Differences Between Speedboat, Fast Boat, and Fast Ferry in Bali
When hearing the word ‘fast ferry’, many travelers assume it is a large, slow vessel just like RoRo ferries, meanwhile ‘speed boat’ is a tiny open boat. But once you are in Sanur or Padang Bai harbour, the boats referred with these names look nearly identical. So confusing!
These terms for different sea transportation are used interchangeably in Bali’s tourism industry. It is because the words are used more for marketing instead of as a strict maritime classification.
Theoretical Definitions vs Real-World Usage
- Speedboat
In theory a speedboat is described as a small open or semi-open boat using outboard engines. A speedboat can carry 10-20 passengers. But in Bali harbours a speedboat is used to describe short route vessel, like Sanur to Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan. For a longer route like Bali to Gili islands, the operators use this term rarely, even though for tourists, it is very common to refer to every fast vessel as a speedboat. - Fast Boat (Most Common Term)
A fast boat is bigger than a speedboat but as big as a fast ferry. So, we can say it is a mid-sized passenger boat. Fast boats are equipped with an enclosed cabin, air-conditioning, toilet and around 4-6 outboard engines. The capacity of a fast boat is around 30-80 passengers.Fast boats are typically used to serve Bali to Gili islands by around 90% of operators. If you book a speedboat from Bali to Gili Islands, you are most likely to actually depart with a fast boat.
- Fast Ferry
Fast ferries are larger and usually aluminium multihull vessels (catamaran/trimaran), that are designed for bigger capacity, around 100-200 or even more. In Bali harbours, the term ‘fast ferry’ is not a slow car-carrying RoRo ferry. Fast Ferry is still a high-speed transportation. They are also often used by premium operators to convey great stability, higher comfort and better safety perception. However, many standard fiber fast boats label themselves a ‘fast ferry’ simply for branding.
Why Different Names for Similar Boats?
- Marketing Strategy
Most of the time, the operators will use the words that would interest the customers. The word ‘ferry’ sounds stable and safe while ‘speed’ sounds fast and efficient. Both words sound appealing for travellers looking for safety and efficiency. - Language Simplification
As most locals do not hold any formal education in this field, many locals who work not directly with the boat, such as the ticket agent, categorized all high-speed outboard-powered vessels the same way, putting aside the different hull designs. - Operational Flexibility
Sometimes, the operator sees that there are not enough passengers to fill the large fast ferry, then they will change it to a medium fast boat on the departure day. Using the terms interchangeably help to have a smooth last minute change for a more efficient operation.
How to choose the right boat
If you want to go from Bali to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan or even the Gili Islands, instead of focusing on the label, make sure you spend your energy on these tangible factors:
- Vessel Materials
The fiber hull is usually lighter but this makes the motions more noticeable. Making it not very suitable for people who are sensitive with motions. Meanwhile the aluminum hull feels more stable and has less vibration.Reliable operators, like Gili Voyages, offer the vessel hull for all of their vehicles. Ensuring comfort for all passengers.
- Passenger capacity
If you are looking for comfort and more space, looking for a boat with 100+ capacity is the best option. This vehicle is usually referred as ‘fast ferry’. But if you want to have some privacy, a speedboat would be better for you since it usually has under 50 passenger capacity. - Travel Duration
To avoid confusion, just remember that if the trip takes around 1,5 to 2 hours, it is definitely a high-speed craft, no matter how the operators refer to it.
Conclusion
No need to overthink the term, just remember that Bali-Gili or Bali – Nusa Penida, Speedboat = Fast Boat = Fast Ferry, all means a fast passenger vessel and not a vehicle ferry.
Focus on the reliability rather than the operator’s marketing label. Choose Gili Voyages for your comfortable and safe travel from Bali to Gili islands or Bali to Nusa islands.
Related Post
Essential Bali Packing List: What You Need and Why
The Beauty of Diamond Beach Nusa Penida
