Destination: Lombok & the Gili Islands, Indonesia
Introduction
Lombok lies just 25 nm east of Bali across the Lombok Strait — one of the world's most significant biogeographical boundaries (the Wallace Line), where Asian flora and fauna give way to Australasian species. For cruising sailors, the island is synonymous with the three Gili Islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno — small coral-fringed islets off Lombok's northwest coast with turquoise shallows, white sand bars, outstanding snorkelling, and a thoroughly laid-back atmosphere entirely free of motor vehicles. The backdrop of Gunung Rinjani, Lombok's 3,726 m active volcano, provides a dramatic stage. Lombok's traditional Sasak culture is distinct from Bali's Hindu influence, offering a genuinely different perspective within the same archipelago.
GPS Coordinates
8° 34' 59.880"S 116° 7' 0.120"E
8 34 59.880S 116 7 0.120E
Protected Anchorages
The main cruising anchorage is off the Gili Islands in Teluk Nare (Nare Bay) on Lombok's northwest coast — anchor in 5–12 m over white sand with excellent holding. The Gilis themselves are encircled by a marine park with mooring buoys available off Gili Trawangan (west side) and Gili Air in 6–10 m; sand between coral outcrops — drag a hook before leaving unattended. Anchor well clear of the buoyed swim zones. The strait between the Gilis and the Lombok coast can carry strong currents especially at springs; allow for set when manoeuvring. The bay of Senggigi, further south on Lombok's west coast, offers an alternative anchorage in 8–15 m but is more exposed to westerly swell. No marina on Lombok — all services are limited; fuel by jerrycan, water from shore.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
Lombok is not a designated Port of Entry — your CAIT must list Lombok or the Gili Islands as an approved stop. If arriving from Bali with a valid CAIT that includes Lombok, report to the local Harbour Master (Syahbandar) at Teluk Nare or Bangsal for check-in formalities. Do not anchor at the Gilis without checking in at the designated port listed on your CAIT. Officials are generally relaxed but spot checks do occur. Ensure your CAIT covers the specific anchorages you plan to use.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- Lombok Yacht Club (informal, Senggigi)
Renowned Attractions
- Gili Trawangan snorkelling — shallow reef gardens around the island with green sea turtles, reef sharks, and exceptional coral diversity
- Gili Meno — quietest of the three Gilis with a small salt lake and the most pristine underwater environment
- Gili Air — relaxed atmosphere, strong local community, good restaurants and dive operators
- Gunung Rinjani National Park — Indonesia's second-highest volcano at 3,726 m; multi-day trekking to the crater lake (Segara Anak) for the adventurous
- Sasak villages — traditional Lombok culture with distinctive architecture, weaving, and the Pura Lingsar temple complex
- Senaru and Sembalun — gateway villages to Rinjani with waterfalls and highland scenery
- Kuta Lombok (Mandalika) — spectacular crescent bays on the south coast; undeveloped compared to Bali Kuta and increasingly popular with surfers
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Lombok and the Gili Islands deliver the essence of Indonesian island cruising — impossibly clear water, coral gardens teeming with turtles, and Gunung Rinjani looming on the horizon. A perfect two-to-four day stop on the eastward passage from Bali.