Looking for Bali to Labuan Bajo ferry tickets in 2026? Find the latest Pelni schedules, ticket prices, travel duration, available ships, and booking tips in this complete guide.
Bali, 8islandadventure.com - The main search intent behind the keyword “Bali to Labuan Bajo ferry tickets” is informational and transactional.
Travelers generally want to know whether there is a direct sea route between Bali and Labuan Bajo, which Pelni ships operate the route, how much tickets cost, how long the journey takes, when the ships depart, and how tickets can be purchased.
This guide combines those questions into one practical reference so travelers can plan their journey without having to search through multiple sources.
Is There a Ferry from Bali to Labuan Bajo?
Yes. Bali and Labuan Bajo are connected by Pelni passenger ships on certain schedules. Two ships that have operated this route include KM Binaiya and KM Tilongkabila.
The route generally departs from Benoa Port in Bali and continues through several ports before reaching Labuan Bajo. Because Pelni schedules can change according to the voyage, travelers should always check the latest departure information before purchasing a ticket.
For example, September 2026 schedules show KM Tilongkabila operating from Benoa to Labuan Bajo, while KM Binaiya also serves the Bali–Labuan Bajo route on selected voyages.
The trip is considerably longer than traveling by air, but ferry travel can be an interesting alternative for travelers who want to experience sea travel between Bali and Flores.
Bali to Labuan Bajo Ferry Schedule 2026
The Bali to Labuan Bajo ferry schedule is not fixed every day. Pelni operates ships according to individual voyage schedules, so the departure date and arrival time can vary from one month to another.
For this reason, travelers looking for a specific date should not rely solely on an old schedule found on travel blogs or social media. The safest approach is to check the current Pelni reservation system before making travel arrangements.
Recent 2026 schedules provide an overview of how the route works.
| Ship | Route | Example Departure from Bali | Example Arrival in Labuan Bajo | Approximate Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KM Tilongkabila | Benoa – Lembar – Bima – Labuan Bajo | 3 September 2026, 09:00 WITA | 4 September 2026, 22:00 WITA | Around 1 day 13 hours |
| KM Binaiya | Benoa – Bima – Labuan Bajo | 9 September 2026, 06:00 WITA | 10 September 2026, 15:00 WITA | Around 1 day 9 hours |
The examples above show that the sailing time can be around 33–37 hours, depending on the ship and voyage. Actual travel time can change because of port calls, weather, operational conditions, and schedule adjustments.
KM Binaiya Bali to Labuan Bajo
KM Binaiya is one of the Pelni ships associated with the Bali–Labuan Bajo route. On certain voyages, the ship departs from Benoa and sails through Bima before reaching Labuan Bajo.
A September 2026 schedule, for example, shows KM Binaiya departing Benoa on 9 September at around 06:00 WITA and reaching Labuan Bajo on 10 September at approximately 15:00 WITA.
The journey takes roughly 33 hours on that voyage. The ship therefore offers an option for travelers who are not in a hurry and prefer sea transportation over flying.
KM Binaiya Ticket Price
The economy fare for the Benoa–Labuan Bajo route has been reported at around Rp295,500 for adult passengers on several 2026 schedules.
However, the final price can vary depending on passenger category, voyage, and applicable charges or promotional programs.
There was also a Pelni 30% ticket discount program for selected 2026 travel periods. The promotional period covered departures between 20 June and 15 August 2026, meaning the promotion should not be assumed to be available for later departures.
KM Tilongkabila Bali to Labuan Bajo
KM Tilongkabila is another Pelni ship that has operated the Bali–Labuan Bajo route.
A September 2026 voyage showed KM Tilongkabila departing Benoa at 09:00 WITA on 3 September and arriving in Labuan Bajo at approximately 22:00 WITA on 4 September.
The route can include intermediate ports such as Lembar and Bima before reaching Labuan Bajo. This explains why the trip takes more than one day even though Bali and Labuan Bajo are geographically separated by a relatively manageable distance.
KM Tilongkabila Ticket Price
The reported economy fare for the Benoa–Labuan Bajo route was around Rp295,500 on the September 2026 schedule.
As with KM Binaiya, travelers should confirm the current fare in the Pelni reservation system because ticket prices and availability may change.
It is also important to distinguish between the regular ticket fare and temporary promotional prices. A discounted price from an earlier month should not automatically be treated as the current fare.
Bali to Labuan Bajo Ferry Ticket Prices
The price of Bali to Labuan Bajo ferry tickets is generally much cheaper than many airfares, especially during peak travel periods.
For several 2026 schedules, the adult economy fare for the Benoa–Labuan Bajo route was around Rp295,500.
The reverse route, from Labuan Bajo to Benoa, can have a slightly different fare. Some 2026 schedules reported prices starting at around Rp272,000 for the economy class.
| Route | Approximate Economy Fare |
|---|---|
| Benoa/Bali – Labuan Bajo | Rp295,500 |
| Labuan Bajo – Benoa/Bali | Rp272,000 |
These figures should be treated as reference prices rather than guaranteed prices for every sailing.
Before making payment, check the fare displayed for your exact departure date, passenger type, and ship.
Labuan Bajo to Bali Ferry Ticket Prices
Travelers going in the opposite direction can also use Pelni ships from Labuan Bajo to Bali.
Several 2026 schedules show KM Binaiya and KM Tilongkabila operating voyages that connect Labuan Bajo with Benoa. Depending on the voyage, the ship may first call at other ports such as Bima before continuing toward Bali.
The reported economy fare for Labuan Bajo–Benoa has been around Rp272,000 on several 2026 schedules.
The actual price should still be confirmed when booking because schedules, availability, and fares can change.
How Long Is the Ferry from Bali to Labuan Bajo?
The Bali to Labuan Bajo ferry journey generally takes more than one day.
Recent examples show travel times of approximately 1 day 9 hours for KM Binaiya and around 1 day 13 hours for KM Tilongkabila.
The duration depends on the ship, voyage route, intermediate port stops, weather conditions, and operational circumstances.
For travelers with a tight itinerary, flying is usually the faster option. However, ferry travel can be appealing if your priority is lower transportation costs or experiencing a long-distance sea journey.
Bali to Labuan Bajo Ferry vs Plane
Choosing between a ferry and a plane depends largely on your budget and travel priorities.
Flying from Bali to Labuan Bajo can save a significant amount of time, while the ferry requires more than a full day of travel. However, ferry tickets can be considerably cheaper, particularly when flights are expensive during holidays.
| Factor | Ferry | Plane |
|---|---|---|
| Travel time | Around 1–2 days | Much faster |
| Ticket cost | Generally more affordable | Usually more expensive |
| Experience | Sea journey | Quick transportation |
| Schedule | Limited | More frequent |
| Best for | Budget travelers and slow travel | Travelers with limited time |
If you have several days available and want to keep transportation costs low, the ferry can be worth considering.
If your Labuan Bajo itinerary is short, flying is usually more practical.
How to Book Bali to Labuan Bajo Ferry Tickets
The easiest way to book Bali to Labuan Bajo ferry tickets is through Pelni's official booking channels.
Pelni provides ticket reservations through its official website and Pelni Mobile application. Tickets can also be obtained through Pelni branch offices, the official contact center, and authorized sales partners.
When booking, prepare the following information:
- Departure port
- Destination port
- Travel date
- Number of adult passengers
- Number of infant passengers, if applicable
- Passenger identification details
- Preferred ship or available voyage
Always make sure the passenger information matches the identification document that will be used during the journey.
Tips for Buying Pelni Ferry Tickets
Buying early is recommended, particularly if you plan to travel during school holidays, public holidays, Christmas, New Year, or other busy travel periods.
Pelni's official channels are also preferable because travelers can reduce the risk of purchasing fake or invalid tickets.
Before completing your booking, double-check the following information:
- Departure date
- Departure time
- Port
- Destination
- Ship name
- Passenger name
- Passenger identification number
- Ticket class
- Total payment
Do not rely on screenshots or old schedules posted on social media if the information does not match the latest booking system.
Bali to Labuan Bajo Ferry Schedule in June 2026
June 2026 schedules included several Pelni voyages connecting Bali and Labuan Bajo.
For example, KM Binaiya operated a Benoa–Labuan Bajo voyage in June, while KM Tilongkabila also served the route during the same period.
Some June schedules showed the Bali–Labuan Bajo journey taking approximately 1 day 9 hours.
There were also Labuan Bajo–Bali sailings during June. One example showed KM Tilongkabila departing Labuan Bajo at 18:00 WITA and reaching Benoa approximately 1 day 11 hours later.
These examples are useful for understanding the route pattern, but they should not be used as a current booking schedule because June 2026 has already passed.
Bali to Labuan Bajo Ferry Schedule in July 2026
July 2026 also had several Bali–Labuan Bajo sailings operated by Pelni ships.
KM Binaiya and KM Tilongkabila appeared on different July voyages, with some departures from Benoa followed by arrival in Labuan Bajo approximately one day later.
During this period, promotional fares were also available under Pelni's 30% discount program. Some reported Benoa–Labuan Bajo economy fares fell from around Rp295,500 to approximately Rp217,200 during the promotional period.
The discount program was limited to certain travel dates and ended in August 2026. Therefore, the promotional price should not be used as the current standard fare.
Bali to Labuan Bajo Ferry Tickets 2025
Searches for Bali to Labuan Bajo ferry tickets may still show 2025 prices, but these figures should be treated as historical references.
Fares and schedules can change between years because of changes in operating schedules, government policies, port charges, promotions, and other factors.
For that reason, a 2025 ticket price should not be presented as the current 2026 fare.
If your search results show an old fare, compare it with the latest information available through Pelni before making a booking.
Is Bali to Labuan Bajo Ferry Suitable for Tourists?
Yes, particularly for travelers who have flexible schedules.
The ferry can be an attractive option for backpackers, budget travelers, slow travelers, and people who enjoy long-distance sea journeys.
However, the trip takes considerably longer than flying. Travelers should therefore allocate enough time in their itinerary and avoid scheduling important activities immediately after the expected arrival time.
It is also wise to allow extra time for possible operational changes.
What Should You Bring on the Ferry?
Because the journey can take more than 24 hours, travelers should prepare more carefully than they would for a short ferry crossing.
Useful items include:
- Identification documents
- Printed or digital ticket
- Phone and power bank
- Toiletries
- Comfortable clothing
- Personal medication
- Drinking water
- Light snacks
- Small travel pillow
- Eye mask
- Cash for incidental expenses
- A small bag containing essential items
Keep important belongings with you rather than placing everything in larger luggage.
Can You Rent a Boat in Bali After Arriving?
If your trip continues around Bali or nearby islands after arriving in Bali, private boat and island-tour packages can be another option.
One provider worth considering is 8 Island Adventure, which offers several private boat and island-tour packages around Bali, including Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.
The available packages are more suitable as an additional Bali itinerary rather than as a replacement for the Bali–Labuan Bajo Pelni route.
For example, its private boat and land tour package is designed for private island exploration, while other packages focus on Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and snorkeling activities.
Prices listed for some packages start from around Rp9.5 million for a private boat and land tour, while a premium private boat and land tour package starts at around Rp10 million. A private charter for Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan is listed from around Rp16.5 million.
Because these are private-tour packages, the final cost can depend on the package selected, number of passengers, duration, and itinerary.
Who Should Choose a Private Boat?
Private boat rental can be more attractive for groups traveling together.
Instead of purchasing individual ferry tickets, a group can choose a private itinerary and have more flexibility regarding destinations and activities.
This option can be especially interesting for families, groups of friends, photographers, or travelers who want to explore Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan without following a standard public-transport schedule.
However, private boat packages around Bali should be considered separately from the Pelni Bali–Labuan Bajo route because they serve different travel purposes.
Important Things to Check Before Departure
A ferry schedule is not something you should assume will remain unchanged.
Before leaving for the port, check your booking details again and make sure the departure time and port have not changed.
You should also arrive at the port with sufficient time for the boarding process. Avoid arriving at the last minute, especially if you are unfamiliar with Benoa Port.
Make sure your identification document, ticket, luggage, and other essential belongings are ready before entering the terminal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Direct Ferry from Bali to Labuan Bajo?
Yes. Pelni operates passenger ships on selected Bali–Labuan Bajo voyages. KM Binaiya and KM Tilongkabila are among the ships that have served this route.
How Much Is a Bali to Labuan Bajo Ferry Ticket?
The adult economy fare has been reported at around Rp295,500 for several 2026 voyages. The actual price can vary according to the sailing and passenger category.
How Much Is a Labuan Bajo to Bali Ferry Ticket?
The economy fare for Labuan Bajo–Benoa has been reported at around Rp272,000 on several 2026 schedules.
How Long Does Bali to Labuan Bajo Take by Ferry?
Recent voyages took approximately 1 day 9 hours to 1 day 13 hours, depending on the ship and route.
Which Ships Operate Bali to Labuan Bajo?
KM Binaiya and KM Tilongkabila are among the Pelni ships that have operated the route on selected voyages.
Where Can I Buy Pelni Ferry Tickets?
Pelni tickets can be purchased through official Pelni booking channels, including its website, Pelni Mobile, branch offices, contact center, and authorized ticketing partners.
Is the Ferry Cheaper Than Flying?
In many cases, ferry travel can be cheaper than airfare, but it takes substantially longer. The better choice depends on whether your priority is saving money or saving time.
Are 2025 Ticket Prices Still Valid in 2026?
Not necessarily. 2025 prices are historical information and should not be used as the basis for a 2026 booking. Always check the latest fare before paying.
Final Thoughts
Bali to Labuan Bajo ferry tickets are an affordable alternative for travelers who want to travel by sea instead of flying. Pelni operates selected voyages connecting Benoa and Labuan Bajo through ships such as KM Binaiya and KM Tilongkabila.
Based on several 2026 schedules, the adult economy fare from Benoa to Labuan Bajo is around Rp295,500, while the reverse route can be around Rp272,000. Travel time is generally more than one day, with recent voyages taking approximately 1 day 9 hours to 1 day 13 hours.
The most important thing is to check the latest schedule and fare before booking because Pelni's sailing schedules can change from month to month.
If your priority is the lowest transportation cost and you have enough time, taking a ferry can be an interesting way to travel between Bali and Labuan Bajo. If you have a tight itinerary, flying remains the faster option.