Find and book ferry tickets to and from Benoa Harbour
An iconic view of Benoa Harbour
Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.
Reaching Benoa Harbour
Benoa Harbour is easily accessible from most areas in southern Bali, with the journey from Kuta or Seminyak taking approximately 30-40 minutes by car or taxi. From Ubud, expect a scenic 60-90 minute drive through Bali's lush landscapes. The harbor is well-serviced by local transport options, including ride-sharing services and traditional bemos (local minivans). If arriving from Ngurah Rai International Airport, the harbor is just a 25-minute drive away. For those with rental cars, ample parking is available at the port, though arriving early during peak season is recommended as spaces fill quickly.
Benoa Harbour: Bali's Gateway to Island Adventures
Nestled on the southeastern coast of Bali, Benoa Harbour serves as the island's main maritime gateway, blending bustling port activities with tropical charm. This vibrant harbor sits on a natural peninsula, surrounded by mangrove forests and the crystal-clear waters of the Bali Sea. As one of Indonesia's key ferry hubs, Benoa connects travelers to some of the country's most breathtaking islands while offering its own unique slice of Balinese culture just steps from the docks.
When to Experience Benoa at Its Best
Bali enjoys a tropical climate year-round, making Benoa Harbour accessible in any season, though conditions vary significantly. The dry season (April to October) offers the most reliable weather for ferry travel, with calm seas and clear skies perfect for island hopping. May, June, and September provide an ideal balance of excellent weather with fewer tourists compared to the July-August peak. The wet season (November to March) brings occasional heavy downpours and rougher seas, sometimes affecting ferry schedules, though prices are lower and attractions less crowded. Ferry services operate year-round but with increased frequency during the dry months to accommodate higher demand.
Island Destinations from Benoa's Shores
Benoa Harbour serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring Indonesia's island treasures. The Gili Islands are among the most popular destinations, with fast boats making the journey in approximately 2.5 hours, delivering travelers to white-sand beaches and world-class snorkeling spots. Nusa Penida, with its dramatic cliffs and untamed beauty, is just a 45-minute ferry ride away, offering a perfect day trip or overnight adventure. Lombok, Bali's more rugged neighbor, can be reached in about 1.5 hours by fast boat, rewarding visitors with pristine beaches and the towering Mount Rinjani. The harbor also offers seasonal routes to more remote destinations like Sumbawa and Flores, making Benoa an ideal base for extended island-hopping expeditions.
Experiences to Savor Around Benoa
The area surrounding Benoa Harbour offers plenty to explore before or after your ferry journey. Tanjung Benoa beach stretches north of the harbor, famous for its water sports including parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. Seafood enthusiasts shouldn't miss the local restaurants serving fresh catches prepared with traditional Balinese spices – try the grilled snapper with sambal matah for an authentic taste. The nearby Bali Collection in Nusa Dua offers upscale shopping and dining options just 10 minutes from the port. Nature lovers can explore the adjacent mangrove forest on guided eco-tours, where you'll spot native birds and learn about this crucial coastal ecosystem. For cultural immersion, visit the ornate Pura Sakenan temple on nearby Serangan Island, accessible via a short bridge from the mainland.
Surprising Secrets of Benoa Harbour
Benoa Harbour sits on reclaimed land that was once a series of small islands, connected through careful engineering to create Bali's premier port. The harbor played a crucial role during World War II as a strategic Dutch naval base before falling to Japanese forces in 1942. Local fishermen still practice traditional blessing ceremonies at the harbor before major voyages, continuing maritime traditions that date back centuries. The waters around Benoa are home to an artificial reef program where decommissioned ships have been sunk to create new marine habitats, now teeming with colorful fish and coral formations.
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