Is the flight expensive?

No, it is generally affordable due to high competition.

How often do ships sail?

Ships usually sail once or twice a week.

Yes, it is a major city and generally safe for tourists.

Yes, there are multiple direct flights daily.

What is the best way to travel?

Flying is the most practical and time-efficient way.

Balikpapan

Makassar

Flight Ship

Balikpapan to Makassar

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Balikpapan to Makassar crosses the Makassar Strait. Flights are the most efficient, taking about 1 hour, while ships take approximately 18-20 hours. Flights depart from SAMS Sepinggan and arrive at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport. This is a key route connecting the resource-rich Kalimantan to the commercial hub of Eastern Indonesia.

Total Distance: Driving distance N/A, Air distance 500 km.

Fastest Way

Direct flight, 1 hour.

Cheapest Way

Pelni ship, starting at IDR 300,000.

Compare Balikpapan to Makassar Routes

	Flight Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	1 hour	19 hours
Avg Price	IDR 700,000 - 1,500,000	IDR 300,000 - 500,000
Operator	Lion Air	Pelni
Route	SAMS Sepinggan (BPN) to Sultan Hasanuddin (UPG)	Semayang Port to Soekarno-Hatta Port (Makassar)
Tip	Flights are very frequent due to high business demand.	Check the Pelni schedule as ships do not sail daily.

Travel Tips

Airport Transport
Use the airport shuttle or taxis to reach Makassar city center.
Ship Tickets
Buy tickets only through official channels to avoid scams.
Food
Try Coto Makassar, a famous local beef soup, at a local warung.
Packing
Bring a light jacket for the air-conditioned ship cabins.
Navigation
Download offline maps as signal can be spotty on the sea.