How to Get from Radin Inten II Airport to Bakauheni Port (Ferry to Java)

For travelers prioritizing comfort, time, and a hassle-free transfer—especially with luggage or in a group—hiring a private car or taking an official airport taxi is the top recommendation.

Step-by-Step Process & Options

1. Pre-Booked Online Transfer: The most reliable method. Book through reputable travel platforms like Booking.com, Traveloka, or local tour operators. A driver will meet you at arrivals with a sign.
   • Advantage: Fixed price, English-speaking drivers often available, car type guaranteed.
   • Cost: IDR 350,000 – 500,000 for a standard car.
2. Official Airport Taxi Counter: Inside the arrivals hall, you'll find licensed taxi counters (like Lampung Taxi). Pay a fixed fare at the counter, get a voucher, and proceed to the assigned taxi.
   • Advantage: Official and regulated, minimal negotiation.
   • Cost: Slightly higher, around IDR 400,000 – 550,000. Always confirm the price includes tolls.
3. Negotiating with Drivers: Outside the terminal, informal drivers may offer services. Exercise caution.
   • Tip: Only consider this if you are confident in negotiating. Agree on a total, all-inclusive price (IDR 300,000 – 450,000) before entering the vehicle.

Route & Key Considerations

The journey covers roughly 70-80 km. The driver will take the Jalan Lintas Sumatra (Trans-Sumatra Highway). Key factors affecting your trip:

Factor	Impact	Tip
Traffic	Can be heavy, especially on weekends & near Bakauheni.	Allow a buffer. Travel early in the day.
Tolls	One or two small toll sections may apply.	Confirm if the quoted price includes toll fees.
Ferry Schedule	Ferries run 24/7 but waits can occur.	Tell your driver your ferry time; they often know best routes.

Grab and Gojek are ubiquitous in Indonesia and offer a middle ground between taxis and public transport, with transparent pricing via their apps.

How to Book & What to Expect

1. Connectivity: Ensure you have a local SIM card or roaming data to use the app at the airport.
2. Pickup Point: Follow signs at TKG Airport for the designated Grab/Gojek pickup zone, usually in the parking area.
3. Service Type: Select “GrabCar” or “GoCar” (not motorbike) for this long journey with luggage.
4. Pricing: The app gives a fixed price. For Bakauheni, it typically ranges from IDR 280,000 to IDR 400,000. Prices surge during peak hours or bad weather.

Pros, Cons & Deep Analysis

• Pros:
  • Price Transparency: No haggling; you see the cost upfront.
  • Convenience: Easy payment via cash or app-linked card.
  • Tracking: Route and driver details are shared for safety.
• Cons & Challenges:
  • Driver Acceptance: Some drivers may refuse the long trip. Be prepared to try multiple times.
  • Wait Time: Finding a driver willing to go to Bakauheni can take longer than a pre-booked car.
  • Luggage Space: Confirm the car type (e.g., GrabCar Plus) if you have large suitcases.

Expert Tip: You can try booking a “Multi-Stop” trip in the app. Set your first destination as a nearby gas station or mall, then add Bakauheni as the second stop. Sometimes, this increases the chance of a driver accepting, as they see a shorter initial leg.

This is the most economical method but requires patience, flexibility, and a willingness to navigate local transport. Ideal for solo travelers with light luggage on a tight budget.

