This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about how to get to Nusa Penida island from Bali. With a variety of departure and arrival ports to choose from, finding the right fast boat company can be a challenge. In this article, you will find detailed information on the different ports, fast boat companies, their schedules, and fast boat ticket prices. We aim to make your journey to Nusa Penida smooth and stress-free. This article is part of a series that provides practical information on the island of Nusa Penida. If you plan to travel directly to Nusa Lembongan, please read the article on how to get to Nusa Lembongan instead.
I first crossed from Bali to Nusa Penida in 2015, when the island had just two hotels. I’ve lived in Bali since 2020 (on a KITAS) and make the trip almost every week — I own the Adiwana Warnakali dive resort and the Amok Sunset bar on Nusa Penida, and partner with the Dune Penida dive center, so these boats are part of my routine. Over the years I’ve tested nearly every fast boat operator from both Sanur and Kusamba. This guide reflects what I actually see on the water: current 2026 schedules, real prices, and the operators I personally trust.
Planning a trip to Nusa Penida? For a complete overview of the island — including what to see, where to stay and itinerary ideas — read the Nusa Penida Travel Guide.
How to Get from Bali to Nusa Penida (Quick Answer)
The easiest way to get from Bali to Nusa Penida is by fast boat from Sanur. The journey takes 45 minutes and costs around 150,000 to 250,000 IDR.
A faster option is the boat from Kusamba (~25 minutes), but it is less convenient due to its location. Ferries from Padang Bai are slower and are mainly used to transport vehicles.
| Route / Port | Type | Duration | Price (one-way) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sanur → Banjar Nyuh | Fast boat | 45 min | 150K–250K IDR | Most departures; Sanur, Seminyak, Canggu |
| Kusamba → Toyapakeh / Sampalan | Fast boat | ~25 min | 100K–150K IDR | Fastest; from Amed or Sidemen |
| Padang Bai → Sampalan | Roro ferry | ~90 min | ~120K IDR (scooter + 2 pax) | Bringing a scooter or car |
Since the new Sanur fast boat terminal opened, boarding has become much more comfortable, with no need to walk through the water.
Below, I explain the real ticket prices, when to book in advance, which operators I trust, and how to choose the right departure and arrival port depending on where you stay in Bali and Nusa Penida.
More than 90 boats depart daily from Sanur, with additional departures from Kusamba, offering plenty of flexibility throughout the day. All operators provide life jackets and follow standard safety procedures, making the crossing generally safe and easy.
What is the price for a boat trip from Bali to Nusa Penida ?
Traveling to Nusa Penida from Bali varies depending on the transportation company, with one-way ticket prices typically ranging from IDR 150,000 to IDR 200,000. If you hold a KITAS (Indonesian residence permit), you may qualify for a discounted fare of IDR 125,000 from Sanur.
Alternatively, a boat ride from Kusamba to Nusa Penida costs IDR 100,000 to IDR 150,000. Some companies offer port transfer services as part of the ticket, but these are usually more expensive.
Be cautious, as you’ll encounter agents offering to book tickets, but these typically come at a markup compared to public rates.
Book Online for the Best Price
Be cautious when buying tickets directly at the port. Some operators, including Axe Stone, charge up to IDR 250,000 for a one-way ticket at the ticket booth.
By booking online through 12go, you can often find the same crossing for IDR 150,000, including reputable operators such as Angel Billabong or Maruti Express.
Upon arrival in Nusa Penida, all visitors must also pay a local tourism fee of IDR 25,000, which helps fund road maintenance and infrastructure on the island.
Buy your ticket at an electronic kiosk in Sanur
Electronic kiosks have recently been installed inside the main building of Sanur Port. They can be convenient for buying a last-minute ticket, as the kiosk will offer the next available departure. However, only a limited number of ferry companies are available for purchase, and the ticket will be more expensive than buying online via 12go.
Do you need to book your boat trip in advance?
