Bali is preparing for a historic record: in 2026, 73 cruise liners will dock at Benoa. This is thanks to the modernization of the Bali Maritime Tourism Hub (BMTH), which will not only secure the Island of the Gods as a world cruise destination but also ensure an influx of more than 150,000 affluent tourists.
Although the official list of operators for 2026 has not yet been published, the growing interest means that vessels from the largest industry players will dock at Benoa.
Most liners follow routes through Oceania and Southeast Asia. Benoa will become one of the key stops for ships coming from Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.
Based on recent visits, including those of the Viking Venus (Viking Cruises) and Silver Moon (Silversea Cruises), experts predict the participation of global brands such as Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, or Norwegian Cruise Line. Many of these ships may sail under 'flags of convenience' (Bahamas or Panama), but their headquarters are located in the U.S., Europe, and Australia.
The primary economic impact will not come from the length of the stops but from their frequency. Stops will be short — only 8-12 hours. During this time, thousands of passengers will go ashore for quick but highly profitable day trips in Bali: visiting temples, excursions in Ubud, or relaxing on the beaches of Nusa Dua.
Local authorities state that the port of Benoa is fully prepared for such a dynamic schedule. Thanks to the BMTH project, the pier length has been extended to 500 meters, and the terminal's capacity has increased to 3,000 people per hour.
These new facilities allow for the efficient servicing of multiple vessels and the speedy completion of immigration procedures, ensuring the successful implementation of the transit hub strategy. Benoa Port General Manager Anak Agung Gede Agung Mataram declared: “In terms of facilities and services, we are ready to become a full-fledged tourist port. Interest in Benoa as the main maritime gateway to Bali grows every year.”
Sources: travel.kompas
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