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For most people, the way to get between Bali and Nusa Lembongan will be on a boat. The ferry transfer is typically on a fast boat; essentially these are oversized speed boats purpose-built for transporting people between the islands as quickly and safely as possible. Here are our top tips for a hassle-free transfer between Bali and Nusa Lembongan.
TOP TIP #1 - TRAVEL AT HIGH TIDE
The boats will generally back up to the beach to pick up passengers and drop passengers off. If the tide is too low the boats need to park further out, which either means a longer walk out to the boat (often over broken coral), or you will need to get a smaller shuttle boat from the beach to the main ferry. This can add travel time and cause delays in boarding and disembarking. Generally there are less likely to be delays if you travel at high tide.
TOP TIP #2 - TRAVEL IN THE MORNING
The mornings are, more often than not, the best time to travel if you want a smooth ride. The reason being is that the winds are usually lighter in the mornings so there is less chop during the crossing - sometimes it is absolutely glassy the whole way. This also means the boat can go faster whilst still having a comfortable ride cutting down the transit time.
TOP TIP #3 - HAVE YOUR ACCOMMODATION PROVIDER BOOK YOUR TRANSFERS
There are a lot of different boat companies that offer ferry services between Bali and Nusa Lembongan.
These boat companies have different departure and arrival locations on both Bali and Nusa Lembongan, they also target different markets so have varying levels of price, quality and service. Your accommodation provider will know the most convenient and reliable transfer providers. Travelling with the fast boat company recommended by the accommodation provider will also mean that the boat company will know where to drop you off and have the contact details of the accommodation provider to make the transfer process as smooth as possible.
TOP TIP #4 - GIVE YOURSELF ENOUGH TIME
No different to when you travel on an aeroplane, ensure you give yourself sufficient time to check-in when you arrive at the departure location for the boat. You need time to get the luggage from your car to the check-in area, and then for your luggage to be loaded onto the boat. Similarly, there can be delays for whatever reason on the boat, and it takes some time to disembark, so if you have pressing time requirements (for example you need to get to the airport for your flight), ensure you plan with sufficient time for unforeseen delays.
TOP TIP #5 - CHEAPEST ISN'T ALWAYS BEST
As we mentioned above there are a number of different transport operators. These transport operators target different markets, some targeting the local market or are a very budget offering. This often means they are slower, less reliable with older boats and engines, have fewer language skills, are less helpful with assisting with luggage, are less helpful with assisting you to get on and off the boat, and don't offer assistance with land transport. For a few dollars difference, it is worth travelling with the transfer service suggested by your accommodation provider as they will know the market and which transfer operator is most suitable to your circumstances.
TOP TIP #6 - HAVE THE BOAT COMPANY ORGANISE YOUR LAND TRANSPORT
The better boat companies will also offer a transport service in Bali as well as on Nusa Lembongan. By having the boat company organise your land transport, it gives you added peace of mind that the boat will not leave without you if there is a delay i.e. you get stuck in traffic, as the driver will have all the contact details of the boat provider and be able to keep in contact. Trust us, this can be very helpful! The land transport on Bali will often have a fee attached - similar to what a taxi/driver would cost in any case. Once on Nusa Lembongan, the boat company will also have a land transport service to drop you at the accommodation. To make this process as seamless as possible, it is best to simply let the accommodation provider organise this for you and they will coordinate the land transport and boat transfers for you.
TOP TIP #7 - WEAR APPROPRIATE CLOTHING
The fast-boats will usually back up to the beach, meaning to board the boat you will need to walk a few feet through the water to board the boat. The staff working for the boat companies are generally helpful with assisting you to board the boat, though remember to wear shorts and footwear that is easy to take off so you can board the boat easily.
TOP TIP #8 - PACK DRINKS AND SNACKS
There is no meal or drink service on the boats, so it is worth packing a few snack and drinks to keep hydrated. Also, most fast boats do not have a toilet on them, so it is worth going to the rest-room before getting on the boat just in case.
TOP TIP #9 - ARRIVING AT NIGHT
If you are arriving in Bali on a flight that arrives in the afternoon or at night, be mindful that the last boats to Nusa Lembongan depart Bali typically between 4:00 - 5:00pm. If you plan to come straight from the airport to Nusa Lembongan, make sure you check the boat schedule before booking your flights; give yourself sufficient time to allow for delays, disembark the plane, get through customs/immigration and then make your way from the airport to the boat harbour. If you are delayed or miss the last boat for that day, you will need to find alternate accommodation in Bali for that evening.
NEED HELP BOOKING YOUR FERRY TRANSFERS?
Our team is standing by and ready to assist you with organising your ferry transfers to and from Nusa Lembongan. Regardless on whether you are staying with us or not, we can help you with booking your fast boat to the Nusa Islands (Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan or Nusa Penida) with the most reputable operators. Get in contact - click here
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