Bali: 3-Day Gili Islands Trip by Speedboat with Hotel

Introduction

Taking a trip from Bali to the Gili Islands via a 3-day package sounds like the perfect way to combine island hopping with relaxing beach time. We haven’t personally experienced this tour, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it offers a well-organized mix of transport, comfortable accommodations, and activities designed for both adventure and leisure.

What stands out is the inclusion of hotel stays on two different islands, a guided snorkeling tour, and personal assistance throughout—making it feel both seamless and tailored. There’s also a clear emphasis on authentic experiences, like watching sunsets and swimming with turtles.

One thing to consider is that costs can add up, especially if you opt for the premium package or private transfers. This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort, convenience, and guided activities over trying to DIY their island adventure. It’s a great fit for first-timers or those wanting a stress-free, curated Gili Islands experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• All-in-one package including transfers, hotels, and activities simplifies planning.
• Comfort options available, with standard and premium accommodations.
• Snorkeling tours are guided, with plenty of opportunities to see turtles, coral reefs, and underwater statues.
• Travel logistics are well-coordinated but subject to weather and sea conditions.
• Authentic experiences like sunset viewing and beach relaxation are built into the itinerary.
• Personal assistance throughout the trip adds reassurance, especially for first-timers.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Beginning to End

Day 1: Bali to Gili Trawangan

The trip kicks off with hotel pick-up in Bali, which saves you from the hassle of finding your own transport. After a comfortable transfer to the harbor, you’ll board a speedboat across the Lombok Strait — a ride that offers spectacular views of Mount Agung and the open sea. For many, this fast boat is a highlight; it’s quick and offers a sense of adventure as you cut through the waves.

Once on Gili Trawangan, your transfer to the hotel is typically via a traditional horse cart, which adds a charming local touch. Your beachfront hotel sets the tone for relaxation, with plenty of room to swim, walk along sandy beaches, or just unwind. Many reviewers mention that the hotels are locally inspired, with some noting the hotel on Gili Trawangan as very comfortable with a perfect spot for sunset viewing.

The beach here is lively but not overwhelming, and you’ll likely have free time to explore or relax. In the evening, watching the sunset from the shore is a must—many guests find it a peaceful way to start their island adventure.

Day 2: Snorkeling & Transfer to Gili Air

After a hearty breakfast, your day begins with a private 2.5-hour snorkeling trip. The guides are praised for their knowledge—”great snorkeling for us,” one reviewer notes, especially when spotting turtles, coral, and underwater statues. It’s a highlight for many, with some describing the experience as “marvelous” and worth every penny.

The snorkeling spots are carefully chosen, with at least three different sites, providing a good variety of underwater scenery and marine life. The guides even point out features like the Bask Nest underwater statues near Gili Meno—a unique attraction not always included in standard tours.

Post-snorkeling, it’s time to check out from Gili Trawangan and head to Gili Air by boat. The transfer is smooth, and the hotel on Gili Air is usually simpler but cozy, with some reviewers describing it as “like living in a treehouse,” complete with outdoor bathrooms and a rustic charm.

The rest of the day on Gili Air is yours to enjoy at leisure—whether that’s lounging on the beach, exploring the island, or just relaxing at your hotel.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: Gili Air & Return to Bali

Your final morning begins with breakfast, and many travelers appreciate the relaxed pace—an opportunity for a quick swim or a beach walk before check-out. The boat back to Gili Trawangan is included, and from there, the fast boat takes you back to Bali.

Upon return, a shared shuttle typically takes you from the harbor to your next hotel—another convenience that many reviewers value highly. Just be aware that timing can sometimes be affected by weather or sea conditions, which might lead to delays. The reviews mention that traffic and boat schedules are unpredictable, so it’s wise to plan accordingly and avoid scheduling critical flights immediately afterward.

What We Love About This Tour

Seamless organization is a huge plus—everything from transfer to hotel stays to snorkeling is arranged for you, saving hours of planning. The hotels on both islands are well-chosen, with the Trawangan accommodations praised for their comfort and scenic views, while the Gili Air hotel offers a more rustic vibe that many find charming.

The guided snorkeling trip is another standout. Reviewers repeatedly praise the guides’ expertise and friendliness, noting they “immediately responded to questions” and made the experience very enjoyable. Seeing turtles and underwater statues makes the snorkeling a memorable highlight.

Finally, the personal assistance provided throughout the trip reassures travelers, especially those unfamiliar with the islands. From pick-up to drop-off, the staff’s responsiveness is often highlighted as a major benefit.

