Bali’s Benoa Port has marked a historic milestone by successfully docking three international cruise ships simultaneously on Friday, February 21, 2025. This operational achievement solidifies Benoa Port’s status as a key hub for cruise tourism in Indonesia and strengthens its position as a premier home port in the region.

A Landmark Moment for Benoa Port

The three docked cruise ships were Silver Nova (244 meters, 1,185 passengers and crew), Queen Elizabeth (293 meters, 2,927 passengers and crew), and Viking Sky (228 meters, 1,311 passengers and crew). This event underscores Benoa Port’s increasing prominence in the global cruise industry, demonstrating its capacity to accommodate large-scale maritime tourism operations.

Johannes Wahyu, Acting Executive Director of Pelindo Regional 3, emphasized the significance of this milestone. “The successful docking of three cruise ships at once is a historic moment for Benoa Port. This achievement highlights its growing reputation as a premier international cruise destination and a potential home port for future cruise operations,” he stated.

Boosting Bali’s Economy and Tourism Sector

The arrival of these cruise ships brings substantial economic benefits to Bali’s tourism industry. Thousands of passengers and crew members disembarked to explore Bali’s cultural heritage, shop for local crafts, and savor Balinese cuisine. This influx of tourists enhances Bali’s attractiveness as a travel destination while stimulating local businesses, including hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors.

Moreover, Wahyu revealed plans to expand Benoa Port’s cruise terminal infrastructure. Currently, the port’s eastern dock spans 500 meters, but future developments aim to extend the cruise dock to 1,100 meters. This expansion will enable Benoa Port to accommodate up to four cruise ships simultaneously, further solidifying its role as a strategic hub for maritime tourism in Southeast Asia.

Future Projections for Benoa Port

In 2024, Pelindo Regional 3 recorded 134 cruise calls, with projections increasing to 149 in 2025. Benoa Port alone accounted for 56 cruise ship visits last year, reinforcing its growing importance in Indonesia’s tourism and maritime industries.

Indonesia’s Minister of State-Owned Enterprises, Erick Thohir, acknowledged the historic significance of this event. “This achievement strengthens Benoa Port’s position as a leading international cruise destination and marks a crucial step in its journey toward becoming Indonesia’s primary home port for cruise tourism,” he remarked.

Thohir also highlighted the broader economic impact of cruise tourism in Bali. “The arrival of cruise ships directly benefits hotels, restaurants, transport services, and local artisans. Additionally, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) experience increased demand for local products, further supporting Bali’s economic ecosystem.”

A Strategic Vision for Benoa Port

With the continued enhancement of its infrastructure and services, Benoa Port is poised to attract even more cruise ships in the coming years. The government and Pelindo Regional 3 remain committed to transforming the port into a world-class cruise hub, ensuring that Bali remains a top destination for international travelers.

The successful simultaneous docking of three cruise ships at Benoa Port not only sets a new operational benchmark but also reinforces Indonesia’s position as a leading player in the global cruise tourism industry. With its ongoing developments and increasing cruise arrivals, Benoa Port is well on its way to becoming a premier home port tourism center in Southeast Asia.

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