Food & Activities

Experience and Travelogue: Taking a Boat from Bali to Nusa Penida

2024年5月29日 ✏️ 編輯文章

Our Bali/Indonesia Food, Fun, and Travel Facebook group member Mei Yi Liao shares her experience/travelogue of visiting Nusa Penida with friends, which we are pleased to edit/repost:

Mei Yi Liao提供：沙努爾的登船處，沙努港口設施很完善，上下樓都有手扶梯

Provided by Mei Yi Liao: The boarding point in Sanur, where the port facilities are well-equipped with escalators for easy access

Pre-Departure Preparations

The goal of this trip was Nusa Penida, an island renowned for its stunning landscapes. Departing from Bali, we chose to take a boat from Sanur. The new port in Sanur is labeled as ‘Sanur Harbour’ on Google Maps. The boarding area is now well-equipped, eliminating the worry of getting your feet wet when boarding—a great relief for travelers with luggage. We opted for lightweight backpacks, though many travelers brought carry-on suitcases. However, these suitcases are placed on the front deck, exposed to the sun during the voyage, and you’ll need to wait for the crew to unload them upon arrival, potentially leaving you under the scorching sun for a while. Therefore, it’s advisable to bring a sun hat and sunscreen.

Further Reading: Guide to Luggage Storage in Sanur Before Departing for Bali’s Outlying Islands

The Voyage Experience

The boat ride takes about 30 to 45 minutes, which might be challenging for those prone to seasickness. The waves make the boat rock quite a bit, so it’s recommended to take motion sickness medication beforehand. Personally, I had no issues and even enjoyed the journey. With the sea breeze gently blowing, I quickly fell asleep on the boat, finding the voyage to be a relaxing experience.

Arrival at Nusa Penida

Upon arriving at Nusa Penida, we immediately noticed someone collecting island fees at the entrance on the left. According to locals, this fee is used to maintain the island’s environment and facilities, while residents are exempt. Remember to arrange your shuttle in advance, as the port area is quite congested. We waited about 30 minutes to leave the port — a distance that would take only 2 minutes to walk — due to the heavy traffic. However, the locals seemed accustomed to this situation, patiently waiting for vehicles to disperse, showcasing their calm and polite demeanor.

The Challenges of Island Transportation

The roads on Nusa Penida are quite narrow, making it nerve-wracking when two vehicles meet. Often, one has to pull over to let the other pass. Although the roads are paved, they are uneven, making the ride feel like a rollercoaster, full of excitement. This journey gave us a full appreciation of the island’s transportation challenges, but also added to the fun and sense of adventure.

Further reading: Nusa Penida Transportation Guide: Taxis, Gojek/Grab, Private Cars, and Motorbikes

Exploring the Island’s Beauty and Cuisine

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The scenery on Nusa Penida is absolutely unmissable. Whether it’s the famous Kelingking Beach or Angel’s Billabong, these spots are breathtaking. Not only do they boast stunning natural landscapes, but also crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliff views that leave visitors enchanted.

Further reading: Bali - Nusa Penida Complete Guide: Maps, Ferries, Accommodation, Transportation, Private Cars, Activities, Photography, and Attractions

Additionally, the island’s cuisine is a highlight. We sampled local seafood dishes, which were fresh and delicious, whetting our appetites. Particularly, the grilled fish and seafood platters are signature dishes, not only flavorful but also very affordable.

Further reading: Nusa Penida Cuisine and Azure Seas: Top 10 Must-Try Choices

Overnight Options on Nusa Penida

Visiting Nusa Penida is absolutely worthwhile, and it’s recommended to stay for a night or two rather than opting for a day trip. This will give you extra time to fully experience this enchanting island. While a day trip is a great way to visit the most popular tourist spots, staying longer allows you more time to explore and discover hidden treasures.

You can refer to this: Nusa Penida Accommodation Recommendations: 13 Highly Rated Stays from Luxury to Budget

Reflections on the Return Journey

After spending a few delightful days on Nusa Penida, we prepared to take the boat back to Bali. For the return trip, we again chose to travel light, which made our journey more pleasant and stress-free. Although the boat ride was still bumpy, we had grown accustomed to the sensation and even began to enjoy this maritime adventure.

Conclusion

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Our trip to Nusa Penida allowed us to deeply appreciate the grandeur of nature and the warmth of the locals. Whether it was the thrill of sailing on the sea or the enjoyment of the island’s beautiful scenery and delicious food, everything left a lasting impression on us. We are very grateful for the information provided by fellow travelers beforehand, and we hope this travelogue proves helpful to you as well. If you’re planning a trip to Nusa Penida, don’t miss out on these beautiful spots and culinary delights—wishing you a wonderful journey!

Finally, here are a few important reminders for visitors heading to Nusa Penida:

You can buy tickets directly at the port, but make sure to arrive at the ticket office at least one hour before departure.
Booking tickets in advance on Klook offers discounts and saves you time from queuing.
Large luggage is allowed, but it’s best to avoid bringing it as it can be very inconvenient on the island.
For luggage storage services, please refer here.
If you purchased tickets through Klook, arrive at the port at least 30 minutes before departure.
It’s advisable to book your tickets on Klook more than a day in advance.

Nusa Penida Deals

Do you find Mei Yi Liao’s itinerary exciting? Quickly plan your own Bali free and easy trip! We also welcome everyone to share your itineraries in our community!