However, some reviews point out that costs can pile up, especially if you choose the premium package or private transfers. Also, weather and sea conditions can impact the schedule, so flexibility is essential.

The Practical Details: Transportation, Accommodation, and Costs

Transport is a core part of this tour, with round-trip fast boat rides connecting Bali to the Gili Islands. The speedboats are described as efficient and quick, but weather can sometimes cause delays. The transfers in Bali and the islands are smooth, usually via shared shuttles or traditional carts, making the entire journey hassle-free.

Accommodation options come in two tiers: Standard and Premium. The standard hotels are comfortable and inspired by local style, offering good value. The premium options provide upgraded comfort and a faster boat service, which might be worth the extra cost if you prioritize comfort and time savings.

Pricing reflects the convenience and inclusions—such as snorkeling, transfers, and hotel stays. While some reviewers say that it’s quite expensive, they also agree it offers a quality, all-in-one experience that’s hard to match if you’re looking for a stress-free trip.

Snorkeling tours are included and guided, with equipment provided. Multiple reviewers mention the entertaining and knowledgeable guides, which enhances the experience.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

One reviewer described staying in an “adventurous” hotel with an outdoor bathroom, which adds a rustic charm and a sense of “living in nature.” Others appreciated the local style of the hotels, which made the experience more authentic than large international resorts.

Many travelers appreciated the diversity of activities—from sunset viewing on Gili Trawangan to snorkeling with turtles and exploring coral reefs. One reviewer specifically loved that “the tour was perfectly tailored to our needs, with multiple snorkeling spots and friendly guides.”

On the downside, some mention hotel issues like lack of mosquito nets, plumbing problems, or older facilities—reminding us that the level of comfort can vary with the package and hotel choices.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors to the Gili Islands or those who want a full, hassle-free experience without worrying about logistics. It suits travelers looking for a balance of comfort and adventure, with guided activities and organized transfers.

Families with kids can benefit from the private guided snorkeling and the convenience of included transfers, but should be mindful of hotel conditions in some cases. Travelers on a budget might find the cost somewhat high, especially when compared to self-organized options, but many agree the added comfort and ease are worth it.

Those seeking relaxed island hopping with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling will find this tour a very solid choice. It’s less about high-end luxury and more about authentic, enjoyable experiences with dependable organization.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Gili Islands tour offers a well-rounded, stress-free way to explore some of Indonesia’s most beautiful islands. The combination of organized transfers, authentic accommodations, guided snorkeling, and personal support makes it a convenient pick for travelers who want to enjoy the Gilis without the fuss of planning every detail.

While it’s priced higher than DIY options, many guests find the value lies in the comfort, safety, and guided experiences. The tour is especially suitable for those who prefer a curated, worry-free adventure over DIY logistics, and for families or first-timers eager to explore the underwater world and laid-back island life.

If you’re after reliable organization, authentic local charm, and memorable snorkeling, this tour could be the ideal choice to make your Gili Islands visit both enjoyable and effortless.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up in Bali, with specific details provided closer to your travel date. Extra charges may apply if your hotel is outside the specified pickup areas.

Can I choose between standard and premium packages?
Absolutely, you can opt for the standard package with locally inspired hotels or upgrade to the premium for more comfortable accommodations and faster boat service.

What should I expect from the snorkeling trip?
The private guided snorkeling includes visits to three different sites, with equipment provided. You’ll likely see turtles, coral reefs, and underwater statues; guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise.

How long are the boat rides?
The fast boat ride from Bali to the Gili Islands is relatively quick, with views of Mount Agung and the open sea. The return trip is also included in the schedule, but weather can sometimes cause delays.

Are meals included?
Breakfasts on Days 2 and 3 are included at your hotels. Lunch and dinner are not, giving you the chance to explore local eateries on your own.

What are the accommodation options?
On Gili Trawangan, you stay in a comfortable, locally inspired hotel, while on Gili Air, the hotel may be simpler and rustic, with some reviews describing it as “like living in a treehouse.”

Is this tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention families enjoying the snorkeling and beach activities, making it a good choice for kids, especially with private tours and organized logistics. However, always consider your child’s comfort with boat rides and snorkeling.

This Gili Islands trip stands out for its combination of organization, authentic experiences, and the chance to explore underwater marvels with expert guides. If you value comfort and ease, it could be your perfect escape to Indonesia’s stunning islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby