Pelabuhan Benoa in Denpasar, Bali, is preparing to accommodate a significant increase in cruise ship arrivals in 2026. PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Pelindo) reported that 73 luxury cruise ships have registered to call at the port next year. The increase reflects the growing capacity of the Bali Maritime Tourism Hub, or BMTH, which has strengthened Benoa’s role in international maritime tourism.
According to the General Manager of Pelabuhan Benoa, Anak Agung Gede Agung Mataram, the upgraded facilities have positioned BMTH as a more capable service hub for cruise operations. Pelindo stated that enhanced berthing areas and service improvements have contributed to the interest shown by global cruise operators.
“In terms of facilities and services, we are ready to become the headquarters of a tourism port,” he said as quoted by Antara (16/11/2025).
Capacity Expansion Drives Higher Cruise Traffic
The development of BMTH has provided added berthing space and improved port services. Pelindo has identified these upgrades as key factors contributing to the rising number of cruise ship registrations. The port recorded a consistent upward trend in cruise arrivals over the past three years, indicating a strengthening of Bali’s position within international cruise networks.
In 2023, the port logged 48 cruise visits carrying a total of 78.241 passengers. The figure increased in 2024 to 56 visits with 107.717 passengers. From January to early November 2025, Pelabuhan Benoa recorded 49 cruise arrivals bringing 96.013 passengers. Pelindo projects that the total number of cruise visits in 2025 will reach 66 by year-end.
International Routes Strengthen Benoa’s Maritime Profile
Cruise ships scheduled to call at Benoa in 2026 operate on diverse routes across the Asia Pacific region. Registered itineraries include sailings from Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and other destinations in the surrounding area. According to Pelindo, this route network reinforces the port’s strategic position within global cruise circuits.
The increasing number of registrations reflects international operators’ confidence in the port’s capabilities. BMTH is currently being positioned as a central gateway for maritime tourism, with infrastructure improvements designed to support sustained growth in cruise traffic.
Economic Contributions Noted by Pelindo
Pelindo highlighted that the arrival of luxury cruise ships contributes directly to the local tourism sector. These activities include passenger excursions, transportation services, small and medium enterprises, and other tourism-related operations.
The operator noted that the expected increase in cruise arrivals during 2026 is in line with ongoing efforts by the government and Pelindo to strengthen Bali’s maritime tourism standing.
Outlook for 2026
With 73 luxury cruise ships already registered for 2026, Pelabuhan Benoa is expected to continue growing as a regional maritime tourism hub.
The developments under BMTH and the steady rise in passenger numbers indicate that Bali is becoming increasingly prominent within international cruise travel. Pelindo confirmed that preparations will continue throughout the year to ensure port readiness and to support the expected expansion of cruise operations.
