New System Improves Efficiency and Comfort for Gili Trawangan Crossings

Improvements to the ferry services to Gili Trawangan are now significantly more efficient and convenient. In the North Lombok Regency area, the operator Koperasi Karya Bahari (KKB) has implemented a system of boat departures every 30 minutes for the Bangsal – Gili route. This policy was launched as a step to reduce long queues and provide a more certain schedule for both tourists and island workers.

According to the Chairman of KKB, Sabarudin, this new system allows boats to depart every half hour even if the passenger capacity is not yet full. Furthermore, there is now a separation between passenger boats and cargo boats to maintain comfort and safety during the sea crossing. Although the new policy requires subsidies among members to run smoothly, it has received broad support from the community and tourists.

This system change has been tangibly felt by service users. Many island workers and tourists admit they are more relaxed because they no longer fear missing the boat. A hotel staff member in Gili Trawangan even stated that the consistent schedule makes the commute to work much easier. Meanwhile, vendors around Bangsal Port are also feeling a positive impact as the number of visitors waiting for boats has increased, leading to a rise in transactions.

In addition to using Bangsal Port, tourists also have various alternative transportation options to Gili Trawangan. The most popular choice is using fast boats departing from ports in Bali, such as Padangbai, Sanur, and Serangan, as well as from ports in Lombok, like Teluk Nare and Senggigi. Travel time ranges from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the departure point and sea conditions. Many fast boat operators offer flexible daily schedules. To facilitate land travel before crossing, car transfer services are also available from various complete points, such as hotels or the airport, directly to the port. This service makes the trip to Gili more practical, especially for tourists carrying a lot of luggage or traveling with family.

The North Lombok Regency Tourism Office also appreciates this innovation and hopes a similar system will be implemented at other Gili ports to maintain the image of a professional tourism service and attract visitors back to the three Gilis. With increased convenience and certainty of service, the Gili Trawangan destination has the potential to become more competitive in the tourism market and boost the confidence of both domestic and international tourists.