Benoa Port Expansion Drives Cruise Growth, but Individual Sea Travel Still Relies on Padang Bai
Denpasar, Bali – Benoa Port is playing an increasingly important role in Bali’s maritime tourism sector as international cruise arrivals continue to rise following major infrastructure upgrades. The port’s expansion has strengthened Bali’s position on global cruise routes, while also contributing to broader growth in sea-based passenger traffic.
In the first half of January 2026, Benoa Port received six international cruise vessels, bringing more than 5,500 passengers and nearly 2,800 crew members to the island. Visiting ships included Ovation of the Seas, Le Jacques Cartier, Seven Seas Navigator, Regatta, Viking Orion, and Paspaley Pearl. On two days, the port successfully handled parallel docking operations, with two cruise ships berthed at the same time.
According to port management, these operations demonstrate improved coordination and readiness. The eastern pier at Benoa has been extended from 350 meters to 500 meters, allowing the port to accommodate two large cruise ships simultaneously and support full turnaround services, including embarkation and debarkation.
The growth in cruise activity has contributed to increased demand for local transport, guided tours, and tourism services, as cruise passengers typically spend short periods visiting Bali’s main attractions. Authorities also note that the rising number of cruise calls has a broader impact on ferry and maritime traffic around southern Bali.
However, despite Benoa Port’s expanding role, there is currently no direct, practical one-stop connection from the port for individual travelers heading to popular island destinations such as Lombok or the Gili Islands. Cruise operations at Benoa are primarily designed for large vessels and organized passenger movements rather than independent travel.
For individual travelers planning onward journeys by sea, the main departure point remains Padang Bai. The port on Bali’s east coast continues to serve as the primary hub for public ferries and fast boat services to Lombok and the Gili Islands, offering more frequent departures and better connectivity for independent travel.
Cruise traffic at Benoa Port has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2023, the port welcomed 48 cruise ships carrying just over 78,000 passengers. This increased to 56 ships and more than 107,000 passengers in 2024, and further rose to 65 ships with approximately 140,000 visitors in 2025. Interest from international cruise operators is expected to continue into 2026, reinforcing Benoa Port’s role in Bali’s cruise tourism sector.
While Benoa Port’s expansion marks a significant step for large-scale maritime tourism, Padang Bai remains the most practical option for individual travelers seeking sea connections beyond Bali.