When planning your trip to Nusa Penida, I highly recommend booking your boat tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or when local ceremonies are scheduled. Boats can fill up quickly, leaving limited or no availability on the day of travel. Additionally, boat services may be suspended during major holidays such as Nyepi, Nyepi Laut, Galungan, or Kuningan, so double-check schedules in advance.
Arrive at the port early to avoid delays or missed departures. Boats typically leave on time and sometimes even a bit ahead of schedule. For smooth planning and great deals, I recommend using 12go. It offers competitive prices and a user-friendly booking experience.
I took the photo below on June 5, 2026, at 4:50 p.m. It was not even the peak season, but all the companies’ last boats of the day were fully booked. This is a great example of why booking in advance is essential.
Fast Boat Timetable Overview
Several options are available for traveling from Sanur to Nusa Penida. In this section, we’ve provided a list of the best fast boat companies connecting the two destinations, along with their schedules. However, please note that these schedules are subject to change, so verify the timings before embarking on your trip. Fast boat services from Sanur to Nusa Penida currently depart at 6:30 am, with the last departure at 5:00 pm. Similarly, Nusa Penida to Sanur services begin at 7:00 am and conclude with the last departure at 5:00 pm. I use Maruti Express and Angel Billabong, the most dependable fast boat companies, known for their safe and efficient services. And Semabu Hills, if Maruti and Angel Billabong are fully booked or do not fit my schedule.
Sanur to Nusa Penida
Angel Billabong fast cruise
- from Bali to Nusa Penida (Banjar Nyuh) : 7.30 am, 8.30 am, 10 am, 2.15 pm and 5 pm
- Nusa Penida to Bali (Sanur) : 7.20 am, 9 am, 1 pm, 4 pm and 5 pm
- +62 82 144 048 323
Maruti Express
- from Bali to Nusa Penida (Banjar Nyuh) : 7.30 am, 8.30 am, 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm
- Nusa Penida to Bali (Sanur) : 7.30 am, 9.15 am, 10.30 am, 12.30 pm, 4 pm and 4.30 pm
- +62 81 246 892 524 (Sanur)
- +62 83 4022 8883 (Nusa Penida)
Semabu Hills
- from Bali to Nusa Penida (Banjar Nyuh) : 6.30 am, 7 am, 7.30 am, 8 am, 8.30 am, 9 am, 1 pm and 3 pm
- Nusa Penida to Bali (Sanur) : 8 am, 12 pm, 1.30 pm, 2.30 pm, 3 pm, 3.30 pm, 4 pm, 4.30 pm and 5 pm
Axe Stone
- from Bali to Nusa Penida (Banjar Nyuh) : 7 am, 7.30 am, 8 am, 8.30 am, 9 am, 11 am and 3.30 pm
- Nusa Penida to Bali (Sanur) : 9.15 am, 2.30 pm, 3.30 pm, 4 pm, 4.25 pm, 4.30 pm and 5 pm
The Tanis
- from Bali to Nusa Penida (Banjar Nyuh) : 8.00 am, 9 am and 12 pm
- Nusa Penida to Bali (Sanur) : 10 am, 4 pm and 4.30 pm
Ray Fish
- from Bali to Nusa Penida (Banjar Nyuh) : 8.30 am
- Nusa Penida to Bali (Sanur) : 4.30 pm
- +62 82 339 616 768
- rayfishfatscruises@gmail.com
Idola Express
- from Bali to Nusa Penida (Sampalan) : 8.15 am
- Sampalan to Bali (Sanur) : 1 pm and 4.30 pm
- WhatsApp : +62 81 808 072 488
- email : info@idolaexpress.com
From Kusamba to Sampalan
Gangga Express
- Kusamba to Sampalan : 6.30 am, 7 am, 8 am, 9 am, 10.30 am, 12.30 pm, 2 pm, 3.45 pm and 5 pm
- Sampalan to Kusamba : 6.30 am, 7 am, 7.30 am, 8 am, 9.30 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm and 4 pm
The Angkal
- Kusamba to Sampalan : 6.30 am, 7 am, 8 am, 9.30 am, 10.30 am, 11.45 am, 1.45 pm, 4 pm and 5 pm
- Sampalan to Kusamba : 6.30 am, 7 am, 7.30 am, 8 am, 9.30 am, 10:45 am, 12.45 pm, 2.30 pm and 4 pm.
