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Trading the cliffs and surf breaks of Uluwatu for the rugged landscapes of Nusa Penida is a classic Bali transition. Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach are the draws, and the crossing over the Badung Strait takes you from the southern tip of mainland Bali to its best-known offshore neighbor.
Boats do not leave from Uluwatu itself. BlueWater Express recommends Serangan as the port for south Bali,[1] and Eka Jaya offers a Serangan Harbour departure to avoid congestion on the way to Sanur.[2] So the trip is a ride across south Bali to the harbour and then a boat, which is why most travelers book a combined ticket.
Uluwatu to Nusa Penida by Van and Boat
With a combined ticket, a driver picks you up at your accommodation or a meeting point and takes you to the pier. Booking platforms list van-plus-ferry and van-plus-speedboat tickets from Bali to Nusa Penida at about $17 to $29, with listed trip times of 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 45 minutes (October 2026).[3] A speedboat shortens the time on the water, since BlueWater Express puts Penida about 45 minutes east of Sanur.[1] The range of total times reflects the drive across south Bali, traffic and the boat type.
Uluwatu to Nusa Penida by Boat Only
If you arrange your own transport to the harbor, for example with a rented scooter or a ride-hailing app, you can book the boat separately. Booking platforms list boat-only tickets from Bali to Nusa Penida at about $13 to $17, with listed trip times of 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes (October 2026).[3] Eka Jaya lands at Banjar Nyuh on Nusa Penida,[2] so check which landing your ticket uses.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price (USD) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Boat only | About $13 to $17[3] | 2h 30m to 3h 30m[3] |
| Van + ferry or speedboat | About $17 to $29[3] | 2h 15m to 3h 45m[3] |
Tips for Traveling from Uluwatu to Nusa Penida
- Book in advance: BlueWater Express advises booking your trip in advance.[1] Boats can fill up, especially morning departures that allow a full day of sightseeing.
- Luggage: If you carry a large suitcase, a combined van and boat ticket is easier. Staff at the harbor usually help with heavy bags.
- Motion sickness: The Badung Strait can be choppy, particularly in the afternoon. BlueWater Express serves motion sickness tablets on board;[1] if you use another operator, bring your own and choose an early departure.
- Arrival at Nusa Penida: Check which landing is closest to your accommodation before booking. The island is larger than it looks, and onward transport can cost more than on the mainland.
Timetable
| Ferry Bali - Nusa Penida $ 12.91–16.87 2h 30m – 3h 30m | |
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| Van Bali - Nusa Penida $ 17.35–28.90 2h 15m – 3h 45m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Uluwatu to Nusa Penida, including current prices and schedules.
Booking platforms list boat-only tickets from Bali to Nusa Penida at about $13 to $17 (October 2026). You must arrange your own ride from Uluwatu to the harbor, which adds to the cost.
A van combined with a speedboat is the fastest option. BlueWater Express puts Penida about 45 minutes by boat from Sanur, and booking platforms list van-and-boat trips from 2 hours 15 minutes.
Booking platforms list 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 45 minutes for van-and-boat trips and 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes for boat-only tickets. Traffic in south Bali and the boat type make the difference.
Operators run several departures per day. BlueWater Express, for example, runs two to four daily departures depending on the time of year, and booking platforms list van-and-boat pick-ups from early morning until the afternoon. Early departures usually have calmer seas.
Yes, it is recommended, especially in the peak season. BlueWater Express advises booking in advance, and a combined ticket also secures your van pick-up from Uluwatu.
It is possible, because landing conditions vary by operator, harbor and tide. Wearing sandals and shorts is the practical choice.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] BlueWater Express: BlueWater Express: Premium service to Penida, Gili Islands and Lombok. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [2] Eka Jaya Fast Ferry: Ekajaya Fast Ferry official website. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [3] 12Go: 12Go timetable: Uluwatu to Nusa Penida. Retrieved October 15, 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.