How to get from Bali to Nusa Penida ? 2026 guide

Nusa Penida, located southeast of Bali, offers some of Indonesia's best scuba diving, with world-class encounters with manta rays, Mola Mola sunfish, and spectacular reef diving. If you're planning a diving trip to Nusa Penida, understanding how to get there from Bali is essential for smooth travel planning. This comprehensive 2026 guide covers all your transport options from Bali to Nusa Penida, including fast boat services, departure ports, booking tips, what to expect, and important travel information for divers.

Overview: Getting from Bali to Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida is separated from mainland Bali by the Badung Strait, a channel approximately 20 kilometers wide. The only practical way to reach Nusa Penida is by boat, with fast boat services being the standard transport method for tourists and divers. Multiple fast boat operators run daily services from various ports in Bali to Nusa Penida, with crossing times typically ranging from 30 to 60 minutes depending on departure point, sea conditions, and boat type.

The fast boat journey crosses the Badung Strait, which can experience strong currents, swells, and choppy conditions, especially during the rainy season (November-March). While generally safe, the crossing can be rough, and sensitive travelers should prepare for potential seasickness. Most boat operators provide life jackets and follow safety protocols, but conditions vary between operators.

Main Departure Ports in Bali

Three main ports in Bali offer fast boat services to Nusa Penida: Sanur Beach, Padang Bai, and Kusamba. Each has advantages and considerations for divers traveling to Nusa Penida.

1. Sanur Beach - Most Popular Departure Point

Sanur Beach, located on Bali's southeast coast, is the most popular and convenient departure point for Nusa Penida. The port offers the highest frequency of departures, the most boat operators to choose from, and the easiest access from popular tourist areas in Bali including Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, and Denpasar. Crossing time from Sanur to Nusa Penida is approximately 45 minutes depending on sea conditions.

Sanur Beach Advantages:

•       Most frequent departures throughout the day

•       Closest port to South Bali tourist areas

•       Shortest crossing time to Nusa Penida

•       Multiple reputable operators available

•       Easy to arrange hotel pick-up services

•       Better developed infrastructure and facilities

2. Padang Bai - East Bali Option

Padang Bai, located on Bali's east coast near Candidasa, offers an alternative departure point, particularly convenient if you're staying in East Bali or coming from the Gili Islands or Lombok. The crossing from Padang Bai to Nusa Penida takes approximately 45-60 minutes. Fewer operators service this route compared to Sanur, but it can be a good option for specific travel itineraries.

3. Kusamba - Local Boat Option

Kusamba, a traditional fishing village in East Bali, offers local boat services to Nusa Penida. This option is less commonly used by tourists but is very convenient if you are coming from northern Bali. Crossing time is approximately 30 minutes depending on boat type and conditions.

Recommended Fast Boat Operators

Several reputable fast boat operators service the Bali to Nusa Penida route. Choosing a reliable operator is important for safety, comfort, and on-time departures. Popular and well-regarded operators include: Maruti, Semabu Hills, Axe Stone, Angel Billabong.

Prices for fast boat tickets from Bali to Nusa Penida typically range from 150,000 to 300,000 IDR (approximately $10-20 USD) per person for a one-way ticket, with return tickets offering slightly better value. Prices can vary based on operator, season, and booking method.

Booking Your Fast Boat Ticket

You have several options for booking fast boat tickets from Bali to Nusa Penida. Each method has advantages depending on your travel style, timing, and flexibility.

Booking in Advance

Booking 1-3 days in advance is usually sufficient, though peak season may require earlier booking. In high season bear in mind that morning and evening are the busiest times. You will find some online platforms to do so, but you can also easily contact each company by Whatsapp and book directly.

Same-Day Booking at the Port

You can purchase tickets directly at Sanur Beach or Padang Bai on the day of travel. This offers maximum flexibility but risks boats being full, especially during peak season. Same-day booking is best for travelers with flexible schedules during low season (November-March). Arrive at the port at least 45 minutes before desired departure time.

Fast Boat Schedule and Departure Times

Fast boats from Sanur to Nusa Penida typically operate from early morning through late afternoon, with the highest frequency of departures during morning hours. Most operators offer 4-8 departures per day, with schedules varying slightly between operators and seasons.

Typical Departure Times from Sanur:

•       First departure: 7:00-8:00 AM

•       Morning departures: 9:00-11:00 AM

•       Midday departures: 12:00-1:00 PM

•       Afternoon departures: 2:00-5:00 PM

Tips for a Comfortable Boat Journey

1. Take Seasickness Medication if Prone

If you're sensitive to motion sickness, take medication 30-60 minutes before departure. Popular options include Dramamine, ginger tablets, or seasickness wristbands. Avoid heavy meals immediately before the journey, and stay hydrated.

