Balikpapan Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Balikpapan is well-connected to major Indonesian cities through multiple transportation options. Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Airport offers direct flights from Jakarta (about 2 hours) and other regional hubs. For those already in Kalimantan, bus services connect Balikpapan to Samarinda (about 3 hours) and other nearby cities. The ferry terminal is easily accessible by taxi or public bus from the city center, with regular service running throughout the day. If arriving by private vehicle, secure parking facilities are available near the ferry port, though it's advisable to arrive early during peak travel seasons.

Nestled on the eastern coast of Borneo, Balikpapan blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. This bustling Indonesian port city serves as a vital gateway to Kalimantan, offering visitors a fascinating mix of modern amenities and traditional Bornean culture. As a key maritime hub, Balikpapan welcomes travelers with its clean beaches, vibrant markets, and surprising pockets of lush rainforest just beyond the city limits.

Balikpapan enjoys a tropical climate with relatively consistent temperatures year-round, though rainfall patterns vary significantly. The driest months from July to September offer the most reliable weather for exploring the city and taking ferry trips to neighboring destinations. May brings the vibrant Balikpapan Festival, celebrating local culture with performances and food stalls. The December to February period sees heavier rainfall but fewer tourists, potentially offering better accommodation rates. Ferry services operate year-round, though rough seas during the rainy season occasionally cause delays or cancellations.

Balikpapan serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring East Kalimantan's coastal treasures. Regular ferries connect travelers to Penajam (approximately 30 minutes), offering pristine beaches and a glimpse into traditional fishing villages. The journey to Derawan Islands (about 6-8 hours by combined ferry and speedboat) rewards visitors with world-class diving sites and turtle conservation areas. Adventurous travelers can also reach Bontang (3-4 hours), known for its mangrove forests and floating villages. The ferry route to Makassar crosses the Makassar Strait, providing breathtaking ocean views and potential dolphin sightings along the way.

Balikpapan offers a wealth of experiences within easy reach of its ferry port. Kemala Beach provides a perfect sunset spot with local seafood stalls serving fresh catches prepared in traditional Kalimantan styles. The Manggar Segarasari Beach area combines swimming opportunities with cultural performances on weekends. Don't miss Kebun Sayur Market for an authentic shopping experience where locals source everything from exotic fruits to handcrafted souvenirs. The Kilang Mandiri Neighborhood showcases the city's oil industry heritage through preserved colonial architecture and informative displays. Nature enthusiasts should visit the nearby mangrove preservation area, where guided boardwalk tours reveal the region's rich coastal ecosystem.

Balikpapan earned the nickname 'Oil City' due to its history as Indonesia's earliest petroleum production center, with the first oil well drilled here in 1897. Despite its industrial reputation, Balikpapan has won multiple awards as one of Indonesia's cleanest cities, with strict environmental regulations protecting its coastline. The city's name allegedly comes from 'balik' (behind) and 'papan' (plank), referring to when timber boards would wash back to shore after being thrown into the sea. Local maritime tradition holds that feeding the fish at Manggar pier brings good luck to sailors embarking on long journeys.