A banana boat ride in Bali is a beginner-friendly water activity where a speedboat tows a banana-shaped inflatable. This guide explains what it is and how the ride works so families, couples, and small groups can get ready with confidence.
You do not need to swim. Life jackets are mandatory, and the crew gives a short safety briefing before launch. Tell them if you prefer a gentle ride or no flipping. Pack quick-dry swimwear, sunscreen, and a small towel, then follow the hand signals for a smooth first session.
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Quick answers for the banana boat ride in Bali
- Session length: about 15 minutes; timing may vary by operator.
- Beginner-friendly: life jacket provided and a short safety briefing.
- Best time: morning when the sea is calmer; check daily wind and waves. See Denpasar tide times.
- What to bring: swimwear or rash guard, sunscreen, towel, flip-flops, small water bottle; use on-site lockers if available.
- Facilities: lockers and changing rooms are common; confirm at the site.
- Weather: sessions may be delayed or rescheduled for safety during bad weather.
- Insurance: coverage differs by operator; ask what’s included.
Next step: See the Sanur Banana Boat price or the Tanjung Benoa Banana Boat price.
Last verified: 08 Nov 2025 (WITA)
Banana boat ride: how it works
A banana boat is an unpowered, banana-shaped inflatable raft towed by a speedboat or jet ski. Also called a “water sled,” here “banana boat” means the inflatable ride in Bali, not the sunscreen brand or historic cargo ships.
You’ll launch in shallow water after a short briefing. Sit astride the main tube in a line, face forward, and hold the hand grips firmly. Keep a light forward lean with bent knees to absorb small bumps.
Side tubes add stability as the tow boat runs a safe loop outside the swim zone.
Tell the crew your preference before launch, such as “gentle ride” or “no flipping.” Speed and turns are adjusted to your comfort. Sea spray is normal.
If someone falls, the driver slows, your life jacket keeps you afloat, and the crew helps you back on. The session ends where it started; follow the crew’s cues to disembark one by one.
Banana boat safety in Bali
A banana boat ride is safe when you follow the briefing and wear the right gear. Keep these basics in mind before you start.
Required gear
- Every rider must wear a properly fitted life jacket.
- Make sure your straps are snug; ask the crew to check before launch.
Life jacket checklist
- Choose the correct size for adults and children.
- Fasten all buckles; tighten waist and chest straps.
- If it feels loose when seated or during a gentle pull test, request a different size.
Standard briefing and signals
- Hand signals to know: start, stop, slow, and return to shore.
Eligibility and health
- Not recommended if you are pregnant or have heart, neck, or back issues.
- An adult must accompany children.
- Remove jewelry and loose items; secure long hair.
Important reminders
- Use a strap for glasses or remove them.
- Apply sunscreen before the life jacket goes on.
How to ride a banana boat
Follow these steps for a smooth, beginner-friendly experience.
Before you launch
- Tell the crew your ride preference (for example, “gentle ride” or “no flipping”).
- Listen to the safety briefing and learn the hand signals.
Seating and posture
- Sit facing forward in a straight line.
- Hold both grips; keep a light forward lean and bent knees.
During the ride
- Keep your core relaxed, hands on the grips, and eyes forward to anticipate bumps.
- Follow crew signals for speed and direction.
If you fall
- Stay calm; your life jacket will keep you afloat.
- Stay clear of the speedboat’s rear and propeller.
- Raise a hand and wait for the crew to bring the raft alongside, then climb back on with their help.
Ending the session
- Approach the shore slowly under crew instruction.
- Disembark one by one, keeping a hand on the grip until told to release.
What to bring for a banana boat ride in Bali
- Wear quick-dry swimwear or a rash guard with flip-flops for easy shore access.
- Pack light: a small towel, sunscreen, drinking water, and a change of clothes.
- Use a small dry bag for phones and valuables, or a locker if available.
- Glasses: Use a tight strap. If you don’t have one, remove them before the ride.
- Tie long hair securely; remove jewelry and loose items.
- Optional: swim goggles or eye drops if you wear contact lenses.
- Apply sunscreen before putting on the life jacket. See WHO sunscreen guidance.
- Hats are fine while waiting on land only.
FAQs for beginners
Is a banana boat ride safe for kids, and where should they sit?
Yes, with proper life jackets and supervision. Children are usually placed in the middle for balance. The crew decides the final seating based on weight and sea conditions. A parent can sit directly in front or behind for support.
What are the age or weight limits?
They vary by operator and equipment. Check the provider’s page before booking to confirm minimum age, weight range, and any height rules.
What should I wear? Is hijab allowed?
Wear quick-dry swimwear or a rash guard. Hijab is allowed. Choose quick-dry fabric, avoid long pins, and tuck the fabric inside the life jacket. Remove dangling accessories.
How can I prevent seasickness?
Consume a light snack 30 to 60 minutes before your activity. Pick a morning session, keep your eyes on the horizon, and breathe steadily. Consider motion sickness remedies (see NHS advice) if needed, and tell the crew if you are sensitive.
Ready to plan your ride? This page is informational. For prices, quotas, seat rules, and booking, see the Sanur or Tanjung Benoa price pages.