In a promising development for Bali’s cruise tourism industry, BUMN PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Pelindo) Regional III has reported a significant increase in cruise ship registrations at Benoa Harbor, Bali, scheduled for the year 2024. General Manager of Pelindo Regional III Benoa, AA Gede Agung Mataram, expressed enthusiasm, stating that there is a noticeable surge in interest in Bali as a market for cruise tourism.
Comparing the data to the records from January to December 2023, which accounted for a total of 51 cruise ships, the upcoming year shows substantial growth with 68 cruise ships planning to dock in Bali. Even within the first ten months of 2023, Benoa Harbor welcomed 31 cruise ships.
Furthermore, all cruise ships scheduled to dock in 2024 have an average length exceeding 294 meters. As part of this expansion, the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line intends to include Benoa Harbor as a regular stop for its cruise ships traveling routes in Southeast Asia, originating from Singapore. This development signifies a shift from infrequent visits to a more frequent presence, with ships making multiple stops in Singapore, Benoa, and Celukan Bawang.
The Celebrity Solstice, a luxury cruise ship measuring 317 meters in length, is expected to dock at Benoa Harbor on October 30, 2023. If all goes according to plan, this ship, known for its grandeur and launched in 2008, will be the first to exceed 300 meters in length to dock at Benoa Harbor, Denpasar, Bali. Anticipating the arrival of approximately 3,000 passengers, including the crew, the vessel is scheduled for a two-day visit, during which a variety of tourist activities will be arranged.
Moreover, Benoa Harbor boasts a docking area that can accommodate two cruise ships simultaneously, with a total length of 500 meters. This increase in cruise ship visits to Bali reflects the growing popularity of the region as a prime destination for cruise tourists, further solidifying its position on the global cruise tourism map.