Bali’s boat tours range from practical island-hopping ferries to memorable sunset dinner cruises. I’ve found the fast boats to Nusa Penida and the Gili Islands to be efficient and well-organized, typically departing from Sanur or Benoa Harbor. For pure enjoyment, the sunset dinner cruises along Benoa Harbor stand out – they offer great value with their combination of Balinese entertainment and fresh seafood buffets. Private charters to Komodo Island, while pricier, deliver an intimate experience with Indonesia’s most famous reptiles.
I especially love the half-day trips around Nusa Penida for their crystal-clear snorkeling spots and chances to see manta rays. The evening cruises on traditional wooden boats consistently impress with their authentic feel and attentive service.
Let’s explore the most worthwhile boat tours Bali has to offer.
Key Points
- Nusa Penida Tours offer an 8-10 hour adventure with stunning highlights like Kelingking Beach and Angels Billabong at a starting price of $30.61 per person.
- Komodo Islands Adventures provide a private 2-day tour on a traditional wooden boat, allowing you to trek and see Komodo dragons for $750 per person.
- Water Activities in Bali include a full-day aquatic adventure from Benoa harbor with snorkeling, banana boat rides, and a cultural tour of Lembongan Island for $131.50 per person.
- Fast boat transfers are available between Bali and destinations like Gili Air and Gili Gede, with prices starting at $48.18 per person and free cancellation options.
- Unique dining experiences in Bali range from pirate dinner cruises to romantic 5-course meal cruises, offering a combination of scenic views and live entertainment.
Bali: Best of Nusa Penida Full-Day Tour by Fast Boat
The Bali: Best of Nusa Penida Full-Day Tour by Fast Boat offers travelers an opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Nusa Penida, a scenic island located off the southeastern coast of Bali.
Priced from $30.61 per person, the tour lasts 8-10 hours, with the possibility of extending up to 12.5 hours. Highlights include Kelingking Beach, Angels Billabong, and Pasih Uug Beach.
The tour provides transportation via fast boat and air-conditioned van, and features optional add-ons like coffee tasting and professional photography.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5 based on over 1,200 reviews, the tour is praised for its charismatic guides, scenic views, and relaxation at less crowded beaches.
Read our full review: Bali: Best of Nusa Penida Full-Day Tour by Fast Boat Review
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Komodo Islands: Private 2-Day Tour on a Wooden Boat
This private 2-day tour of the Komodo Islands offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the remote archipelago aboard a traditional wooden boat. Priced at $750 per person, the tour includes round-trip transfers, park fees, meals, and snorkeling equipment.
Highlights include trekking to see Komodo dragons, snorkeling at Bidadari Island, and visiting Padar and Komodo Island.
While the boats prioritize authenticity over modern amenities, they provide basic comfort with toilets, showers, and climate control.
Customers praise the knowledgeable guides and wildlife sightings but note some concerns about boat cleanliness.
Read our full review: Komodo Islands: Private 2-Day Tour on a Wooden Boat Review
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Bali Benoa: Lembongan Reef & Water Activities Day Cruise
Offering a full-day aquatic adventure, the Bali Benoa: Lembongan Reef & Water Activities Day Cruise immerses guests in the natural splendor of Lembongan Bay.
Departing from Benoa harbor, the luxury catamaran whisks travelers to a world of snorkeling, banana boat rides, and a cultural tour of Lembongan Island.
The experience includes an international buffet lunch, access to a 35-meter waterslide, and optional activities like scuba diving and an underwater helmet walk.
With round-trip hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, and insurance included, this cruise offers a hassle-free way to explore Bali’s stunning marine environment.
Considering the ample inclusions and positive reviews, the $131.50 per person price point represents excellent value for a full day of aquatic adventures.
Read our full review: Bali Benoa: Lembongan Reef & Water Activities Day Cruise Review
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Bali To/From Gili Air: Fast Boat With Optional Bali Transfer
Fast boat services whisk travelers between Bali and Gili Air, providing a convenient and efficient way to explore these island destinations.
Priced from $48.18 per person, the 2.5-3 hour journey offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
Complimentary hotel pickup in select Bali areas is included, while additional fees apply for pickups from other locations.
Customers can expect spacious, clean, and safe boats with generous luggage allowance and insurance coverage.
The service has earned an impressive 4.7/5 rating, with reviews praising the organized operations and helpful staff.
Additional fees apply for extra baggage and transportation to/from hotels in Lombok or Gili Islands.
Read our full review: Bali To/From Gili Air: Fast Boat With Optional Bali Transfer Review
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Bali and Nusa Penida: Fast Boat Transfers
Travelers can conveniently book fast boat transfers between Bali and Nusa Penida, with fares starting at just $29.50 per person.
The 45-minute journey offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” option.
The service includes hotel transfers from various Bali locations and departs Serangan Port at 10 AM, returning from Nusa Penida at 2:15 PM.
Passengers can explore Nusa Penida’s unspoiled nature, with activities like diving, snorkeling, and surfing.
The boats meet international safety standards and have a baggage allowance of 25 kilograms per person.
Customer reviews praise the organization and value, with an overall rating of 4.7/5.