Sekarjaya
- Kusamba to Sampalan : 7.15 am, 8 am, 11 am, 2 pm and 4 pm
- Sampalan to Kusamba : 7 am, 8 am, 10:30 am, 1.30 pm and 3.30 pm.
Which port in Bali and Nusa Penida?
The fast boat companies have different departure ports in Bali and arrival ports in Nusa Penida. Although this provides you with much flexibility in planning your trip, it may also complicate your choice of departure and arrival ports.
The 2 departure ports from Bali
- Sanur Beach (Jalan Matahari Terbit): Most fast boat companies leave from this brand new port.
- Kusamba port is located near Padang Bai. Some boat companies that serve Toyapakeh harbour and Sampalan leave from here. Boarding is from a floating pontoon. The crossing is much shorter (around 25 minutes), and the boats are very comfortable.
The 3 arrival ports at Nusa Penida
- Banjar Nyuh is the port located near Toyapakeh, where most fast boat companies arrive.
- Sampalan is located in the northern part of the island.
- Buyuk, located next to Sampalan. Only some boat companies moor here.
How to choose the correct port?
Choosing the correct port can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey when planning a trip to Nusa Penida. If you’re coming from Amed or Sidemen, Kusamba is the best departure port. Sanur Beach is the ideal option for Sanur, Seminyak, or Canggu. If you’re heading to Sampalan, Buyuk, Ped, or Atuh Beach, choose Sampalan as your port of arrival. For Ped, Toyapakeh, or Crystal Bay, go for Banjar Nyuh Harbour.
Drop off your scooter in Sanur or rent your scooter in Nusa Penida
If you have rented your scooter from Bikago, you can drop it off at the Sanur port. Bikago is a reputable company that has been offering high-quality scooters and motorcycles along with insurance and efficient customer service since 2014. You can also rent a scooter from Bikago in Nusa Penida. You can pick it up and then drop it off at the Toyapakeh port without any charge.
Getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) is advisable if you plan to rent a motorbike, as it provides additional safety and insurance coverage. You can apply for an IDP online in less than 8 minutes here.
Ferry to Nusa Penida
Reaching Penida by ferry from Padang Bai is also possible, especially if you want to travel by scooter. But renting a scooter in Nusa Penida is usually easier, albeit slightly more expensive, than in Bali. The ferry boat is called Roro. It operates from Padang Bai to Nusa Penida twice daily, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., except on Sundays, when only the 10:00 a.m. ferry operates. The price is around 120k for a scooter and two passengers, and the crossing takes around 90 minutes, but the ferry is often late.
You need to book the ferry to Nusa Penida for a car, but this is unnecessary if you are traveling with your scooter. Please arrive around 9 am and collect your ticket from one of the agents displaying the “online ticket” sign. He will give you a ticket with a QR code that you must show to enter the port. And the (long) wait will begin. The last time I took the ferry boat to bring my scooter to Nusa Penida, I waited until 10:45 am to board (after the trucks and cars). The ferry to Nusa Penida left Padang Bai at 11:15 am and arrived in Sampalan around 12:45 pm.
Ferry boat from Nusa Penida
To take the ferry boat from Nusa Penida to Padang Bai, you must arrive at Sampalan port before 7 am. You will board around 7:30 am. The ferry will then depart around 8:15 am, arriving near Padang Bai around 9:45 am. The ferry then waits for its landing dock to become available, typically around 10:30 am.
What to do, where to go in Nusa Penida ?
There is a lot of things to do once you’re on the island. It is a paradise for scuba divers, the landscape is great and there are many adventures and tours available! I recommend that you read my guide on the 15 favorite places to visit in Nusa Penida. You can also check out my top 6 places directly:
- the iconic T-Rex Kelingking Beach
- the amazing Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong
- Crystal Bay, perfect spot for diving, snorkeling and awesome sunsets.
- Atuh Beach is a wonderful and still off-the-beaten-track beach.
- Adiwana Warnakali PADI 5 star dive resort, to stay in a brand new boutique hotel and/or dive with a PADI 5 star IDC.
- Amok sunset bar and restaurant, a cool place to see the sunset with a cocktail during happy hour.
The flexible boat schedule allows you to have a full day in Nusa Penida, but I recommend staying longer. With just one day, you’ll most likely spend a lot of time on the road, rushing from one viewpoint to another. I would suggest staying at least one night, in one of the many hotels on the island, enjoying a sunset on this beautiful island, and maybe even going snorkeling or diving with manta rays at Manta Point the day after, or enjoying a swim at Crystal Bay!
Day tours
You can book with Klook a private day tour in Nusa Penida from Nusa Penida or if you want to make even less effort a day tour to Nusa Penida from Bali. You will also find many options on GetYourGuide. However, if you’re looking for a more cost-effective option, please send me a message and Iwill provide you with a contact who can arrange a land tour and/or a snorkeling tour with a reliable driver/boat captain.
Transparency: I personally own Adiwana Warnakali and Amok Sunset, and partner with Dune Penida. I mention them because I actually run them — not as paid placements.
Where to stay in Nusa Penida ?
When I first visited Nusa Penida in 2015, there were only two hotels on the island. Now, more than 400 are listed on Booking.com. So the choice is not always easy. Read the selection of my favorite places to stay in Nusa Penida. They are all located between Toyapakeh and Crystal Bay because it is more authentic and less busy than the north coast.
Adiwana Warnakali dive resort
I run Adiwana Warnakali Dive Resort, a boutique cliffside retreat I built above the turquoise waters of Nusa Penida, with stunning ocean views and direct access to some of Bali’s best dive sites. I designed it for an intimate atmosphere and a top-notch dive center — beautifully appointed suites and an infinity pool overlooking Mount Agung. We partner with the Dune Penida 5-star PADI dive center, which runs personalized dive experiences, including trips to iconic spots like Manta Point and Crystal Bay for beginners and certified divers.
Adiwana Warnakali was recently ranked #12 in Asia for small boutique hotels by Tripadvisor and has been recognized as one of the “Best of the Best Hotels 2025.” Booking directly on their website using the code “AWK10” will get you a 10% discount.
How to get from Nusa Penida to the Gili Islands?
If you’re planning a trip to both the Gili Islands and Nusa Penida, several fast boat companies connect the Gili Islands and the Penida Islands. One of the best options is Eka Jaya, which offers daily service between these islands. Eka Jaya utilizes spacious and comfortable fast boats equipped with four powerful engines, enabling quick and comfortable travel. The boats are 23 meters long and can accommodate up to 210 passengers.
Eka Jaya fast boat departs from Nusa Penida at 10:30 am and stops at Padang Bai and Sengiggi before reaching the Gilis around 2 pm. On the return journey, you’ll leave Gili Trawangan at 11 am and arrive at Nusa Penida by 3 pm.
Direct boats between Penida and Gili islands
If you prefer a direct trip from Gili to Nusa Penida without stopping at Padang Bai, another good option is Semaya One. This boat also offers daily service, allowing you to reach the Gilis quickly and efficiently. The direct trip leaves Nusa Penida at 10 am and arrives at the Gilis by 11:45 am. On the way back, the boat leaves the Gilis at noon and returns to Nusa Penida by 2:30 pm. If you don’t mind stopping at Padang Bai, Semaya One operates another boat that leaves the Gilis at 9 am and arrives at Nusa Penida by 11:50 am, then departs from Nusa Penida at 1 pm and arrives back at the Gilis by 3:15 pm.
Other options
In the 1950s, cartoonist Bob de Moor created a series of comic strips about the adventurer Barelli. Arrival on the island was then made by sailboat. The ferry should go a little faster… or not.
There are also public or private boat connections from Nusa Lembongan to Nusa Penida (about 60k per person).
Nusa Penida Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Nusa Penida with our local expert guide: beaches, diving sites, hotels, transport tips, itineraries and seasonal advice.
Where to stay in Nusa Penida
How to choose where to stay in Nusa Penida among the 500 listed hotels. 5 stars, boutique hotel, glamping or charming bungalows?
Top 15 to see in Nusa Penida
After more than 10 years exploring Nusa Penida, I’ve updated my list of the 15 most incredible places to see on the island — from stunning beaches to dramatic cliffs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the fastest ports to travel from Bali to Nusa Penida?
The most popular port is Sanur, with numerous daily fast boats crossing in approximately 45 minutes. Kusamba is an alternative — faster, and potentially better depending on where you stay in Bali.
How long does the boat trip from Bali to Nusa Penida take?
Fast boats from Sanur typically take 45 minutes, while those from Kusamba can take 25 minutes. Always allow extra time for boarding.
How much does a ticket to Nusa Penida cost in 2026?
Prices range from 150,000 to 250,000 IDR (10–18 USD) one way, depending on the operator, season, and whether you book online or at the pier.
Is there a ferry from Bali to Nusa Penida?
Yes — the Roro car ferry runs from Padang Bai and is the way to bring a scooter or car across (around 120K IDR for a scooter and two passengers, ~90 minutes). Foot passengers are usually faster and have far more departures on the Sanur fast boats.
Do I need to book my boat ticket in advance?
During high season (July–September, December–January) and holidays, booking ahead is strongly recommended. At quieter times, you can usually buy tickets directly at the port.
Which arrival port should I choose on Nusa Penida?
Banjar Nyuh / Toyapakeh: convenient for west coast sites (Crystal Bay, Kelingking).
Sampalan / Buyuk: closer to the east coast (Diamond Beach, Atuh).
Are there extra fees when entering Nusa Penida?
Yes, visitors pay a small entrance fee at the port (around 25,000 IDR). Some attractions also charge additional parking or entry fees.
Is it safe to take the boat from Bali to Nusa Penida?
Yes, but conditions can be rough during the rainy season (December–March). Choose a reputable operator.
About the author — Blaise Jaeger
A French aerospace engineer turned Bali-based travel writer, Blaise has lived in Bali since 2020 (on a KITAS) and first discovered Nusa Penida in 2015, investing on the island from 2017. He owns the Adiwana Warnakali dive resort and the Amok Sunset bar on Nusa Penida and partners with the Dune Penida 5-star PADI dive center — so he crosses between Bali and Nusa Penida almost every week and has tested nearly every fast boat operator on the route. A PADI Master Scuba Diver with 700+ dives, he shares detailed, first-hand guides here on Nusa Penida and on My Best Places to Visit. Read more about Blaise →
Información muy útil y bien recopilada. ¿El día de Nyepi Laut no hay ningún barco que salga o llegue de Nusa Penida o si que hay pero se ve reducida su frecuencia? Además, ¿me podrías pasar el contacto del que hablas?
Un saludo,
¡Hola!
El día de Nyepi Laut no hay absolutamente ninguna actividad marítima en Nusa Penida: ningún barco entra ni sale de la isla durante toda la jornada.
Te he enviado por correo electrónico el número de WhatsApp de Roy. Él no es conductor, pero puede ayudarte a coordinar con un chofer local de confianza para traslados o excursiones.
¡Un saludo y que disfrutes tu viaje a Nusa Penida!
