Java Bali Ferry | Crossing the Bali Strait between Banyuwangi and Gilimanuk in Indonesia

Discover what it’s like to hop on the Java Bali Ferry, an idyllic way to cross the two islands in Indonesia

The ferry that transfers between Ketapang in Java and Gilimanuk in Bali is a great way to cross the Bali Strait. Ferries operate 24 hours a day every 15-20 minutes, weather permitting. Transport is permitted on these boats at additional cost; so cars, trucks and motorbikes can also get on the ferry to cross the strait. The Java-Bali ferry ride is 40-45 minutes long.

Fun fact: Many tourist AC bus companies operate from the main towns in the islands and tend to use the Java-Bali ferry to cross and reach various points in both the islands. The price of the ferry crossing is usually included in the bus ticket.

There are flights between many cities in Java and Ngurah Rai International Airport (also known as Denpasar Airport) in Bali. But if you are on a budget and enjoy slow-travelling, then you can explore and reach certain parts of Indonesia via ferries.

In Java, the Ketapang port is conveniently located near bus and train stations, which is turn have connections with other places on the island such as Banyuwangi (the town nearest to the Ketapang Port), Probolinggo (close to Mount Bromo), Yogyakarta (an entry point for Borobudur), Malang, Bandung, as well as Jakarta (capital city of Indonesia).

In Bali, you will alight at or hop into the ferry from the western-most point called Gilimanuk. Once once you cross the road from the harbour and walk 450 metres, you’ll find the Gilimanuk Bus Terminal. From here you can hop in a bemo (small minibus) or a private taxi to various parts of Bali such as Ubud (4 hours journey), Lovina (2 hours journey), Amlapura for access to Amed and Tulamben (5 hours journey) and even Denpasar (4 hours journey).

Note: Once you exit Gilimanuk port, you’ll find many taxi and bemo drivers who will hound you to hop on a ride with them by shouting various prices. Some of them may even create tantrums if you choose not to travel with them. Go for the option offering the lowest price. Most of the buses are old and not air-conditioned, but they operate well for the price you’re paying for.

How much does the Java Bali ferry cost?

You can simply arrive at the port and buy a ticket, so pre-booking is not required. The one-way price of the Java Bali ferry for adults is IDR 6,500 (USD 0.5) and for children is IDR 4,500 (USD 0.3). Further details on the pricing of the vehicles to get on the ferry is outlined in the price chart below:

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