In Reply to: Getting to Lombok... posted by grobbos on Saturday, 18. July 2009 at 18:56 Bali Time:
If you are only going to Lombok for 2 days, then don't go by slow slow ferry - you will spend your two days travelling.
Your options are:
fly - which you know about and really is the best option for a short stay like yours.
fast boat - see this link for your options. http://www.lombok-network.com/by_fastboat.htm
The cost of fast boats is about double that of flying.
Most of them go to Teluk Kodek on Lombok and across to the Gili islands. Teluk Kodek is maybe 30 mins from Senggigi.
You choice is to travel up to Padang Bai (about 1.5 hours from Kuta) and get a quick crossing to Lombok (around 1 hour), or leave from Benoa (20 mins from Kuta) and travel 2.5 hours to Lombok (and a rougher trip).
As to whether to book there or from home - it will cost you more to book from home, but then you know you have your booking, but beware - in the past I've been quoted ridiculous prices when I've enquired about flights from Australian travel agents. If you are going to be in Bali for a few days before going to Lombok then definately book there. Your hotel, or just about any tourist agent on the street, can organise it for you.