Quick Answer
The best way to get from Nunukan to Juwata Airport (Tarakan) is by taking a speedboat from Nunukan Ferry Terminal to Tarakan Ferry Terminal (1.5–2 hours, 200,000–350,000 IDR / $13–$23), then a taxi or ride-hailing car to the airport (10–15 minutes, 50,000–100,000 IDR / $3–$7). Total journey time: ~2 hours. The cheapest option is the regular ferry (3–4 hours + taxi, total 110,000–200,000 IDR / $7–$14). For maximum speed, a direct flight from Nunukan Airport (NNX) takes just 30 minutes but costs 500,000–1,200,000 IDR ($33–$80) and has limited schedules.
🚢 Ferry from Nunukan to Tarakan (then to Juwata Airport)
The regular ferry is the most economical way to travel from Nunukan to Tarakan, and onward to Juwata Airport. Operated primarily by ASDP Indonesia Ferry and local Pelni affiliates, this service connects Nunukan Ferry Terminal to Tarakan Ferry Terminal on a daily schedule.
Ferry Journey Details
- Route: Nunukan Ferry Terminal → Tarakan Ferry Terminal
- Duration: 3–4 hours (depending on weather and tide)
- Ticket price: Economy 60,000–80,000 IDR ($4–$5); VIP/AC 90,000–100,000 IDR ($6–$7)
- Departures: Typically 07:00, 10:00, 13:00, and 16:00 (subject to change)
- Operator: ASDP Indonesia Ferry (indonesiaferry.co.id)
Step-by-Step (Ferry + Taxi to Airport)
- Buy ticket at Nunukan Ferry Terminal counter (no advance booking needed except peak season).
- Board the ferry — economy class is basic but air-conditioned VIP class offers reclining seats.
- Arrive at Tarakan Ferry Terminal — walk out to the main road where taxis and ride-hailing are available.
- Take a taxi or Gojek/Grab to Juwata Airport (6 km, 10–15 min, 50,000–100,000 IDR / $3–$7).
Ferry Comfort & Amenities
| Class | Seats | AC | Snacks | Price (IDR) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | Bench / plastic | Yes (central) | Not included | 60,000–80,000 | $4–$5 |
| VIP / Executive | Reclining cloth | Yes (cabin) | Light snack + water | 90,000–100,000 | $6–$7 |
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Pros: Lowest cost; multiple daily departures; no booking stress; luggage allowed freely.
- ❌ Cons: Longest travel time; basic comfort in economy; can be rough in choppy seas; no night sailings.
Source: ASDP Indonesia Ferry official schedule (accessed 2025).
🚤 Speedboat – Faster & More Comfortable
For travelers who prefer speed and comfort over cost, the speedboat (kapal cepat) from Nunukan to Tarakan is the recommended option. It cuts travel time by more than half and provides a smoother ride.
Speedboat Journey Details
- Route: Nunukan Speedboat Jetty → Tarakan Ferry Terminal (same harbor)
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours (weather-dependent)
- Ticket price: 200,000–350,000 IDR ($13–$23) per person
- Operators: Multiple local companies (e.g., Bintang Fast Ferry, Bahari Express)
- Departures: Usually 08:00, 11:00, 14:00 — but frequency varies by season
Why Choose Speedboat?
- Time-saving: 1.5–2 hours vs. 3–4 hours for the ferry.
- Comfort: Assigned cushioned seats, less crowded, better ventilation.
- Less seasickness: Faster hull design cuts through waves more steadily.
- More flexible: Some operators offer on-demand departures for groups (minimum 4 pax).
Speedboat vs Ferry – Quick Comparison
| Factor | Ferry | Speedboat |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3–4 h | 1.5–2 h |
| Price (IDR) | 60,000–100,000 | 200,000–350,000 |
| Price (USD) | $4–$7 | $13–$23 |
| Comfort rating | ⭐ Basic | ⭐⭐⭐ Good |
| Seasickness risk | Moderate–high | Low–moderate |
| Best for | Budget travelers | Time-sensitive / comfort seekers |
Booking tip: Speedboat tickets can be purchased at the Nunukan Speedboat Jetty counter on the day. During holidays, book 1 day ahead via your hotel or local agent. Traveloka sometimes lists speedboat tickets for this route.
⛵ Private Boat Charter – Ultimate Flexibility
If you're traveling with a group, have heavy luggage, or need to depart at a specific time, chartering a private speedboat or fishing boat from Nunukan to Tarakan gives you total control. This is also the only option for late-night or early-morning crossings.
