What is the fastest way from Bali to Lombok?

The flight, at about 45 minutes in the air versus 2 to 3 hours by boat. Door to door the gap narrows once you add airport time.

What is the cheapest way?

The slow car ferry or a fast boat, roughly $5 to $40 one way depending on the option, versus around $60 to $90 to fly.

Generally yes, but the open-water crossing gets rough and is occasionally cancelled in the wet season. Check the operator's safety record.

Should I fly or take the boat?

Fly for south or central Lombok. Take the boat if you want the Gili Islands or the northwest coast, since boats land closer to them than the airport does.

Bali to Lombok: Fast Boat or Flight?

Our pick

Fly if your destination is south or central Lombok, since the airport is there and flying is weather-proof. Take a fast boat only if you are heading to the Gili Islands or the northwest coast, because boats land near Bangsal and save a long land transfer. Open-water crossings get rough from November to March.

Your options

Domestic flight (DPS to LOP)

Around $60 to $90 one way (working estimate)

Duration:: About 30 to 45 minutes in the air, near 2 hours door to door
Frequency:: Multiple daily

Fast boat

Around $20 to $40 one way (working estimate)

Duration:: 2 to 3.5 hours including land transfers
Frequency:: Several daily, mostly morning

Best if you are heading to the Gilis or northwest Lombok, not the south.

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Slow car ferry (Padangbai to Lembar)

Around $5 to $10 as a foot passenger (working estimate)

Duration:: 4 to 5 hours crossing, plus transfers
Frequency:: Roughly hourly

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Common questions

What is the fastest way from Bali to Lombok?: The flight, at about 45 minutes in the air versus 2 to 3 hours by boat. Door to door the gap narrows once you add airport time.
What is the cheapest way?: The slow car ferry or a fast boat, roughly $5 to $40 one way depending on the option, versus around $60 to $90 to fly.
Is the boat safe?: Generally yes, but the open-water crossing gets rough and is occasionally cancelled in the wet season. Check the operator's safety record.
Should I fly or take the boat?: Fly for south or central Lombok. Take the boat if you want the Gili Islands or the northwest coast, since boats land closer to them than the airport does.

Itineraries that use this route

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Prices and schedules are working estimates and change with season and operator. Confirm current fares and departure times before you book. Some links are affiliate links; booking through them helps fund the site at no extra cost to you.