How to Get from Bali to Lombok by Slow Ferry, Traveling between Bali and Lombok is one of the most beautiful inter-island journeys in Indonesia. While there are several ways to cross the Lombok Strait — such as by fast boat or airplane — the slow ferry remains the most affordable and authentic option.
If you want to experience the real rhythm of local travel, enjoy the open ocean, and save money, taking the slow ferry from Bali to Lombok is a perfect choice.
This complete guide explains everything you need to know — from departure ports and ticket prices to what to expect on board and useful travel tips.
1. The Route: Padangbai (Bali) to Lembar (Lombok)
The slow ferry route connects Padangbai Harbor in East Bali with Lembar Harbor in West Lombok. This route is operated by ASDP Indonesia Ferry, the government-owned company that runs inter-island ferry services across the country.
- Departure Port: Padangbai, East Bali
- Arrival Port: Lembar, West Lombok
- Travel Distance: Around 35 kilometers across the Lombok Strait
- Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours (sometimes up to 6, depending on weather and sea conditions)
The ferry operates 24 hours a day, with departures roughly every 1 to 2 hours, so you can travel whenever it suits your schedule — even at night.
2. Why Choose the Slow Ferry?
The slow ferry is popular among both locals and backpackers for three main reasons: affordability, flexibility, and local atmosphere.
a. It’s Budget-Friendly
The ferry is the cheapest way to get from Bali to Lombok.
- Ticket price: Around IDR 70,000–90,000 per person (USD 5–6).
Tickets are purchased directly at website https://trip.ferizy.com/ or at online ticket counter near the padang bai harbor, and the price is fixed by the government, so you don’t have to worry about overcharging.
b. Flexible Schedule
Unlike flights or fast boats, the slow ferry runs around the clock — day and night. This gives travelers more freedom to plan their journey without worrying about missing a fixed departure time.
Whether you’re catching the sunrise on deck or sailing under a star-filled sky, the ferry is available whenever you’re ready to go.
c. Authentic Local Experience
Taking the slow ferry is a window into real Indonesian life. You’ll share the journey with local passengers, traders, and families moving between islands.
It’s not a luxury cruise — it’s a genuine travel experience filled with friendly smiles, the sound of the sea, and the smell of salt air.
3. How to Get to Padangbai Harbor
Padangbai is located on Bali’s east coast, about:
- 1.5 hours from Ubud
- 2 hours from Kuta, Seminyak, or Canggu
- 2.5 hours from Denpasar Airport
Transportation Options to Padangbai:
- Taxi or private driver: The easiest and most comfortable option.
- Online ride apps (Grab or GoCar): Available in most parts of Bali.
- Shuttle bus: Some local companies offer daily shuttles from Ubud or Kuta to Padangbai.
If you’re leaving early in the morning, consider staying overnight in Padangbai — it’s a small harbor town with guesthouses, restaurants, and beach views.
4. Buying Your Ferry Ticket
You need to book online ticket at ASDP Website https://trip.ferizy.com/. Tickets are also sold directly at many counter ticke online before you reach Padangbai Harbor.
Step-by-Step Ticket Process:
- Go to the official ASDP ticket Website https://trip.ferizy.com/
- Choose the from and to destination
- Purchase your ticket By bank transfer, credit card, ddebit card, indomaret or alfa mart.
- Keep your ticket safe until boarding; you’ll show it to staff at the gate.
Avoid buying tickets from people outside the harbor who offer “special deals.” Always use the the officel website or agent ticket counter outside padang bai harbour to ensure you get the correct ticket and price.
5. Boarding the Ferry
After buying your ticket, proceed to the passenger waiting area. Boarding usually begins 60 minutes before departure.
Follow the staff’s directions to walk onto the ferry through the designated passenger ramp.
Once on board, you can choose where to sit — either inside the main cabin or on the open deck.
Seating Options:
- Indoor area: Basic benches and fans, protected from the sun.
- Outdoor deck: Open space with benches and fresh air — perfect for enjoying the ocean view.
You can move freely between the decks during the trip.
6. Onboard Facilities and Comfort
The ferries are simple but have everything you need for a comfortable journey.
Typical facilities include:
- Seating areas (indoor & outdoor)
- Basic toilets
- Snack bar or small café selling instant noodles, water, and coffee
- Smoking area on the open deck
Some ferries may have charging points or small entertainment screens, but not all. It’s best to bring your own water, snacks, and entertainment (book, music, or movie downloads).
7. The Journey Across the Lombok Strait
Once the ferry leaves Padangbai, it sails east toward Lombok across the Lombok Strait — a deep and scenic channel separating the two islands.
What You’ll See:
- Blue ocean stretching endlessly on both sides.
- Fishing boats passing by.
- On clear days, the volcanic peaks of Mount Agung in Bali and Mount Rinjani in Lombok visible in the distance.
The crossing usually takes 4 to 5 hours. Seas are generally calm, but waves can get choppy, especially during the rainy season (November to March).
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take a pill before boarding and choose a seat on the upper deck where you can feel the fresh air thats to enjoy How to Get from Bali to Lombok by Slow Ferry
You can spend the trip reading, napping, or just watching the horizon slowly change as Lombok comes into view.
8. Arriving at Lembar Harbor, Lombok
When you arrive, the ferry docks at Lembar Port, located on Lombok’s southwest coast. The process is straightforward — passengers disembark via a walkway to the terminal area.
From Lembar to Major Lombok Destinations:
- Mataram (capital city): around 45 minutes by car
- Senggigi Beach: around 1 to 1.5 hours
- Kuta Lombok: around 2 hours
- Bangsal Harbor (for the Gili Islands): around 2 hours
At the harbor exit, you’ll find taxis, local minivans, and private car drivers offering transfers to popular areas. You can also pre-arrange a pickup through your hotel or online transport app for a smoother experience.
9. Best Time to Take the Ferry
The slow ferry runs all year, but certain times offer better sailing conditions and comfort.
- Morning trips (6 AM – 10 AM): Usually calm seas and cooler weather.
- Afternoon trips (3 PM – 6 PM): Beautiful views during sunset.
- Avoid peak holiday seasons: During major holidays like Idul Fitri, the ferry can be crowded.
- Dry season (April – October): Best weather for smooth crossings.
If you travel at night, bring a light jacket — the deck can get windy, and temperatures drop slightly after dark.
10. Tips for a Comfortable Ferry Journey
Here are some useful tips to make your Bali–Lombok ferry experience enjoyable and hassle-free:
- Arrive early: At least 60 minutes before departure.
- Buy tickets only from official counters: Avoid touts outside the harbor.
- Bring snacks and water: Options onboard are limited.
- Carry small cash: For buying drinks, snacks, or transport at arrival.
- Protect your valuables: Keep your passport, wallet, and phone in a secure bag.
- Take seasickness medication: Especially if traveling during windy months.
- Dress comfortably: Loose clothing and sandals are ideal.
- Be patient: Delays are not uncommon — relax and enjoy the journey.
- Watch your step: The ferry deck can be slippery when wet.
- Enjoy the view: The open sea and coastal mountains make this trip worth every minute.
11. Cost and Time Comparison
| Transport Type | Travel Time | Ticket Price | Comfort Level | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Slow Ferry | 4–5 hours | IDR 70,000–90,000 | Basic | Local, scenic |
| Fast Boat | 1.5–2 hours | IDR 300,000–500,000 | Moderate | Tourist-oriented |
| Flight | 25 minutes | IDR 400,000–800,000 | High | Quick but impersonal |
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