Private Charter Details
- Duration: 1–1.5 hours (faster than shared speedboat)
- Price: 1,500,000–3,000,000 IDR ($100–$200) per boat (up to 8–10 passengers)
- Included: Door-to-door from Nunukan jetty to Tarakan jetty; some operators include drop-off at Juwata Airport
- How to book: Contact local boat operators via your hotel in Nunukan, or use Klook / Viator for pre-arranged charters
When to Choose a Private Charter
- 🚕 Late-night arrival in Nunukan (no ferry/speedboat after 4 PM).
- 👨👩👧👦 Family or group of 4+ — cost per person becomes comparable to speedboat.
- 🧳 Excess luggage (surfboards, diving gear, etc.) — no extra baggage fees.
- ⏰ Time-critical — you set the departure time.
⚠️ Important: Always agree on the total price (including fuel) before departure. Most charters include fuel for the standard route; additional cost may apply for airport drop-off.
Reference: Local boat association rates, North Kalimantan Transport Office (dishub.kaltaraprov.go.id).
✈️ Direct Flight from Nunukan Airport (NNX) to Juwata Airport (TRK)
For travelers who value speed above all, a direct flight from Nunukan Airport (NNX) to Juwata Airport (TRK) takes just 30 minutes — the fastest possible connection. However, flight schedules are limited and prices are significantly higher than sea options.
Flight Details
- Airline: Wings Air (subsidiary of Lion Air Group) — lionair.co.id
- Route: Nunukan (NNX) → Tarakan (TRK / Juwata Airport)
- Flight time: 30 minutes
- Frequency: 1–2 flights per day (typically morning and early afternoon)
- Price: 500,000–1,200,000 IDR ($33–$80) one-way, depending on booking window and season
- Aircraft: ATR 72-600 (turboprop, ~70 seats)
Important Considerations
- Baggage: Wings Air includes 20 kg checked baggage; excess is 30,000–50,000 IDR/kg.
- Check-in: Arrive at Nunukan Airport at least 45 minutes before departure (small airport, but security check still required).
- Cancellation risk: Flights can be cancelled due to weather — have a backup plan (speedboat).
- Limited seats: Book at least 1–2 weeks ahead via Traveloka or Lion Air website.
Flight vs Speedboat – Total Time Comparison
| Option | Travel time | Check-in / waiting | To/from airport/port | Total time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flight | 30 min | 45 min | 15 min to NNX + 0 min (already at TRK) | ~1.5 hours |
| 🚤 Speedboat + taxi | 1.5–2 h | 15 min | 15 min taxi | ~2–2.5 hours |
| 🚢 Ferry + taxi | 3–4 h | 10 min | 15 min taxi | ~3.5–4.5 hours |
Source: Wings Air schedule via FlightRadar24 and Lion Air Group (2025).
🚕 Tarakan Ferry Terminal → Juwata Airport (Local Transport)
Once you arrive at Tarakan Ferry Terminal (by ferry, speedboat, or charter), you'll need to cover the final 6 km to Juwata Airport (TRK). Here are your options:
Taxi / Ride-hailing
- Taxi (metered): 50,000–80,000 IDR ($3–$5) — look for official blue taxis at the terminal stand.
- Gojek / Grab (car): 55,000–100,000 IDR ($4–$7) — book via app; pickup point is the main road outside the terminal.
- Gojek / Grab (motorcycle): 25,000–40,000 IDR ($1.50–$2.50) — only if you have light hand luggage.
Tips for a Smooth Transfer
- 📱 Download Gojek or Grab before you arrive — Tarakan has good coverage.
- 🚖 If taking a street taxi, agree on the fare before getting in (metered is preferred).
- 🧳 If you have large luggage, book a Gojek/Grab car (not motorcycle).
- 🕐 The journey takes 10–15 minutes in normal traffic; allow 20 minutes during peak (7–8 AM and 4–6 PM).
Source: Gojek Tarakan coverage map & local driver estimates, 2025.
📊 Complete Cost & Time Comparison – All Options
Use this table to compare every available way to get from Nunukan to Juwata Airport at a glance.
| Mode | Duration (sea/air) | + Taxi to airport | Total time | Total cost (IDR) | Total cost (USD) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚢 Ferry | 3–4 h | 15 min | ~3.5–4.5 h | 110,000–200,000 | $7–$14 | 💰 Budget travelers |
| 🚤 Speedboat | 1.5–2 h | 15 min | ~2–2.5 h | 250,000–450,000 | $17–$30 | ⚡ Best overall value |
| ⛵ Private charter | 1–1.5 h | included* | ~1–1.5 h | 1,500,000–3,000,000 | $100–$200 | 👨👩👧👦 Groups / late-night |
| ✈️ Flight | 30 min | 0 (airport arrival) | ~1.5 h (incl. check-in) | 500,000–1,200,000 | $33–$80 | 🏆 Fastest option |
🏆 Best Overall: Speedboat + taxi — great balance of cost, time, and comfort.
