Bali Targeted to Become Southeast Asia’s Largest Maritime Tourism Hub

​NusaBali reports that the Indonesian government is accelerating plans to develop Benoa Harbor in southern Denpasar as a Maritime Tourism Hub to secure Bali’s future role as a world-class marine tourism destination. Benoa Harbor is targeted to become one of the largest and best marine tourism hubs in Southeast Asia, with full operations commencing by late 2028.

Latest Situation & Advisory Details

​Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) recently visited Bali to ensure that the development of the Bali Marine Tourism Hub (BMTH) is proceeding according to plan. According to Yudhoyono, the project is not merely an upgraded port facility but also the development of an international-standard marina ecosystem that will enhance Bali’s global tourism competitiveness.

​”Today I visited Benoa Harbor. A project that I consider strategic for tourism development in Bali is the Bali Maritime Tourism Hub. At this location, facilities and ecosystems are being constructed and developed to support marine tourism,” said Yudhoyono.

​Benoa Port will focus on being an international marina and cruise ship terminal. The restructuring will relocate fishing activities from Benoa Port to the Pengambengan Nusantara Fisheries Port (PPN) in the Jembrana Regency. The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries will handle the relocation.

Affected Corridors & Port/Flight Status

​AHY explained that once the Benoa area is successfully reoriented into a marina, it will have a stated capacity of 188 yachts, including superyachts and megayachts. At the same time, the adjacent cruise ship terminal will be expanded to accommodate up to five large cruise ships on any single day.

​When completed, the BMTH will accommodate 180 yachts across 24.77 hectares. Plans call for berths capable of accommodating yachts up to 90 meters in length.

Available data reveal that 146,000 international tourists are now visiting the Port of Benoa annually, a number that is increasing by an average of each year36%.

Safety Restrictions & Operational Directives

BMTH will also be equipped with various supporting facilities, including an entertainment center, a shopping center, green open spaces, and modern supporting infrastructure.

​”The plan is to operate fully by the end of 2028. This development must meet sustainability standards and preserve Bali’s natural and cultural heritage. The vision is to become one of the largest and best marine tourism hubs in Southeast Asia,” AHY said.

What Travelers Should Do

Maritime and atmospheric weather patterns can affect inter-island boat crossings to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Lombok. When swell or weather warnings are active, travelers should confirm departure schedules directly with licensed harbor operators and maintain flexible itinerary timing. For live harbor advisories, wave heights, and marine condition reports across Badung Strait, refer to our Island Travel Safety Radar.