The capital of Bali is focusing on marine tourism. In 2025, the aim is not just to attract more tourists than usual but also to offer them new types of leisure activities.
Representatives of the tourism industry reached an agreement on this right aboard a traditional Pinisi ship in Benoa Port. At the meeting, organized by the Denpasar Department of Tourism, they discussed how to make marine leisure modern, interesting, and eco-friendly. The choice of location was no coincidence, as the Pinisi is not just a ship; it's part of Indonesia's history. These ships were traditionally built without engines and were used by local traders at sea. Now, one of these ships takes tourists for sunset tours in Benoa Bay and is popular not only with foreigners but also with locals.
According to the head of the Denpasar Department of Tourism, Ni Luh Putu Riyastiti, the sea is not only a place for leisure but also a source of life for coastal villages. Therefore, tourism here should be 'correct' — harmless to nature and beneficial for locals.
"It's important not just to avoid harming nature, but to help restore it. Tourism should heal, not destroy," said Riyastiti.
Currently, tourists in Denpasar can enjoy activities like kitesurfing, windsurfing, regular surfing, sea cruises, snorkeling, and fishing. You can also release turtles into the sea, go diving or paddle surfing. These activities are becoming increasingly popular among locals and tourists.
However, there are serious issues in this sector that need addressing. Industry representatives at the meeting discussed the lack of standard regulations for guides and price wars that are harming the quality of services. They also talked about illegal companies operating on the coast without certified surfing instructors.
Based on the feedback and suggestions, the meeting participants proposed an action plan for 2025:
- Continue to develop cruises, diving, snorkeling, and fishing;
- Train and certify guides and instructors for marine tourism;
- Combat illegal businesses;
- Improve infrastructure without harming the ecosystem;
- Involve locals in tourism projects.
The last point is particularly important, according to Ketut Ena Partha, one representative of the local community. He mentioned that 90% of the marine tourism business is owned by foreigners.
"We, the locals, need more opportunities. We need to create zones for marine tourism, establish clear rules, and develop separate standards for diving guides," he said, urging consideration of the interests of those living by the sea.
The participants on the ship agree that if the government, business, and locals join forces, they can create a vibrant and interesting seaside space where it's pleasant to relax, where nature is preserved, and where tourism profits remain within the community.
A representative of the city's tourism council, Ida Bagus Gede Sidharta Putra, noted that the subject of marine tourism is currently very relevant since Indonesia is an island nation, and Denpasar has a long coastline and a rich coastal culture.
The Denpasar authorities expect to welcome up to 2.1 million tourists in 2025. Last year, there were 1.9 million, so the target is quite realistic. They plan to increase the area's popularity through social media, online advertising, partnerships with bloggers, and tourism companies.
The cultural events and festivals planned for 2025 should also help attract more visitors to Bali's capital than usual. One of the year's highlights is the Arts Festival, held from mid-June to mid-July. It's famous for its grand opening parade, where thousands of dancers and performers from the island and other regions of Indonesia participate. The festival's central venue is the Bali Art Center (Taman Werdhi Budaya), located in the heart of Denpasar.
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