Bali - Nusa Lembongan $ 27.39–34.24 49m – 3h 15m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can book train, bus, flight, taxi, van, and ferry tickets from Ubud to Nusa Lembongan directly on GoAsia.cc. Use the booking tool on this page to compare all available options and prices in real time.
The cheapest way to travel is by Ferry, with prices starting as low as $12. Opting for a standard Ferry or a Shuttle + Ferry combination usually offers the most budget friendly rates.
The fastest way is typically a combined Van + Speedboat service, which can take as little as 48 minutes depending on traffic conditions in Ubud and the speed of the vessel.
The total journey time generally ranges from 1 hour to 4 hours. This includes the drive from Ubud to the coast and the boat crossing to the island.
It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially if you want a package that includes a hotel pick-up in Ubud. Morning departures are very popular and can sell out during peak travel months.
Yes, it is very likely. Many boats departing for Nusa Lembongan require passengers to walk through the water to reach the boat. It is best to wear easy-to-dry clothing and waterproof footwear.
Ubud is located in the mountains and has no ocean access. You must first take a van or taxi for about 60 to 90 minutes to a harbor like Sanur before boarding a boat to the island.