Anyone who has navigated Bali’s busy roads or waited their turn for photos in hotspots like Canggu or Uluwatu knows that the island’s beauty often comes with heavy crowds. Yet just offshore lies a quieter, more genuine side of Bali — and the best way to reach it is by sea.
In recent years, private yacht charters and boat rental options in Bali have become one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the region. Once considered a luxury only for the elite, private day charters are now far more accessible, with prices starting around $600 USD. More than comfort, they offer access to secluded islands and coastal gems that many travelers never experience.
A popular and scenic route takes you across the Badung Strait to Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida. These neighboring islands combine natural adventure, peaceful surroundings, and dramatic landscapes — all while feeling far less crowded than mainland Bali.
Nusa Lembongan: A Peaceful Island Retreat
Arriving at Nusa Lembongan by boat instantly sets the tone. As the deep ocean blue fades into crystal-clear turquoise, the island’s calm atmosphere becomes obvious. Life here unfolds at a relaxed pace — fishermen work along the shore, locals cruise by on scooters, and beachside eateries fill the air with the aroma of fresh seafood.
These five experiences make Lembongan an ideal first destination on a yacht journey:
1. Snorkeling at Mangrove Point
Known for its colorful coral reefs and lively marine life, Mangrove Point is one of the area’s top snorkeling spots. With your yacht anchored nearby, you can enter the water directly and explore an underwater world bursting with activity.
2. Lunch at Sandy Bay
After a morning in the sea, many charters pause for lunch. While Sandy Bay isn’t accessible directly by boat, a short drive from the docking area leads to this peaceful beach and its rustic cliffside restaurant. Fresh grilled fish tastes even better when you’ve just stepped out of the ocean.
3. Mushroom Bay Swim Break
With gentle waves and soft white sand, Mushroom Bay is perfect for a relaxed swim. Its calm conditions make it especially suitable for families or beginners.
4. Devil’s Tear Cliffside Views
Your crew can drop you near this dramatic rocky coastline, where waves crash powerfully against the cliffs. Visiting around sunset offers unforgettable views and explains why it’s such a famous photography spot.
5. Sunset Drinks at The Deck
End the day at The Deck Café & Bar, overlooking Jungut Batu Bay. A short tender ride from your anchored yacht brings you to this relaxed venue, where cocktails pair perfectly with sunset views and Mount Agung glowing in the distance.
From Lembongan, most yachts continue onward to Nusa Penida — a larger, more rugged island with a completely different character.
Nusa Penida: Bali’s Wild Side
From the ocean, Nusa Penida feels dramatic and untouched. Towering cliffs rise straight from the water, hiding secluded beaches and caves along the shoreline. Less developed and far more rugged than Lembongan, Penida’s raw beauty is best explored by private boat, allowing you to avoid busy roads and packed viewpoints.
Here are five unforgettable experiences around Nusa Penida by sea:
1. Manta Point
One of the world’s best locations to swim with manta rays, this spot offers regular encounters with these gentle giants. Guided by your crew, you’ll snorkel in calm waters where mantas glide gracefully beneath the surface.
2. Crystal Bay
A protected cove with clear water and healthy reefs, Crystal Bay is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Sea turtles are often seen here, adding to the magic.
3. Kelingking Cliff from the Water
Instead of hiking down with crowds, viewing the iconic “T-Rex” cliff from the sea gives a unique and peaceful perspective. Anchoring offshore lets you appreciate the scale and beauty without the chaos.
4. Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong
Cruising past these striking natural formations from the ocean feels cinematic. Many charters slow down here, offering plenty of time to take photos of the dramatic coastline.
5. Hidden Beach Stop
The greatest advantage of a private yacht is flexibility. Experienced captains know quiet beaches untouched by tour boats, where you can swim, relax, or enjoy the sand in complete privacy.
Experiencing Bali from the Water
Bali is part of a vast chain of more than 17,000 islands, and that reality truly comes alive when viewed from the sea. As you cruise, you’ll pass temple-lined cliffs, small fishing villages, and lush coastal hills. Dolphins and turtles sometimes appear alongside the boat, while sunsets reflect across calm waters far removed from the mainland’s noise.
A private yacht charter isn’t just about indulgence — it’s about slowing down and experiencing Bali in a more personal way. Whether traveling with friends, family, or a partner, exploring by sea offers freedom that’s increasingly rare on land. When costs are shared, a full-day private charter can come to as little as $100 USD per person.
For more inspiration on island routes, secluded beaches, and genuine local experiences, Bali Travel Guide is an excellent resource for uncovering the island’s hidden coastlines, food culture, and adventure destinations.