Hi Blaise
Very well written information. Could you help me in understanding the procedure to bring my rented car from Padang Bai to Nusa Penida?
Kind regards,
Nishchay
Hi,
If you’re considering bringing a rented car to Nusa Penida, the first step is to check with the rental company whether they allow their vehicles on the island. Roads in Nusa Penida are in significantly worse condition than in Bali, and not all rental companies permit their cars to be taken there.
Unfortunately, you can’t book the ferry transfer for the car online, so you’ll need to arrive early in the morning—ideally before 8 AM—to queue and secure a spot. You can contact the ferry operator and check current fares (approximately 300,000 IDR per car) here: https://asdp.id/kontak-kami
It will be a long and logistically complex day, so I’d only recommend bringing your car if you absolutely need it for your plans on the island.
Best,
Blaise
Genial el artículo y muy útil.
Muchísimas gracias
Podrias pasarme el contacto de ROY?
¡Hola Elena!
Muchas gracias por tu mensaje. Me alegra que el artículo te haya resultado útil. 😊
Por supuesto, te daré la información de contacto de Roy, quien puede darte algunos contactos de conductores en Nusa Penida:
Te envié su WhatsApp por correo electrónico.
No dudes en escribirle directamente; conoce la isla muy bien.
¡Que tengas un buen viaje y disfrutes de Nusa Penida!
Blaise
This is extraordinarily helpful. Much, much better than a dozen other articles I’ve read. It’s extreme well organized and well written. I’m looking forward to reading your other articles. We are going to Nusa Penida later today and staying at the Adiwana Warnikali for 3 nights. Can you please send me your contact who can organize a land tour and/or a snorkeling tour with a reliable driver/boat captain? Thank you very much. Eddy
Hi Eddy,
Thank you so much for your kind words — I’m really glad you found the article helpful!
You’ve made an excellent choice with Adiwana Warnakali — the views are stunning, the staff is wonderful, and it’s ideally located for both land and sea excursions.
For a reliable driver for land tours and/or a snorkeling trip, I recommend reaching out to Roy, a trusted local contact on the island. While he doesn’t guide tours himself, he works closely with excellent drivers and experienced boat crews, and he can organize everything for you. I sent you Roy’s contact details by email.
Roy can also propose several options for snorkeling with manta rays, including private or shared boat trips, depending on your preferences. And if you’re interested in scuba diving, he can help arrange a discovery dive for beginners or a fun dive for certified divers with one of the local dive centers.
Feel free to message him — he’s very responsive and helpful.
Wishing you a fantastic stay on Nusa Penida! Don’t hesitate if you need anything else.
Warm regards,
Blaise
Buenas tardes. Una información valiosísima, muchas gracias
Somos una familia de 5 personas y queremos viajar a Nusa Pedina llegada el 2 de agosto y salida el 3 de agosto, podrias pasarnos el contacto que mencionas?. Gracias
Buenas tardes Maria-José,
¡Muchas gracias por tu mensaje! Me alegra mucho saber que la información te ha sido útil 😊
Con gusto te paso el contacto de Roy, una persona de total confianza que puede ayudarte a organizar:
Un conductor privado en Bali o en Nusa Penida
Un tour de snorkel o buceo con mantarrayas
Otras excursiones o actividades en la isla
Puedes escribirle directamente por WhatsApp (Te envié su WhatsApp por correo electrónico).
Roy habla bien inglés y tiene experiencia ayudando a familias, así que seguro podrá ofrecerles buenas opciones para su visita del 2 al 3 de agosto.
Si necesitas más recomendaciones para Nusa Penida o Bali, no dudes en escribirme.
¡Buen viaje y que disfruten mucho!
Un saludo cordial,
Blaise
This page is so useful. Thank you so much!
Thank you so much ! The english and updated version is here : https://nusapenida.org/how-to-get-to-nusa-penida-from-bali/