Benoa port has a two-mile long access channel and offers two berths. It is located close to popular tourist haunts like Nusa Dua, Sanur, Kuta and Denpasar. Another cruise port in Bali is Celukan Bawang in the island's north.
Improvement of Benoa's approach channel will ease operational challenges currently being faced by cruise operators.
An update is based on results of a manoeuvring study done in Brisbane last October by P&O Australia together with representatives of Pelindo III (Indonesia’s state-owned ports services) and the Indonesian Hydrographic Bureau.
At a recent seminar held by the Ministry of Tourism, participants were told that Benoa should be ready to accommodate larger cruise ships, after the channels are dredged. 'Marine chart and hydrographic data are ready [for cruise lines wanting to use Benoa] and can be procured through the hydrographic office and ordered online,' Dr Aji Sularso, a member of acceleration team for Marine Tourism from Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism told SCN.
'We have an agreement with P&O Cruises Australia that the first call of 55,819gt Pacific Eden in April this year will become a pilot project of Benoa's readiness,' he remarked.
Dr Aji also reported that port tariffs involving towage and pilotage are being reviewed.
The Government of Indonesia, through its Ministry of Tourism, intends to give 'high priority to accommodate visits by cruise vessels'.
The authorities also intend simplifying CIQ regulations and policy. The government of Indonesia will establish a national committee to monitor and supervise cruise ship visits for efficiency and making them hassle free, he said.
Indonesian representatives will be attending Seatrade Cruise Global and holding an open forum for cruise operators on the Indonesia pavilion on March 13 between 2.30-5.30pm to provide latest information and address any operational questions they may have.
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