2. Choose Morning Departures

Morning crossings generally experience calmer sea conditions compared to afternoon departures when winds and swells typically increase.

3. Protect Your Belongings from Water

Bring waterproof bags or covers for electronics, important documents, and other water-sensitive items. Some spray from waves is common, and occasionally waves can come over the side of the boat in rough conditions. Most operators provide some luggage protection, but it's wise to use your own waterproof protection for valuable items.

4. Arrive Early at the Departure Port

Plan to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before scheduled departure for check-in, luggage handling, and boarding. Fast boats may depart slightly earlier than scheduled if all passengers are aboard, and late arrivals risk missing the boat.

Arrival in Nusa Penida

Most fast boats from Bali arrive at one of three main harbors in Nusa Penida: Buyuk Harbor (also called Banjar Nyuh), Sampalan Harbor (Toya Pakeh), or Gamat Bay. The specific arrival port depends on sea conditions, tide levels, and boat operator. All three harbors are located along Nusa Penida's north coast and are within reasonable distance of most dive centers and accommodations.

Nusa Penida Arrival Harbors:

Toya Pakeh: Main harbor, you will find scooter rental and restaurants close by.

Sampalan: alternative harbor, boats coming from Kusamba will arrive there.

Upon arrival, you'll disembark onto a pier or via small local boats (if tide is low) that shuttle passengers from the fast boat to shore. Collect your luggage carefully and arrange onward transport to your accommodation. Most dive centers and hotels can arrange pick-up from the harbor if you book in advance.

Transportation from Harbor to Your Accommodation

Once you arrive at the harbor in Nusa Penida, you'll need transport to reach your accommodation or dive center. Several options are available depending on your budget and preferences.

Transport Options in Nusa Penida:

•       Hotel/Dive Center Pick-up: Most accommodations offer pick-up at a charge

•       Private taxi: Available at harbors, negotiate price before departure

•       Motorbike rental: Can be arranged at harbor for independent travelers

For divers, the easiest option is arranging pick-up through your dive center as part of your diving package. This eliminates the need to negotiate prices or navigate to your accommodation after the boat journey.

Return Journey from Nusa Penida to Bali

The return journey from Nusa Penida to Bali follows the same process in reverse. Fast boats depart from Nusa Penida harbors throughout the day, with most operators offering 4-6 daily departures. Book your return ticket when purchasing your outbound ticket for convenience and better prices.

Important Considerations for Return Journey:

•       Book return tickets in advance, especially during peak season

•       Arrange harbor transport from your accommodation ahead of time

•       Allow extra time buffer if connecting to flights from Bali

•       Morning returns generally offer calmer seas than afternoon departures

•       Check weather forecast and be prepared for potential schedule changes

Safety Considerations and Weather Impact

While fast boat crossings from Bali to Nusa Penida are generally safe, the Badung Strait can experience challenging conditions. Operators prioritize safety and may cancel or delay departures in dangerous conditions. Be prepared for potential schedule changes, especially during rainy season.

Safety Tips:

•       Always wear provided life jacket during crossing

•       Stay seated during the crossing

•       Keep children supervised and properly secured

•       Be prepared for cancellations during severe weather

•       Build flexibility into travel plans for weather contingencies

Planning Your Diving Trip to Nusa Penida

When planning your diving trip to Nusa Penida, factor in the fast boat journey as part of your overall itinerary. Allow sufficient time for transport, and consider staying multiple days on the island to maximize your diving opportunities. Nusa Penida offers world-class diving with manta rays, Mola Mola sunfish, healthy reefs, and diverse marine life.

Most divers spend 3-7 days on Nusa Penida, which allows for 6-14 dives covering multiple dive sites. This also provides time to explore the island's beautiful landscapes and beaches. Learn more about what to do in Nusa Penida beyond diving, and find information about accommodation options on the island.

Book Your Nusa Penida Diving Adventure

Ready to experience the spectacular diving that Nusa Penida offers? Purple Dive Penida can help coordinate your entire trip including fast boat arrangements, accommodation, and of course amazing diving with experienced PADI instructors. We're located right on Nusa Penida, giving us intimate knowledge of the best dive sites, optimal timing for encounters with manta rays and Mola Mola, and connections with reliable transport operators.

Our comprehensive dive and stay packages can include accommodation, multiple days of diving, and all necessary equipment. Whether you're interested in fun diving or PADI courses, we can create the perfect package for your needs.