Read our full review: Bali and Nusa Penida: Fast Boat Transfers Review
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Komodo Island: Private 3-Day Tour With Boat and Hotel Stay
The 3-day private tour of the Komodo Islands allows travelers to get up close and personal with the renowned Komodo dragons. Priced from $950 per person, the tour includes airport transfers, overnight stays on a private boat, meals, and activities like snorkeling, trekking, and visiting Komodo Island.
Travelers can expect an authentic boat experience, though amenities may vary. The tour is highly rated for its incredible wildlife encounters and natural beauty, though the value for money and guide service could be improved based on customer feedback.
Flights to Labuan Bajo should be booked in the morning to allow for rescheduling of half-day land tours if needed.
Read our full review: Komodo Island: Private 3-Day Tour With Boat and Hotel Stay Review
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Fast Boat Transfers Between Bali and Lombok
Traversing between the islands of Bali and Lombok has become a breeze with the availability of fast boat transfers. Priced from $48.18 per person, these boat rides offer a seamless experience, with a generous luggage allowance and optional hotel pickup and drop-off.
The 1.5-hour journey departs daily from Serangan Harbor in Bali, arriving at Teluk Kodek Port in Lombok. Customers can conveniently cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or opt to pay later.
With an impressive 4.5/5 rating based on 73 reviews, the fast boat service has received high praise for its transportation, service, and organization. Passengers can also arrange for local taxis at the Lombok port for further exploration.
Read our full review: Fast Boat Transfers Between Bali and Lombok Review
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Bali: Pirate Dinner Cruise With Shows, Games, and Music
For a unique dining and entertainment experience in Bali, the Pirate Dinner Cruise offers an evening of shows, games, and music against the backdrop of the night sky.
Priced from $33.68 per person, the cruise features an international buffet dinner, live entertainment like Balinese dance and fire shows, and a pirate-themed atmosphere.
Inclusions cover a welcome drink, souvenir, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
While reviews are mixed, with feedback on transportation and value for money being less favorable, guests generally praise the great entertainment and tasty food.
Customers should note the port passenger pass required on-site.
Read our full review: Bali: Pirate Dinner Cruise With Shows, Games, and Music Review
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Ubud: Romantic Photo Moments on a Boat
Designed for couples seeking a romantic photo experience, this private boat cruise on Ubud’s tranquil pond offers the perfect setting to capture memorable moments.
Lasting an hour, the cruise includes a relaxing afternoon tea with sparkling wine, sweet and savory dishes, and the opportunity to hand-feed fish.
Panoramic views of the tropical garden backdrop set the stage for romantic selfies, while a professional photographer or drone can be arranged for even better results.
Priced from $67.42 per group of up to 2 people, this is a likely sell-out experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With excellent reviews for food, service, and organization, it’s an ideal activity for couples visiting Ubud.
Read our full review: Ubud: Romantic Photo Moments on a Boat Review
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Benoa Bali: Sunset Dinner Cruise With Show and Live Music
Travelers seeking a memorable sunset experience in Bali will find the Benoa Bali Sunset Dinner Cruise an enchanting option. Priced from $81.25 per person, this 4-hour cruise offers an all-you-can-eat buffet, lively entertainment, and breathtaking ocean views.
Guests can enjoy a welcome drink upon boarding, then savor international dishes as they watch the sun dip below the horizon. The cruise also features a family-friendly cabaret show with live music and a DJ.
With convenient hotel pickups and free cancellation, this sunset cruise is an excellent value for money. While some feedback suggests limited cruise distance and harbor views, overall, it’s a delightful way to experience Bali’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Benoa Bali: Sunset Dinner Cruise With Show and Live Music Review
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Bali Benoa: 5-Course Romantic Dinner Cruise With Live Music
The Bali Benoa: 5-Course Romantic Dinner Cruise with Live Music offers couples a luxurious and intimate dining experience on the waters of Benoa Harbor.
Priced from $90 per person, the 3-hour cruise includes a welcome drink, floral lei, and canapés, followed by a tropical 5-course dinner with live musical entertainment.
The cruise accommodates a maximum of 8 couples, ensuring a personalized atmosphere.
Air-conditioned hotel transfers are available, and pickups are provided from various locations in South Bali.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 51 reviews, the cruise is praised for its exceptional service, great food, and romantic ambiance.
Read our full review: Bali Benoa: 5-Course Romantic Dinner Cruise With Live Music Review
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Bali To/From Gili Gede: Fast Boat (Optional Bali Transfer)
This fast boat transfer from Bali to Gili Gede offers a convenient and time-saving option for travelers.
Priced at $61.29 per person, the journey takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and a reserve now, pay later option.
The transfer includes free pick-up and drop-off in select areas of Bali, with an optional hotel pickup. Travelers will enjoy stunning coastal views and a generous 25kg luggage allowance.
The service has an overall rating of 4.3/5 from 24 reviews, with positive feedback on organization, efficiency, and friendly service.
Departures are daily from Gili Gede harbor, with the option to arrange independent transportation to and from hotels.
Read our full review: Bali To/From Gili Gede: Fast Boat (Optional Bali Transfer) Review
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Recap
Bali offers a variety of cruises and boat tours to suit different interests and budgets. From day trips to the Komodo Islands to romantic dinner cruises, there’s something for all. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a unique dining experience, Bali’s boat tours provide an unforgettable way to explore the island’s stunning coastline and neighboring islands.