Move over, slow boats and traffic-clogged bridges—there’s a new way to zip between Java and Bali in less time than it takes to watch The Godfather. Starting tomorrow 23 Juli 2025, Indonesia’s Express Bahari high-speed ferry will launch trial runs, shuttling up to 400 passengers between Banyuwangi and Denpasar in a breezy 2.5 hours.
Fast, Furious, and Ferry-tastic
Departing Banyuwangi’s Boom Port at 9:00 a.m. (WIB) and docking at Serangan Port in Denpasar by 11:30 a.m. (WITA), the ferry promises to turn a grueling overland trek (we’re looking at you, Gilimanuk traffic jams) into a caffeine-and-nap-friendly sprint. The return trip leaves Denpasar at 2:00 p.m., perfect for travelers who’d rather outrun Bali’s infamous sunset gridlock.
Ticket prices start at Rp 225,000 ($15) one-way from Java to Bali, and Rp 235,000 ($16) for the return—cheaper than a massage after that 6-hour bus ride you’re avoiding.
Tourism Boost or “Serangan”-ly Good Idea?
Denpasar’s Deputy Mayor, I Kadek Agus Arya Wibawa, hailed the ferry as a “fresh breeze” for local tourism, particularly for Serangan Village, a stone’s throw from Bali’s southern hotspots. “We’re ready with transport links, parking, and even a push toward local eateries,” he said. “Because nothing pairs with a speedboat ride like sate lilit and a Bintang.”
The project, a collaboration between Denpasar and Banyuwangi governments, also aims to ease congestion at Java’s Ketapang Port—where lines of vehicles often resemble a Fast & Furious audition.
Pro Tips for Speed Demons
- Timing is everything: The ferry runs daily except Tuesdays (maintenance day—even speedboats need facials).
- Pack light: With no mention of vehicle transport, this is a foot-passenger affair.
- Serangan secrets: The port’s proximity to Denpasar’s seafood hubs means you can go from boat to grilled prawns in 10 minutes flat.
The Bigger Picture
Bali’s tourism machine is clearly diversifying. As Denpasar’s Transport Chief Ketut Sriawan noted, “This isn’t just about cutting travel time—it’s about spreading the economic love beyond Bali’s usual hotspots.”
So, is this the end of the Gilimanuk ferry’s monopoly? Too soon to tell. But for now, Java-Bali travelers finally have a faster alternative—one that doesn’t require bribing a traffic god.
“Why drive when you can fly—over water?” — Anonymous speedboat enthusiast.
Final Departure Note: If the trial succeeds, more routes and vessels could follow. Until then, enjoy the sea breeze and that rare feeling of beating Bali’s traffic. Selamat jalan!
