Photo: Robert Gunnarsson / Unsplash
Indonesia
Speedboat rental in Bali
A private boat instead of a packed ferry: across the strait to Nusa Penida and Lembongan on your schedule.
Speedboat rental in Bali answers the question of how to see Nusa Penida without queueing for the public fast boat and then bumping around the island by minibus. The Axopar 37 picks your group up in Benoa and makes a short crossing to Crystal Bay, Manta Point or the foot of the Kelingking headland, in whatever order you like.
It is an 11.5-metre Finnish boat for ten guests, with a captain, sun shade and a fridge. Running at around 40 knots, it spends far less of the day crossing the Badung Strait than a catamaran would, leaving the extra hours for snorkelling and swimming. Masks and snorkels are already aboard.
This kind of day suits couples, friends and families with older children who want Penida and Lembongan in one go. Bear in mind that the strait can be lumpy: if anyone gets seasick or there are toddlers in the group, a catamaran will be gentler.
Speedboats in Bali
What it costs
The lowest indicative prices among the yachts of this type on this page.
- Full day
- from €700 / day
Indicative "from" market prices for this destination. The exact price depends on dates, duration and the specific yacht, and comes in your personal quote.
Usually included
- A captain familiar with Badung Strait currents
- Fuel for the Benoa–Penida–Lembongan route
- Snorkel gear and water
Usually extra
- The Nusa Penida marine park fee for each guest
- Lunch at a café on Lembongan
- Hotel transfer to the harbour
- An in-water snorkel guide
Exact inclusions depend on the yacht and are always listed in your written offer.
Where you go
Boarding is at Benoa Harbour, sometimes Sanur or Serangan. The classic route takes in Manta Point off Penida's south coast, then Crystal Bay for snorkelling, Kelingking seen from the sea and a stop at Lembongan or Ceningan by the Blue Lagoon. The captain sets the order of stops by current and tide.
Marinas
- Benoa Harbour (Bali Marina)
- Serangan
- Sanur
- Labuan Bajo (for Komodo cruises)
When to go
Conditions are best in the dry season from April to October, when visibility underwater is good. From November to March trips leave in the morning before the rain and wind pick up. An early start pays off in any season, giving you a better shot at the mantas and an empty Crystal Bay.
Speedboat rental in Bali: FAQ
Why a private boat rather than the public fast boat?
You are not sharing with strangers or waiting for a departure, and you go straight to the snorkel sites rather than just the harbour. The route and timing of each stop fit your group.
Is the Badung Strait dangerous?
The currents are genuinely strong, which is why a local captain runs the boat and chooses when and where to stop. If the sea is too rough the trip may be moved, with terms shown in your offer.
How many people does the boat take?
Up to ten guests. With six to eight there is more room and everyone fits under the shade.
Are mantas guaranteed?
No, they are wild animals. They are seen at Manta Point year-round, but an encounter is never certain. The captain arrives at the best time for the current.