For many travelers, the allure of island hopping in Southeast Asia includes a dream journey by ferry, soaking up the sun and spray as you sail between tropical paradises. While ferries are a fantastic way to get around Indonesia, zipping between Bali, Lombok, and the Gilis, a direct ferry connection between Thailand and Bali isn’t currently available.
The sheer distance, roughly 4,500 kilometers, makes a conventional ferry trip impractical. Don’t despair though! There are still ways to craft an epic Thailand to Bali itinerary that incorporates some ferry action. Here are your options:
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Ferry hops with a flight: Break up the journey by taking ferries within Thailand, perhaps island hopping in the south or exploring Koh Lanta. Then, fly from Phuket or Krabi to Bali for a quicker connection.
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Luxury cruise experience: While pricier, a cruise between Southeast Asian destinations offers a luxurious alternative. This multi-day voyage allows you to unwind onboard, enjoying fine dining and entertainment while making stops at various ports, including Bali.
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Land and sea adventure: This option involves ferries but with some overland travel. Explore Thailand and make your way down the Malay Peninsula. From there, you can catch ferries to Sumatra or Java in Indonesia, and then connect to Bali by plane or domestic ferry.
While a direct Thailand-Bali ferry might not be on the horizon yet, these alternatives offer a chance to combine the excitement of ferry travel with exploring stunning destinations in Southeast Asia.
