Traveling by fast boat is one of the best ways to explore Bali’s nearby islands like the Gili Islands, Nusa Penida, and Lombok. However, fast boat tickets can sometimes be pricey, especially during peak travel seasons.
Fortunately, there are several ways to score discounts and save money on your fast boat tickets. This guide will walk you through practical tips and tricks to help you get the best deals on fast boat tickets in Bali.
Book Online in Advance
One of the simplest ways to secure discounts on fast boat tickets is by booking online in advance. Many fast boat operators offer early bird discounts for travelers who plan ahead. These discounts can range from 10% to 20%, and they often apply to tickets booked at least a week before departure.
- Where to Book: Websites like Bali Fast Boat, 12Go Asia, and Direct Ferries frequently offer deals on fast boat tickets to popular destinations like the Gili Islands and Nusa Penida.
- Advantages: Booking online not only saves you money but also ensures you have a guaranteed seat, especially during busy seasons when tickets may sell out quickly.
Use Travel Aggregators
Travel aggregator websites can help you compare prices across different fast boat companies, making it easier to spot discounts. These platforms often have exclusive partnerships with boat operators, allowing them to offer special discounts that you wouldn’t find if booking directly with the company.
- Popular Aggregators: Platforms like Traveloka, Klook, and Bookaway often run promotions that provide discounts on fast boat tickets to and from Bali.
- Tip: Check these websites regularly for flash sales or limited-time deals. It’s not uncommon to find discounts of 15% or more during off-peak seasons.
Look for Group Booking Discounts
Traveling in a group? Many fast boat operators offer group discounts, especially if you’re booking tickets for five or more people. Group rates can save you anywhere from 5% to 20%, depending on the size of your party and the operator.
- How to Get It: When booking through the boat company’s website or a travel agent, inquire about group discounts. It’s often a good idea to contact the company directly to negotiate a better rate if you’re traveling with a large group.
- Tip: If you’re not traveling with a group, try to team up with fellow travelers at your accommodation or in local travel groups to take advantage of group booking rates.
Take Advantage of Promotional Codes and Cashback Offers
Many travel platforms and fast boat operators run promotions offering discount codes and cashback offers. These promotions are usually available for online bookings and can help you save significantly on your tickets.
- Where to Find Codes: Keep an eye on travel websites like Klook and 12Go Asia for promotional codes, or sign up for newsletters from fast boat operators like BlueWater Express or Gili Getaway. Sometimes, local tourism websites and blogs also share discount codes.
- Cashback Offers: If you’re using a payment app like GoPay or OVO, you may be able to earn cashback on your fast boat bookings. Some credit card companies also offer cashback promotions for travel bookings.
Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
If your schedule allows, traveling during Bali’s off-peak seasons can save you a lot of money on fast boat tickets. Boat operators typically lower their prices during the rainy season, which falls between November and March.
- Advantages: Not only will you save money, but you’ll also avoid the large crowds that flock to the islands during Bali’s dry season. This means a more peaceful and enjoyable trip.
- Tip: Keep an eye on weather conditions, as the rainy season can sometimes affect boat schedules. However, operators still run boats regularly, and you can take advantage of significantly lower ticket prices.
Ask for Discounts at Local Travel Agencies
While booking online is convenient, it’s also worth visiting local travel agencies in Bali, particularly in areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud. These agencies often have access to special deals and discounts that aren’t available online.
- Negotiation is Key: Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. If you’re booking multiple tickets or a round-trip journey, agents are often willing to give you a discount.
- Where to Go: You’ll find travel agencies dotted around tourist hotspots. Simply walk in and ask for the best price on fast boat tickets. You may be able to get a lower rate than the one advertised online.
Use Loyalty Programs and Membership Discounts
Frequent travelers should take advantage of loyalty programs offered by fast boat companies. By signing up for a loyalty program, you can earn points or discounts for future trips, making it cheaper each time you travel.
- Examples: Some operators, like BlueWater Express, offer membership programs where you can accumulate points or enjoy perks such as discounted tickets, priority boarding, or free upgrades.
- Tip: If you frequently travel to and from Bali’s nearby islands, it’s worth looking into loyalty programs to maximize savings over time.
Check Social Media for Flash Sales
Fast boat companies often announce flash sales and exclusive discounts on their social media channels. Following your preferred fast boat operators on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter can give you a heads-up on these limited-time deals.
- How to Stay Updated: Set up notifications for the social media accounts of fast boat companies you’re interested in. This way, you’ll be among the first to know when a flash sale is announced.
With a bit of planning and research, it’s entirely possible to get great discounts on fast boat tickets in Bali. Whether you’re booking online, using cashback offers, or negotiating with local travel agents, these tips will help you save money while ensuring you have a memorable and hassle-free trip to Bali’s stunning islands.
