In Reply to: Getting to the Gili Isles? posted by GRD on Friday, 17. November 2006 at 18:22 Bali Time:
The best way is to fly to Selaparang Airport in Mataram and then go by taxi to the harbour in Bangsal. Charter a boat in Bangsal Harbour. You can be on one of the islands in 1 1/2 - 2 hours.
The most economical way is to go by public bus from Kuta (if that's where you'r starting your trip) to Padangbai, go by the public ferry to Lembar. Public bus from Lembar - Bangsal, (you will have to change bus in Sweta), public boat to one of the islands.
Another option is to book a trip from Kuta, with Perama Tours, office on Jalan Legian. They bring you to Padangbai, then by ferry to Lembar, once on Lombok they bring you to Bangsal harbour. There you will have to take the public boat for the island of your choice.
Going with the ferry is a lengthy, dirty and sometimes very caotic experiense, doesen't recommend it at all.