Fastboat to Gili Trawangan or Gili Air

Quick overview of the Fastboat to Gili Trawangan or Gili Air

Traveling from Bali to the Gili Islands is a popular adventure for those seeking a quick escape to pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. This fast boat transfer by Dejulius Tour offers a convenient way to hop between these islands, with options to arrive at either Gili Trawangan or Gili Air. While it’s praised for being well-organized and budget-friendly, some travelers have expressed concerns about sea conditions and the overall value if not planning an overnight stay.

What makes this experience appealing? We love the simplicity and affordability of this transfer, especially since it includes hotel pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicles — a real plus for comfort in the early morning. That said, the roughly 1.5-hour trip can be rough if the sea gets choppy, so it’s best for those comfortable with occasional waves. This tour suits travelers who want a straightforward, cost-effective way to get to Gili without fuss, especially if you’re planning a short day trip or just need reliable transport.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $39 per person, this fast boat transfer offers good value for budget travelers.
• Hotel Pickup Included: Pickup from your Ubud hotel makes the journey hassle-free.
• Travel Time: The trip takes approximately 1.5 hours, with a total of about 3 hours on the island.
• Flexible Departure Times: Options at 7 am or 10:30 am cater to different schedules.
• Weather Dependence: The ride can be turbulent; rough seas might make the trip uncomfortable or challenging.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book about 4 weeks ahead, indicating its popularity.

Detailed Review of the Fastboat to Gili Islands Experience

How the Tour Works: From Ubud to the Gili Islands

The experience begins with a hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, a feature that brightens the early morning start. Depending on your hotel’s location, pickups are scheduled either at 7 am or 10:30 am, giving some flexibility to fit your plans. The journey from Ubud to Padang Bai harbor typically takes around an hour, during which you can relax and enjoy the scenic ride.

Once at the harbor, you’ll check-in and register for your trip. The process is straightforward, with staff generally organized and friendly. You’ll then board the fast boat, which is designed to whisk you across the water efficiently. The boats are generally well-organized, and the group size is capped at 45 travelers, helping maintain a comfortable environment.

What to Expect During the Sea Voyage

The 1.5-hour trip to Gili Trawangan or Gili Air generally passes smoothly, but it’s vital to be prepared for possible rough sea conditions. One reviewer, XXX_N, warned about the big waves and advised staying at least one night if you want to enjoy the island fully, citing the return journey as especially turbulent. If you’re prone to seasickness, bringing medication or choosing a calm-weather day might be wise.

The boat ride offers scenic views of the surrounding waters, and many travelers find it exciting rather than uncomfortable. The experience is quite different from a leisurely ferry — it’s quick, sometimes bumpy, but gets you on the island fast.

Arrival and Island Activities

Once on Gili, you’ll spend around three hours exploring the island. The islands are renowned for their coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling, although the transfer itself doesn’t include activities — you’re on your own to swim, cycle, or relax.

Gili Trawangan is the liveliest of the Gilis, offering nightlife and vibrant beach scenes, while Gili Air provides a more relaxed vibe. The limited time means you’ll need to prioritize what to do; if you’re keen on snorkeling, bring your gear or rent it on the island.

The Return Journey and Overall Experience

The trip back can mirror the morning’s experience, with some travelers mentioning the potential for rough waves on the way back. The overall time commitment including pickup, check-in, and travel is around 4-5 hours, which for many is a good day trip rather than an overnight stay unless you plan to extend your time on the island.

One reviewer, Sabine_G, commended the well-organized nature of the transfer, noting that everything runs smoothly and the staff is friendly. This efficiency makes the experience suitable for those who prefer a reliable, no-fuss transfer.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $39 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering it includes hotel pickup, registration, and the boat ride. Compared to other options, it offers a cost-effective way to reach the Gili Islands quickly. However, the value may diminish if you don’t plan to stay overnight, as some suggest that a one-day trip isn’t enough to truly enjoy what the islands have to offer.

Sea conditions are a significant factor. If you’re unlucky with rough weather, the journey might be less comfortable or even delayed. It’s best to book with flexibility in mind, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance — a good safety net.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This transfer is perfect for travelers staying in Ubud who want a quick, affordable way to reach Gili Trawangan or Gili Air. It’s ideal if you’re planning a short visit and are comfortable with potential sea roughness. The inclusion of hotel pickup and the straightforward booking process make it appealing for those who prefer a hassle-free experience.

On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more scenic or leisurely trip, or plan to stay overnight, you might want to explore other options that include longer ferry rides or overnight accommodations.

The Sum Up

This fast boat transfer offers an affordable, efficient way to hop from Bali to the Gili Islands, especially suited for travelers on a budget or those with limited time. The convenience of hotel pickup, combined with the quick journey, makes it a practical choice for day-trippers. The main trade-off is the unpredictable nature of sea conditions — if you’re lucky, it’s an exhilarating ride, but rough seas can make it less comfortable.

For those who value reliability and value, this trip delivers. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable with a bit of wave action, and who plan to enjoy a brief visit to the islands rather than a lengthy stay. If you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss transfer that gets you there quickly without breaking the bank, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

FAQ

Is this transfer suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially if you’re comfortable with boat rides. However, those prone to seasickness should prepare accordingly, as the trip can be bumpy in rough weather.

What are the departure times?
You can choose between 7 am or 10:30 am pickups, depending on your hotel location and schedule preferences.

Does the price include activities on the island?
No, the transfer is just transportation. You’re free to enjoy snorkeling, cycling, swimming, or relaxing once on the island, but those require separate arrangements.

How long is the total trip?
Including pickup, check-in, boat ride, and on-island time, expect about 4-5 hours total.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Ubud hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like water, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly snorkeling gear if you plan to snorkel. Also, consider motion sickness remedies if you’re sensitive.

Are there any group size restrictions?
Yes, the maximum group size is 45 travelers, which helps maintain comfort and efficiency.

What happens if the sea conditions are bad?
If weather or sea conditions are poor, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled. The tour offers a full refund if canceled due to weather.

Is it worth it if I only stay on the island for a few hours?
Yes, for a one-day trip, this transfer is quite practical. However, many reviews suggest staying longer to truly enjoy the islands, so plan accordingly.

In summary, this fast boat transfer from Ubud to the Gili Islands by Dejulius Tour provides a reliable, budget-friendly way to start your island adventure. While it’s not for everyone — especially those seeking a leisurely or scenic ferry — it’s a solid choice for travelers prioritizing quick, straightforward transport with minimal fuss.