💰 Cheapest: Ferry + taxi — lowest cost but longest time.
⏱️ Fastest: Flight — 30 minutes in the air, but limited schedule and higher cost.
💡 Traveler Tips & Insider Advice for Nunukan → Juwata Airport
After traveling this route many times, here are real-world tips to make your journey smoother:
⏰ Timing & Schedules
- Morning departures are best — seas are calmer, and you'll have the whole day at Juwata Airport for connections.
- No night services — ferries and speedboats stop around 4 PM. If you arrive in Nunukan after 3 PM, you'll likely need to stay overnight or charter a private boat.
- Peak seasons (Idul Fitri, Christmas, school holidays): book ferry/speedboat tickets 1–2 days ahead, and flights 2–4 weeks ahead.
🧳 Luggage & Packing
- Sea-sickness medication — buy at a pharmacy in Nunukan before boarding. The ocean between Nunukan and Tarakan can be choppy, especially November–March.
- Keep valuables in a waterproof bag — especially on speedboats where spray can reach passengers.
- Takkyubin (行李快递) — not available on this route yet. You must carry all luggage with you.
🚕 At Tarakan Port
- Ignore touts offering "special taxis" — walk 100 meters to the main road and use Gojek/Grab for a fair price.
- ATMs available — there is a Bank Mandiri ATM inside the ferry terminal building.
- Food stalls — grab a quick snack at the port warungs (noodle soup, fried rice ~20,000 IDR / $1.30).
✈️ At Juwata Airport (TRK)
- Small airport — don't expect huge lounges. There are a few coffee shops and a convenience store.
- Domestic flights only — TRK serves routes to Balikpapan, Makassar, Surabaya, and Jakarta.
- Wi-Fi — free Wi-Fi is available but slow; download your boarding pass before arrival.
Tips compiled from local travelers and forum discussions on TripAdvisor and Reddit r/indonesia (2025).
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Nunukan to Juwata Airport
1. Is there a direct flight from Nunukan to Juwata Airport?
Yes, Wings Air (part of Lion Air Group) operates direct flights from Nunukan Airport (NNX) to Juwata Airport (TRK). The flight takes about 30 minutes, but schedules are limited — typically 1–2 flights per day. Prices range from 500,000–1,200,000 IDR (approx. $33–$80).
2. How long does the ferry from Nunukan to Tarakan take?
The regular ferry takes approximately 3–4 hours, depending on sea conditions and vessel type. Economy-class tickets cost around 60,000–100,000 IDR ($4–$7). After arriving at Tarakan port, a taxi ride to Juwata Airport takes another 10–15 minutes.
3. What is the cheapest way to get from Nunukan to Juwata Airport?
The cheapest option is the regular ferry (60,000–100,000 IDR / $4–$7) plus a short taxi ride to Juwata Airport (50,000–100,000 IDR / $3–$7). Total cost: 110,000–200,000 IDR ($7–$14). It's the most budget-friendly choice, though it takes the longest (3–4 hours at sea + 15 minutes by taxi).
4. Can I take a taxi from Tarakan port to Juwata Airport?
Yes, taxis and ride-hailing services (like Gojek and Grab) are available at Tarakan Ferry Terminal. The journey to Juwata Airport covers about 6 km and takes 10–15 minutes. Expect to pay 50,000–100,000 IDR ($3–$7). We recommend using a metered taxi or ride-hailing app for transparency.
5. Are there night ferries from Nunukan to Tarakan?
Currently, there are no scheduled night ferries between Nunukan and Tarakan. Most ferry departures operate between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM. For late-night travel, consider a private speedboat charter or check if a flight is available on your date.
6. How far is Juwata Airport from Tarakan port?
Juwata Airport (TRK) is located approximately 6 km southeast of Tarakan Ferry Terminal. By taxi or ride-hailing car, the trip takes 10–15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The route is straightforward — head south along Jalan Yos Sudarso and follow airport signs.
7. Is it better to take a speedboat or ferry from Nunukan to Tarakan?
It depends on your budget and schedule. The speedboat is faster (1.5–2 hours vs. 3–4 hours) and more comfortable, but costs 200,000–350,000 IDR ($13–$23) compared to the ferry at 60,000–100,000 IDR ($4–$7). If you're on a tight schedule or prone to seasickness, the speedboat is worth the extra cost. For budget travelers, the ferry is perfectly fine.
8. Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance from Nunukan to Tarakan?
For the regular ferry, advance booking is generally not required — tickets are sold at the Nunukan Ferry Terminal on the day of departure. However, during peak travel seasons (Idul Fitri, Christmas/New Year, school holidays) it's wise to buy your ticket 1–2 days ahead. Speedboat tickets and flight seats should always be booked in advance, especially for weekends.