In Bali, hopping on a fast boat to the Gilis is a quick and affordable option. It also allows you to spend more time on the rooftop staring at volcanic islands dotting the ocean than sitting in traffic!
Most fast boat companies operate daily and offer very reasonable island hopper tickets. Many include hotel pickup in their ticket price.
Weather
Bali is located close to the equator and its tropical climate makes for consistently hot and humid weather. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, verdant rice fields, Hindu temples, and world-class surfing. However, it also has a rich maritime tradition, as illustrated by the jukung, double outrigger dugout sailing canoes manned by one or two crewmembers that are used to skim over coral reefs and transport cargo across the water.
The weather is best from May to October, when temperatures are warm but not uncomfortably hot and there’s less rain than during the wet season. This is also peak season for tourism, so expect high crowds at popular beach destinations and at top attractions like Ulun Danu Beratan at Lake Batur.
January is one of the wettest months in Bali with heavy tropical showers and humidity. Although it doesn’t rain every day, you should pack a lightweight rain jacket and an umbrella.
Rainfall drops off in April, but temperatures are still hot and humid. This is a good time to visit the north of the island, particularly Lovina and its surrounding areas, as well as the mountainous inland destination of Bedugul with its sacred Ulun Danu Beratan Temple on the shores of Baratan Lake. It is also the start of the surf season on the western coast.
Boats
The boats that you take from Bali to the Gilis (Gili Trawangan, Meno and Air) are small and can feel bumpy on stormy days. If you’re prone to motion sickness, these boats may be too much for you. However, there are ways to minimize your chances of getting sick on a boat trip. One way is to take some motion sickness pills or patches before you board. Another way is to sit in the back of the boat away from the wind and waves.
There are many fast boat companies that operate from Padang Bai, Sanur, Benoa Marina and Serangan Harbor to the Gili Islands. Some even offer transportation to and from your resort as part of the ticket price. Regardless of where you depart from, these boats typically take 1.5 to 2.5 hours to get to the Gilis.
If you want to go to Nusa Penida from the Gilis, there are also public boats that leave from Jungut Batu on Nusa Lembongan daily. Tickets for these boats cost a little less than $1.5 per person, but the trip can take up to an hour.
If you’re looking for a boat to sail the waters around the island of Bali, check out the YachtWorld listings. You’ll find both new and used models ranging in size from 38 to 56 feet.
Crew
The island of Bali is well known for its Hindu temples and rice fields, but it also has a strong seafaring tradition with double outrigger dugout sailing canoes called “jukung.” These small boats are fast and nimble, able to skim over coral reefs and suitable for offshore conditions.
Ifan has captained many Indonesian sailing boats throughout Southeast Asia and is a seasoned veteran with an extensive local knowledge. He’s an excellent leader and is a natural at plotting new expedition routes and discovering new endemic marine life. Aliman is an experienced marine carpenter from Eastern Java and brings a sense of humor along with his skills to the crew. He’s a true MacGyver, able to fix anything on the boat. Putu used to be a head chef at Aranui Liveaboard and is now the captain of Lamima. He enjoys the adventure and diversity that Lamima offers at its exotic cruising grounds.
Safety
A trip on a boat from Bali to the Gili Islands is a safe and reliable mode of transportation. However, it is important to follow safety instructions from the crew, especially during rough seas. In addition, it is a good idea to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket. You may also want to bring motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness.
It is important to select a speedboat operator with a solid safety record. A good way to do this is to look for reviews of the company online. You can also ask your friends for recommendations. It is a good idea to book your ticket early. Also, make sure to leave yourself an extra day when you return to Bali. Sometimes boats run late, and it can be stressful to catch your flight on time if you have to rush back.
If you are traveling with children, it is a good idea to keep them close by and stay in sight at all times. It is also a good idea to wear a life vest at all times. In addition, you should bring a waterproof bag for your camera, cash, and travel documents. It is also important to pay the harbor tax to enter and exit the island (10,000IDR departing Padang Bai and 3,000IDR entering or leaving the Gili Islands). Be sure to keep your receipts.boat bali