While in Bali, don’t miss the chance to discover another gem of Indonesia, the stunning Gili Trawangan in Lombok.
Gili Trawangan is renowned for its picturesque beaches and serene ambience. Yet, the island also boasts a diverse range of thrilling activities. From diving and snorkelling to experiencing the vibrant nightlife and savouring the local cuisine, there’s something to captivate every adventurer.
Thankfully, there are many safe ways to reach Gili Trawangan from Bali, with the ferry ride being the most popular. However, the cautionary tale of one foreign tourist serves as a reminder for those planning a boat journey to the island.
In a video that went viral on TikTok @laurajayetravels and has already reached 3.8 million views, Laura Jaye shared her experience of a Bali – Gili Trawangan boat ride that she considered being very bad.
@laurajayetravels Your sign to research reviews before boarding any boat in Indonesia 😭😭😭😭 #traveltrends #gilitboat #baliboats #boatsinbali #traveltours #wheretostayinbali #whattodoinbali #gilit #whattopackbackpacking ♬ Hoist The Colours – Bass Singers – Bobby Bass & Ebucs & Eric Hollaway & Daniel Brevik & The Wellermen & David Dalmonte & Luke G. Taylor & Jesse Elkins
“Your sign to research reviews before boarding any boat in Indonesia,” she wrote in the caption.
In the video, it appears that a large wave hit the boat and shook the boat quite strongly. Many passengers also looked sick and vomited.
Travelling by boat from Bali to Gili Trawangan can be a scary experience, but don’t worry; there are tips to help you avoid a frustrating experience.
If you’re from Bali, you can take a speedboat that has a regular schedule from Bali to Gili Trawangan. The price ranges from IDR 400,000 for one boat.
There is also a fast boat from Padangbai Harbor and gets off directly at Gili Trawangan. Travel time on the boat is about 1.5 hours. Another option can be through Benoa Harbor, also by boat.
There are several speedboat operators serving this route, such as BlueWater Express, Gili Getaway, and Eka Jaya Fast Boat. The advantage of using a speedboat is that you can reach Gili Trawangan faster, but the ticket price is usually higher than that of a ferry.
Speedboat departures are generally made from Serangan Harbour in Bali, which is located about 30 minutes by road from the tourist areas of Seminyak or Kuta.
Serangan Harbor also has good facilities, including a secure parking area and food stalls around the harbour. As with the Bali Ferry, it’s a good idea to book your speedboat ticket in advance to avoid running out of space.
Here are some safety measures to consider when taking a boat to Gili Trawangan
When travelling to Gili Trawangan, it is important that you pay attention to weather conditions and sea waves. Due to its exposed location in the Bali Sea, sea conditions around Gili Trawangan can be volatile.
At times, travel to the island may be disrupted by bad weather or high waves. It’s important to monitor the weather forecast and listen to the instructions of the boat operator before setting off.
If you are planning to visit the island, here are some tips that can help you enjoy a great vacation in Gili Trawangan.
1. Choose the Right Time
You should consider the right time to visit Gili Trawangan. The best season to go is between May and September when the weather is sunny and the sea water is calm. Avoid the rainy season between November and March, as there can be heavy rains and high waves.
2. Plan the Trip Well
Before leaving, plan your trip well. Decide how long you will stay on the island and make a list of the activities you want to do. This will help you optimize your time and avoid rushing while there.
3. Choose Accommodation Wisely
Gili Trawangan offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from simple inns to luxury resorts. Choose accommodation that suits your budget and preferences. Make sure you read reviews from previous guests to get a clear picture of the quality and service of the accommodation.
4. Bring Personal Medication
This tip applies especially to those of you with certain health conditions. Because the ship cannot stop in the middle of the journey to go to the pharmacy or hospital, it’s best to bring any personal medication you may need from home.
5. Avoiding Foods that Trigger Seasickness
To prevent seasickness, you should not consume foods that can trigger seasickness, such as fast food and spicy foods.
6. Chew on Something
You can chew gum or your favourite snacks to reduce seasickness when travelling on a ship.
