Makassar
Makassar
Surabaya
Surabaya
Flight Ship

Makassar to Surabaya

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Makassar to Surabaya is possible via air or sea. Flights are the most efficient, connecting Sultan Hasanuddin Airport to Juanda International Airport in under two hours. Alternatively, Pelni ships offer a budget-friendly but slow maritime route across the Java Sea. Surabaya is the gateway to East Java, including Mount Bromo. This route is vital for trade and logistics between the two major port cities.

Total Distance: 850 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Direct flight is the fastest, taking only 90 minutes.
Cheapest Way
Pelni ship is the most economical option for budget travelers.
Compare Makassar to Surabaya Routes
Flight
Direct
Ship
Direct
Duration 1 hour 30 mins 24 hours
Avg Price 900,000 - 1,800,000 IDR 400,000 - 600,000 IDR
Operator Lion Air PT Pelni
Route UPG to SUB. Soekarno-Hatta Port to Tanjung Perak Port.
Tip Book early to secure lower fares on budget airlines. Bring your own snacks and entertainment for the long sea voyage.
Travel Tips
  • Port Access
    Tanjung Perak Port is busy; arrive early for boarding.
  • Flight Booking
    Use travel apps to compare prices between Lion Air and Citilink.
  • Local Transport
    Use Gojek or Grab for reliable transport in Surabaya.
  • Weather
    Surabaya can be very hot; carry light clothing.
  • Food
    Try the local Rawon, a black beef soup, while in Surabaya.
Safety Tips
  • Ship Safety
    Keep your luggage locked at all times on the ship.
  • Traffic
    Surabaya traffic is dense; plan your commute accordingly.
  • Health
    Carry basic medication for seasickness if taking the ship.
  • Emergency
    Know the location of the nearest hospital.
People Also Ask
  • How long is the ship journey?
    The Pelni ship journey takes approximately 24 hours.
  • Are there daily flights?
    Yes, multiple airlines operate daily flights between Makassar and Surabaya.
  • Is it better to fly or take a ship?
    Flying is much faster and more comfortable for most travelers.
  • What is the main port in Surabaya?
    Tanjung Perak is the primary port.
  • Can I book Pelni tickets online?
    Yes, via the official Pelni website or mobile app.
Quick Info
  • From Makassar, Sulawesi Selatan, Indonesia
  • To Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

April to October for dry weather.

Things to Do in Surabaya
1
House of Sampoerna
A museum dedicated to the history of the Indonesian kretek cigarette industry.
2
Surabaya Submarine Monument
A real Russian-made submarine turned into a museum located in the city center.
3
Mount Bromo
A world-famous active volcano accessible via a 3-hour drive from Surabaya.
4
Cheng Ho Mosque
A unique mosque with Chinese architectural influences.
Tags
Makassar to Surabaya Pelni ship Makassar flight Makassar Surabaya travel Sulawesi to Java Surabaya transport Sultan Hasanuddin to Juanda Pelni schedule cheap travel Indonesia