A New Way to Explore Two Magical Destinations in Just 2.5 Hours

TheIndonesia.co - If you’ve ever dreamt of watching the sunrise over Red Island Beach in Banyuwangi and still having time for a seafood lunch at Mak Beng in Sanur, not so far from Denpasar, in the same day—now you can. Thanks to a new fast boat service between Banyuwangi (East Java) and Denpasar (Bali), exploring both destinations has never been easier or more scenic.

Launched in a joint effort between the Banyuwangi Regency Government and the City Government of Denpasar, this new sea route offers not only a faster and more comfortable way to travel but also opens up fresh possibilities for discovering hidden gems on both ends of the journey.

According to Antara News Agency, the boat connects Marina Boom Harbour in Banyuwangi with Serangan Harbour in Denpasar, with each trip taking only around 2.5 hours—a far cry from the usual 5–6 hours by road and ferry through Ketapang and Gilimanuk. Operating every day except Tuesday, this new route allows visitors to swap traffic congestion for ocean views, and wasted time for unforgettable experiences.

From Banyuwangi to Bali: A Scenic Shortcut with More to See

The magic of this new boat service lies in what it unlocks—not just time saved, but new opportunities for exploration.

Start in Banyuwangi: Nature and Culture at Its Finest

Banyuwangi has quietly become one of Java’s top rising destinations, with its untouched beauty and eco-tourism attractions. Before you hop on the boat, you can wake early and make a short drive to Pulau Merah (Red Island)—a pristine stretch of beach with striking red-tinged sand and a surfer’s charm. Or hike through De Djawatan Benculuk, a forest straight out of a fantasy movie with towering trembesi trees draped in moss.

Looking for culture? Visit Osing villages to experience the traditional music, crafts, and rituals of the indigenous Banyuwangi people. If you time your trip right, you might even catch the Gandrung dance, a symbol of gratitude and celebration in the region.

And don’t forget the local food. Before departing from Marina Boom, fuel up with pecel rawon or the legendary sego tempong, a spicy rice dish that locals say will “slap” you awake with flavour.

Glide Across the Bali Strait

Once aboard, passengers can enjoy the comfort of the modern fast boat, painted in white and purple hues. Capable of carrying up to 400 passengers, the boat offers indoor seating and space for luggage up to 20kg per person. The best part? You can book your ticket online, and the boat departs regardless of how many passengers are onboard—ensuring your plans stay flexible.

Sit back, sip a drink, and let the stunning views of the Bali Strait unfold. On clear days, you might catch glimpses of both Java’s volcanoes and Bali’s lush coastline. It’s not just a ride—it’s a scenic voyage.

Arriving in Denpasar: Beaches, Culture, and Coastal Eats

The boat docks at Pelabuhan Serangan, a strategic harbor just 15–20 minutes away from central Denpasar and major tourist spots like Sanur, Kuta, and Ubud. The harbour area is already integrated with Denpasar’s transportation system, including special rental services and ride-hailing apps, making onward travel smooth and convenient.

But before you leave the port area, make time for lunch at the iconic Warung Mak Beng. This no-frills seafood spot has been serving just two dishes—fish soup and crispy fried fish—since 1941. The flavour is simple, bold, and unforgettable. There’s almost always a queue, and that alone should tell you everything you need to know.

Nearby, you can explore Serangan Island, also known as Turtle Island, for its spiritual sites like Pura Sakenan and conservation programs that let you learn about Bali’s endangered sea turtles.

From there, you can easily head into Denpasar’s rich cultural heart—home to museums, markets, and temples—or venture onward to more touristy areas like Seminyak or Canggu. With your travel time significantly cut, you’ll have more freedom to fit in experiences you’d usually have to skip.

More Than Convenience: A Boost to Local Tourism and Sustainability

This isn’t just about speed and scenery—it’s also a smarter, more sustainable way to travel. According to Denpasar’s Head of Transportation, I Ketut Sriawan, the fast boat service is expected to ease traffic on the Gilimanuk-Denpasar route, which is notorious for congestion during peak travel seasons like Lebaran and Christmas–New Year.

Instead of 75 cars or motorcycles making the journey individually, those same passengers can now travel together efficiently and safely. Over time, this shift is expected to reduce the environmental footprint of inter-island travel, while also offering a new economic spark for communities near the harbors.

Local culinary vendors, transport operators, and UMKM (small and medium enterprises) in both Banyuwangi and Denpasar are likely to benefit from increased foot traffic, especially with Pelabuhan Serangan’s revitalization and improvements in infrastructure like waiting lounges and ticketing systems.

Travel Tips: Making the Most of the Boat Route

If you're planning to try the new Banyuwangi–Denpasar route, here are a few tips to make your journey smoother and more memorable:

• Book in Advance: Online ticketing is already available, with prices starting at Rp225,000 for a regular seat and Rp275,000 for VVIP. It’s best to book early during peak seasons.
• Pack Smart: You’re allowed up to 20kg of luggage. Pack light but don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and a change of clothes if you plan to explore coastal areas upon arrival.
• Plan Around the Schedule: The boat departs Banyuwangi at 9:00 AM (WIB) and arrives in Denpasar around 11:30 AM (WITA). The return trip leaves Denpasar at 2:00 PM (WITA) and gets back to Banyuwangi by 3:30 PM (WIB).
• Stay Nearby: Consider booking accommodation close to either Marina Boom or Serangan Harbor for a smooth start or end to your journey.
• Support Local: Whether it’s a street vendor selling coconut water or a family-run homestay near Red Island, your spending directly supports the community.

Final Thoughts: A Gateway to Something More

The launch of this fast boat is more than just a transport milestone—it’s a bridge between two culturally rich, naturally stunning destinations. For tourists, it means you can fit more experiences into your itinerary without the usual stress and delays. For locals, it’s a new engine of growth, connectivity, and possibility.

So whether you're a surfer chasing waves in Banyuwangi, or a digital nomad looking for the next quiet beachside café in Bali, this new sea route invites you to see more, go farther, and travel better.

Next time you're mapping out your Java-Bali journey, consider skipping the long road. Let the ocean carry you—fast, easy, and full of surprises.