About the ride from Sanur to Nusa Penida
Although Bali’s beaches are beautiful and there’s plenty to do, getting offshore once in a while is a great way to spend a vacation. Indonesia is an island nation, so why not go and explore more than just Bali?
And here’s how…
The distance from Bali’s southeast town of Sanur to Nusa Penida Island is just 32 kilometers (19 miles). This means you can pop over for a day trip or find a place to stay on the island for a few well-deserved days of rest and recuperation.
The island is tranquil and peaceful, so don’t expect all-night bars or dodgy neon-lit strips. Nusa Penida is all about getting away from it all. If you’re a nature lover, you’ve certainly stumbled upon the right place.
Coral gardens surround the island, while a hilly, forested interior is ideal for exploring if you’ve remembered to bring your hiking boots. Also, don’t forget your binoculars, as Nusa Penida is a protected bird sanctuary.
The best way to travel from Sanur to Nusa Penida is by boat. It’s a well-used route, and journeys tend to take no more than 40 minutes. Numerous high-speed ferry service providers are on hand to get you over to the island from Sanur.
Boat trips are relatively frequent and don’t cost much for a one-way seat; you’re looking at anything from US$10-16. Vessels are comfortable and come equipped with buoyancy aids and safety equipment, but you won’t need them.
Several high-speed ferries and speedboats operate in this area of the Bali Sea, many of which have air-conditioned seating cabins as well as open-plan top decks. They’re not massive boats, but then Nusa Penida isn't a massive island.
The most popular way to get from Sanur to Nusa Penida is onboard Crown Fast Cruises’ high-speed ferry. This is a small single-deck craft. Don’t expect artificial air-conditioning but do expect a glorious sea breeze and plenty of salty sea spray.
The quickest way to head offshore from Sanur is on the high-speed ferry operated by S’Gening Fastboat. This boat does have an air-conditioned cabin and only takes half an hour to get to the island. It’s more like a speedboat.
If you’re wondering, how do I get from Sanur to Nusa Penida for the lowest price possible, then you might want to take a look at the high-speed ferry organized by The Angkal Fastboat. One-way tickets start from US$10.
Alternative ferry companies on this stretch of water include Sri Rejeki Fastboat, Maruti Express Fastboat, Golden Queen Fastboat and Arthamas Express. All vessels depart daily, usually straight off Sanur’s main beach.
There isn’t a great deal of difference from one boat to another. However, they will head to different harbors and piers located around Nusa Penida’s shoreline.
If you’ve already booked accommodation, your hosts will tell you where to head and might be around to meet you and help with your luggage when you arrive.
What to see when traveling from Sanur to Nusa Penida
Ferry transport from Sanur to Nusa Penida only takes about a half an hour. So there is not a ton to see along the way. Although this stretch of the Badung Strait does hold more than its fair share of natural and cultural history.
Keep your eyes peeled for the island appearing on the horizon as you wave goodbye to Sanur’s white-sand beaches and cycle-friendly promenade. Nusa Penida isn’t the only island in this area, so try to spot some more as you sit back and enjoy the ride.
One feature of the island that you’ll probably see first is its hilly interior. These lumps and bumps are covered in forest, which is why it’s such a well-regarded and protected environment for indigenous Indonesian birds and wildlife.
Depending on which part of Nusa Penida you head to, you’ll also see plumes of smoke appearing above the trees. This stems from the traditional village communities who have been living in much the same way for generations.
On your final approach to the island, watch for fishing boats bobbing up and down on the water. Get your camera poised because this can be a wonderful first introduction to one of Indonesia’s best-kept secrets—shhhhh!
How to get from Sanur to Nusa Penida
Taking a ferry
The only and best way to get from Sanur to Nusa Penida is by boat. Unfortunately, it’s a tiny island, so there is no international airport and certainly no underwater tunnel or overwater bridge.
High-speed ferries and speed boats leave from Sanur every day. It’s easy to book your tickets in advance, but don’t leave it too late. Some boats fill up quite quickly, especially in high season. Tickets are very affordable, and boats are well-maintained and reliable.
And that’s how to get from Sanur to Nusa Penida.
Make sure you book accommodation on the island in advance because then you’ll know which ferry to take. Alternatively, just jump aboard the nearest boat and see where it takes you. Ah, to be young and free again!
