Cruise ships remain one of the most popular forms of travel in the tourism industry, attracting millions of holidaymakers. Industry insiders estimate that last year 37.5 million tourists bought a cruise holiday.
Such is the continuing demand that companies have to date ordered 56 new cruise ships, which are set to be delivered in 2028. While European countries grapple with overtourism and have started to try and limit the number of cruise ships, further afield efforts are being stepped up to attract more of them. One destination that is keen to increase its cruise ship business is Bali, in Indonesia.
The island is a huge hit with tourists, attracting 6.3 million visitors last year, a 20.10% increase on 2023 numbers.
Bali is also a favourite with British travellers, particularly during the long dark winter.
As many as 24,166 Brits made the long trip out to the Indonesian island in December, searching for some winter sun and respite from the snow and rain.
Indonesian officials have poured money into developing and expanding port facilities in Bali.
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Benoa, located on the tiny little blob of land at the south of Bali, which is connected to the rest of the island by a narrow isthmus.
The government has big ambitions to make Indonesia a global hub for cruise companies, with Bali at the centre of its plans.
Ni Luh Puspa, Indonesia’s deputy tourism minister, told journalists at a recent press conference: “We look forward to collaboration with global cruise ship operators to make Indonesia the home port for international cruise ships.”
She added: “The maritime tourism sector is expected to contribute significantly, one of which is through Benoa Port in Bali.”
Over the past week, Bali’s port welcomed three jumbo cruise ships at the same time.
In addition to its docks, the port has a channel and pool depth of -12 low water spring (LWS), allowing large cruise ships to dock at its pier, which spans 500 metres in length.
Last year, the port served 59 cruise liners, an increase compared to 48 cruise ships in 2023. In 2025, Benoa Port authorities hope to welcome at least 77 cruise ships.
