4-Metre Waves 27-30 October: Is It Safe to Cross to Nusa Penida?

Fast boats from Sanur to Nusa Penida can still run on 27-30 October 2026, but expect a rougher crossing: BBMKG Region III Denpasar forecasts waves of 1.25-2.5 metres in the Badung Strait, the channel boats cross to Nusa Penida and Lembongan. Off Bali's south coast and in the southern Lombok Strait, waves may reach 4 metres, so south-facing beaches and open-sea trips are the most affected.

BBMKG forecaster Luh Eka Arisanti gave the forecast to ANTARA Bali on 26 October 2026, and IDN Times Bali repeated it on 27 October. As of midday 27 October 2026 we found no official notice closing the Sanur-Nusa Penida crossing. Whether boats sail is decided by the local harbour master and can change hour by hour.

The official numbers

• Southern Bali waters and southern Lombok Strait: 2.5-4 m waves.
• Badung Strait, southern Bali Strait, northern Lombok Strait: 1.25-2.5 m.
• Wind: east to south-east, up to 25 knots north of Bali and 20 knots in the south.
• BMKG risk thresholds: fishing boats at 15 knots and 1.25 m waves; barges at 16 knots and 1.5 m; ferries at 21 knots and 2.5 m.

In other words, the top of the Badung Strait forecast already touches the ferry risk threshold. Small fast boats react to swell more than ferries do, so delayed or cancelled afternoon departures would not be surprising if the wind picks up.

What it means for your plans

Sanur to Nusa Penida or Lembongan. Roughly 30-45 minutes across the Badung Strait. Expect spray and more seasickness than usual. Our general take on this route is in is the fast boat to Nusa Penida safe.

Padangbai or Serangan to the Gilis and Lombok. This route crosses the Lombok Strait and spends much longer in open water. The northern strait has the same forecast as the Badung Strait, while the southern part reaches 4 m. Routes and operators are covered in our fast boat guide to the Gilis and Lombok.

Snorkelling and boat tours on Nusa Penida's south side. Spots such as Manta Point sit in open water facing the Indian Ocean. Operators can cancel in poor conditions, so ask upfront whether you get a refund or a new date.

South Bali beaches. The swell arrives on top of the peak tides already announced for 25-31 October (see which beaches to watch during the king tides). On Sunday evening, 25 October 2026, two teenagers were pulled away by the current at high tide at Dangin Berawah Beach in Jembrana, and one died (detikBali, 26 October). Few tourists go there, but the pattern applies anywhere: standing at the water's edge at high tide, after dark.

What to do until 30 October

• Choose a morning boat. Winds around Bali are usually calmer in the morning than in the afternoon.
• Confirm with the operator the day before and again on the morning of travel, by WhatsApp or at the counter.
• Do not return from Nusa Penida on the same day as an international flight. Leave one night on mainland Bali.
• Take seasickness tablets 30-60 minutes before boarding, sit mid-boat, and keep your passport and phone in a dry bag.
• Check that life jackets are on board and where they are before departure.
• Read the ticket's cancellation terms. Weather refund policies differ between operators and booking sites.
• On the beach, obey red flags and Balawista lifeguards. Flag meanings are in our Bali beach safety article, and other rules on the Bali rules page.

If your flight home is on 29-31 October, booking the last night in Sanur or near the airport with an AccessiaPass hotel voucher gives you a buffer in case the boat back from Nusa Penida is delayed.

Where to follow updates

BBMKG recommends following @infobmkg and @bmkgbali on Instagram and the Info BMKG app. Wave warnings can be extended or lifted early, so check again on the morning you travel. Sources: ANTARA Bali (26 October 2026), IDN Times Bali (27 October 2026), detikBali (26 October 2026), all checked 27 October 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Are Nusa Penida fast boats cancelled on 27-30 October? As of midday 27 October we found no closure notice. Individual departures can still be delayed, so check with your operator that morning.

If the boat is cancelled for weather, do I get my money back? It depends on the operator and where you bought the ticket. Some rebook, some refund. Keep your booking and a screenshot of the cancellation notice for a travel insurance claim.

Is it safe to swim at Kuta or Canggu this week? The southern swell is high and coincides with peak tides. Swim only between the red-and-yellow flags patrolled by Balawista and stay out of the water after sunset.