If you’re planning a family trip from Bali to Gili Trawangan, you’ve probably already noticed how confusing fast boat options can be. Prices are all over the place, schedules are vague, and “official websites” don’t always give you the best deal. According to GiliTickets.com’s guide on how to get to the Gili Islands from Bali, fast boats remain the most popular and convenient way to reach the Gilis. For our family of four (two adults, two primary-aged kids), we ended up booking with a local travel agent named Komang — and it turned out to be an efficient, budget-friendly, and surprisingly smooth experience.
Here’s exactly how we did it, what we paid, and what you can expect with kids in tow.
Why Komang? Trusted by a Huge Korean Travel Community
We first heard of Komang through a massive Korean travel community (216,557 members strong!) that shares Indonesia travel tips. Dozens of people in the group praised Komang for no-hassle bookings and fair pricing — often cheaper than both online sites and walk-up agents.
We contacted him via WhatsApp, and he confirmed fast boat tickets with Wahana Gili Ocean at 300,000 IDR per person, same price for adults and kids. That’s 1.2 million IDR total for our family of four — well below the usual 450–600k IDR per ticket seen elsewhere.
📌 Want Komang’s number? Just ask in the comments — happy to share!
Car Transfer: Sanur to Padang Bai for 300k IDR
The day before our trip, Komang sent a reminder. I asked how much a private car would be from our Sanur guesthouse to Padang Bai port. He quoted 350k IDR, but I offered 300k — matching Grab’s price. He agreed immediately, no fuss.
On departure day, the driver arrived just after 7:40 AM. We left around 8:00 AM after grabbing some coffee and bread.
Traffic near Sanur was slow due to tourists heading to Nusa Penida and Lembongan, but cleared quickly after that. We reached Padang Bai at 9:30 AM, right on time for our 11:00 AM fast boat.
Check-In with Wahana Gili Ocean: Smooth but a Bit Chaotic
At Padang Bai, Wahana staff quickly tagged our bags and loaded them into a separate truck for the boat. It felt chaotic but organized.
Check-in opened at 9:47 AM. We showed our WhatsApp confirmation and paid 1.2 million IDR in cash.
We received printed QR-code tickets and lanyards for all four of us.
Then we paid 30,000 IDR per person in port fees (10k for Padang Bai + 20k for Gili T), cash only. Don’t lose the receipt — they check it during boarding.
Boarding: Families First, But Be Ready for Line Cutters
At about 10:50 AM, staff called families with kids to the front. Some adult tour groups tried to cut the line, but we made it on early.
Staff checked our Padang Bai receipt, collected our tickets, and asked us to return the lanyards.
On the Fast Boat: Calm Waters, Happy Kids
Most passengers go to the lower deck, but we asked about sitting up top and were guided there first. We got front-row seats on the upper deck.
It was sunny and a bit warm, but the ride was smooth. Fuel smells were noticeable at first, but faded quickly.
Thanks to calm seas and motion sickness tablets, none of us — including our 6- and 11-year-olds — got seasick.
Fast boat ride time: 1.5 hours, plus about 25–30 minutes waiting to dock at Gili T.
Arrival at Gili Trawangan: Smooth Finish & Horse Cart Ride
Once docked, we waited as staff unloaded bags. We found a cidomo (horse cart) for 200,000 IDR to reach our hotel, Jambuluwuk Resort.
It fit the four of us and two big suitcases, but it was a tight squeeze.
Fun fact: Gili Trawangan is a car-free island — horse carts and bicycles are the only transport!
Fast Boat Stats: What Families Should Know
Over 70% of travelers to the Gilis now choose fast boats from Bali,
During peak season, boats can sell out 2–3 days in advance, so early booking is smart — especially for families.
Final Thoughts: Should You Book with Komang?
Absolutely — if you want an affordable, simple fast boat booking from Bali to Gili with kids, Komang is a great option. We especially appreciated:
- Fixed pricing (no surprise fees)
- No deposit — paid cash at the port
- Helpful reminders and fast replies
- Flexible local driver
- Family-friendly boat company (Wahana Gili Ocean)
It wasn’t fancy, but it was safe, smooth, and cheaper than other options. For budget-conscious families, it hits the sweet spot.
Quick Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Booking agent | Komang (ask in comments) |
| Fast boat company | Wahana Gili Ocean |
| Price per person | 300,000 IDR |
| Total for 4 (2A + 2K) | 1,200,000 IDR |
| Port fees | 30,000 IDR/person (cash) |
| Private car (Sanur–Padang Bai) | 300,000 IDR |
| Departure time | 11:00 AM (arrive by 10:00 AM) |
| Pickup time (Sanur) | 7:40 AM (left ~8:00 AM) |
| Drive time to Padang Bai | ~1.5 hours |
| Fast boat time | ~1.5 hours + 30 min docking |
| Horse cart on Gili T | 200,000 IDR |
FAQ: Bali to Gili Fast Boat with Kids
Q: Are fast boats safe for children?
A: Yes, as long as the weather is good. Choose a reputable company and bring motion sickness meds just in case.
Q: Is there AC and life jackets?
A: Wahana Gili Ocean has both. The AC was working well, and life vests were available.
Q: Can you bring a stroller or luggage?
A: Yes. Porters load bags for you. A compact stroller is best, especially for getting off at the beach.
Q: Should you pre-book or buy at the port?
A: Pre-booking saves money and stress — especially during busy months.
Q: Is there a toilet on the boat?
A: Yes, but it’s small. Best to use the bathroom before boarding.
Want to compare different boat options or routes?
Check out our full guide:
👉 Bali to Gili Trawangan: Your Easy Guide to Booking a Boat to Gili Islands – Deals, Tips and My Story
till have questions or want Komang’s WhatsApp? Drop a comment below — happy to help!
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