The Detailed, Step-by-Step Journey

1. Step 1: Damri Bus from TKG to Terminal Rajabasa.
   • Exit the airport terminal and look for the bright orange Damri buses.
   • Route: They shuttle regularly to Rajabasa, the main intercity bus terminal in Bandar Lampung.
   • Cost: Approximately IDR 25,000 – 35,000.
   • Travel Time: 45 – 70 minutes, depending on city traffic.
2. Step 2: At Rajabasa Terminal, Find Bus/Angkot to Bakauheni.
   • This is the challenging part. The terminal is busy. Ask locals “Bakauheni?”
   • Option A (Bus): Look for smaller buses or “travel” vans with “BAKAUHENI” on the windshield.
     • Cost: IDR 30,000 – 40,000.
     • They leave when reasonably full.
   • Option B (Angkot): Green or blue minivans. They make many stops but are cheaper.
     • Cost: IDR 15,000 – 25,000.
     • Tell the driver “Pelabuhan Bakauheni” (Bakauheni Port).
3. Step 3: Arrival at Bakauheni. The bus/angkot will drop you at the main road near the port entrance. You may need a short ojek (motorbike taxi) ride (IDR 5,000-10,000) to the specific ferry terminal building.

Critical Practical Advice

• Luggage: Large bags are a major inconvenience. You'll need to haul them on/off vehicles in crowded spaces.
• Time: The entire process can take 3 to 4.5 hours. Do not attempt this if you have a tight ferry schedule.
• Safety: Keep valuables close. The terminal is generally safe but be aware of your surroundings.
• Language: Knowing basic Indonesian phrases (numbers, “where,” “stop”) is extremely helpful. Have your destination written down.

Data Point: According to a 2023 survey by Indonesia Travel, only about 12% of foreign tourists opt for this full public transport route due to its complexity, but it offers an authentic local experience.

Traveling by motorbike is a common local mode of transport. While it's the fastest in terms of weaving through traffic, it is only suitable for adventurous travelers with one small backpack.

How to Arrange an Ojek for a Long Distance

• Via App (Gojek/Grab): You can book a GoRide or GrabBike. However, most app drivers will decline a trip of this distance and duration. It's not the intended use of the service.
• Traditional Ojek at the Airport: Outside the terminal, you may find ojek drivers. You must negotiate aggressively.
  • Expected Price: IDR 150,000 – 250,000.
  • Must-Haves: A helmet (provided by driver), sunscreen, and secure clothing for a 1.5+ hour ride on a highway.

Severe Drawbacks & Warnings

Risk Factor	Explanation
Safety	High-speed highway with trucks and buses. No protection in case of an accident. High risk.
Comfort	Extremely uncomfortable for a long trip. Exposure to sun, rain, wind, and pollution.
Luggage	Impossible unless you have a single small bag you can wear.
Reliability	Driver may get lost or tire on the long ride. No formal agreement or insurance.

Our Verdict: We do not recommend this option for virtually all tourists. The safety risks far outweigh any potential savings in time or money.

At Bakauheni Port: What to Do

1. Buying Tickets: If you haven't booked online, head to the ASDP ticket counters. Ferries run 24/7, but queues can be long on weekends/holidays.
   • Passenger Ticket: IDR 15,000 – 25,000 per person.
   • Car Ticket: Additional fee if you're in a private car.
2. Boarding Process: After getting your ticket, you and your vehicle (if any) will be directed to a waiting lane. Pedestrians walk onto the ferry.
3. Facilities: Basic waiting areas, small food stalls (warung), and toilets are available.

The Ferry Crossing to Merak Port, Java

• Duration: The crossing takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on sea conditions.
• Onboard: Ferries are basic but functional. You can sit in airline-style seats or on benches. Vendors sell snacks and drinks.
• Pro Tip: If traveling by car, do not stay in your vehicle during the crossing. Go upstairs for safety and fresh air.

Arrival in Merak & Onward Travel

Upon arrival at Merak Port in Java, you'll find a similar array of transport:

• To Jakarta: Frequent intercity buses and trains (from Merak station) head to the capital. A bus takes 2-3 hours.
• To Other Java Destinations: The port area is a major transport hub. Buses depart for Bandung, Yogyakarta, and beyond.

Final Recommendation from Experience: Treat the entire journey (Airport -> Road -> Ferry) as a single, 5-7 hour travel day. Don't plan critical meetings or tight connections in Java on the same day. Purchase snacks and water before boarding the ferry for maximum comfort.