Bali Introduces New Water Taxi Routes to Enhance Travel Efficiency and Promote Sustainable Tourism
Bali, Indonesia – July 29, 2025
Bali has unveiled an ambitious new water taxi network designed to transform travel across the island and its neighboring regions. These services aim to cut down travel times significantly while offering passengers scenic and eco-friendly transport alternatives connecting key tourist destinations and regions.
Reducing Travel Time Between Benoa and Tanjung Benoa
A landmark addition to Bali’s transportation is the launch of a new water taxi route between Benoa and Tanjung Benoa, two of Bali’s most frequented coastal tourism hubs. Previously, travelers commuting between these areas by road through the Bali Mandara Toll Road faced a journey averaging 30 minutes. With the new ocean taxi service operated by Pelindo Regional 3, travel time has been trimmed to about 10 to 15 minutes, subject to tidal and wave conditions.
This maritime route departs from Pier 1 at Benoa Port and travels directly to Tanjung Benoa Harbor. Following a successful trial period, the service is expected to alleviate traffic congestion in busy zones such as Denpasar and popular coastal corridors. It provides tourists with an enhanced and more relaxing way to experience Bali’s stunning shoreline.
Beyond improving travel convenience, the route supports local communities by integrating micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) into the growing tourist economy, backed by social responsibility initiatives from Indonesia’s state-owned enterprises (BUMN).
Fast Boat Service Linking Banyuwangi and Denpasar Cuts Journey by More Than Half
Another critical development is the commencement of a fast boat service operating between Banyuwangi in East Java and Denpasar in Bali since June 2025. This daily crossing provides an expedited connection across the Bali Strait, dramatically reducing travel from over six hours by land to just 2.5 hours by sea.
This new route not only benefits travelers heading to Bali but also opens easier access for tourists interested in exploring East Java’s natural highlights, including Mount Ijen and the Banyuwangi region’s renowned landscapes. The fast boat service is anticipated to become a cornerstone of Bali’s maritime tourism strategy, fostering closer regional connectivity.
Expansion of Local Operators like GoBoat Extends Reach Across Bali and Nearby Islands
Complementing government-led initiatives, local operators such as GoBoat have significantly expanded their water taxi routes. Offering more than 300 daily departures, GoBoat connects major points within Bali as well as nearby islands like Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Lombok, and the Gili Islands.
GoBoat provides a practical alternative for visitors seeking to bypass road traffic congestion on the island. Its services enable convenient island-hopping, access to remote beaches, and a tranquil way to soak in Bali’s coastal beauty. As traveler demand grows, these offerings contribute substantially to enhancing Bali’s maritime tourism appeal while promoting environmentally friendly transport.
Benoa Harbor Upgrade Enables Larger Cruise Ship Accommodation
Benoa Harbor in Denpasar has received substantial upgrades to accommodate up to three large cruise ships simultaneously, each measuring around 1,100 square meters. This enhancement solidifies Bali’s position as a premier cruise destination in the region by allowing smoother passenger handling and increased visitor capacity.
The harbor’s expanded capabilities align with Bali’s broader vision of becoming a central maritime tourism hub, facilitating both local and international cruise arrivals and further reinforcing Bali’s infrastructure to serve the growing number of sea travelers.
Boosting Marine-Based Tourism and Community Benefits
Alongside transport improvements, the expanded water taxi and fast boat networks open fresh opportunities for marine-based tourism activities across Bali. New piers and enhanced maritime connectivity are set to stimulate tourism growth by offering travelers more sustainable and picturesque travel options.
Local communities stand to gain significantly from these developments through increased tourism-driven trade, cultural exchanges, and business prospects in hospitality and related sectors. Importantly, shifting travel from congested roads to waterways contributes to Bali’s sustainability goals by lowering carbon emissions and easing traffic pressure.
Looking Ahead: A New Era for Bali’s Maritime Travel
The introduction of new water taxi routes, fast boat services, and upgraded port facilities marks a pivotal evolution in Bali’s travel infrastructure. These initiatives promise faster, more efficient transportation options for visitors, while advancing sustainable tourism practices by reducing the reliance on road traffic.
As Bali continues to invest in its maritime transport capabilities, travelers can anticipate experiencing the island’s rich coastal attractions with ease, comfort, and a smaller environmental footprint. This ambitious expansion supports Bali’s reputation as a world-class destination that innovatively blends convenience with its stunning natural environment.
With these water-based transport options becoming integral to the Bali experience, both domestic and international visitors have new reasons to explore the diverse charms of the island and its surrounding isles in a more accessible and eco-conscious way.
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