New Bali–Java Fast Boat Route Launches for Adventurous Tourists
In a significant boost to connectivity and tourism in the region, the much-anticipated fast boat service linking East Java and Bali has officially commenced operations. The inaugural voyage of the new public transportation route took place on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, carrying 75 tourists from Banyuwangi, East Java, to Serangan, Bali.
Faster and More Convenient Travel
This new fast boat service, operated by Express Bahari, enables passengers to travel from Banyuwangi to Denpasar in just three hours. Previously, this journey involved a short crossing of the Bali Strait followed by a minimum four-hour drive to central Denpasar, often prolonged by heavy traffic congestion along the Gilimanuk-Denpasar Highway.
I Ketut Sriawan, Head of the Denpasar Transportation Office, expressed optimism following the successful launch. "The ship is well-equipped with VIP, executive, and economy classes, and has passed safety inspections by Syahbandar. The facilities aboard the ship are in excellent condition," he explained.
Easing Traffic and Spreading Tourism
Officials anticipate that the new fast boat route will alleviate vehicle congestion in key transit areas during peak travel seasons such as Eid and Nataru. Mr. Sriawan noted, “During peak periods, the operation of fast boats can reduce vehicle build-up in Gilimanuk and from the East Java side in Ketapang, offering a valuable alternative to land transportation.”
Beyond traffic relief, the service is expected to contribute to the broader development of tourism across Bali Province. With easier access, visitors can explore destinations such as Serangan Island, central Denpasar, and even journey from Bali to Mount Ijen in East Java. This integrated transportation approach aims to diversify tourist activity and economic benefits across both regions.
Passenger Experiences and Service Details
One passenger, Budiono, who regularly travels between East Java and Central Bali for work and family reasons, shared his enthusiasm for the new service. “I usually take a land route taking five to six hours, but with this fast boat, the journey is significantly shorter,” he said.
Currently, the Banyuwangi-Denpasar route is exclusively operated by Express Bahari, with service running six days a week, excluding Tuesdays. Departures from Banyuwangi are scheduled at 9:00 a.m., while return trips from Denpasar depart at 2:00 p.m.
Expanding Sea Travel Options in Bali
Travel by fast boat has become an increasingly popular and affordable way to navigate around Bali and neighboring islands, especially given growing concerns around traffic congestion on land routes. Sanur Port in Bali already serves numerous daily fast boat departures to popular destinations, including Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan, as well as routes to Lombok and the Gili Islands. Serangan Port and Padangbai Harbor further facilitate travel to Bali’s outer islands and East Bali.
In addition, GoBoat provides daily sea taxi transfers that offer scenic and traffic-free transport options between key locations such as Canggu, Uluwatu, and Jimbaran.
Safety Considerations for Sea Travel
While sea travel offers many advantages, tourists are encouraged to check weather and wave conditions before departing. The Australian Tourism Advice Bureau, Smartraveler, recently issued updated warnings highlighting the importance of choosing reputable boat operators, reminding travelers that maritime transport may not always meet international safety standards.
Looking Ahead
The launch of this fast boat route marks a major step toward enhancing transportation infrastructure between Bali and Java, with benefits expected for tourists and locals alike. By providing a faster, safer, and more comfortable travel option across the Bali Strait, the service is poised to enrich travel experiences, ease land traffic, and support wider tourism growth across the region.
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