Getting around Bali is about to become smoother, faster, and more scenic than ever before. A series of new ocean taxi services is reshaping the way travelers move between key tourism hubs on the Island of the Gods—offering more than just a shortcut, but a whole new travel experience.

Following successful trial runs, a water taxi route connecting Benoa and Tanjung Benoa is set to be permanently introduced. The trip, which once took 30 minutes by road, now takes just 10–15 minutes by sea, depending on wave conditions.

A Game Changer for Local Connectivity
Speaking on the development, 3 Pelindo Executive Director Daru Wicaksono Julianto emphasized that this project goes beyond improving infrastructure—it’s about empowering local communities.

“We want to ensure that development not only touches the infrastructure aspect, but also brings direct benefits for the local community,” he stated.
Indeed, the Tanjung Benoa pier is expected to support five local MSMEs (UMKM) through a social and environmental responsibility program (TJSL)—integrating local economic empowerment directly into Bali’s transport evolution.

Tanjung Benoa Village Head Made Wijaya also expressed enthusiasm:

“This pier not only increases access, but also opens up new opportunities for culture and marine-based tourism.”

Part of a Larger Maritime Transformation
The new water taxi service aligns with Benoa Harbor’s transformation into the Bali Maritime Tourism Hub, a multi-million-dollar redevelopment project. The hub now boasts the capacity to host three large cruise ships at once, each up to 1,100 square meters in size, making it a vital point of entry for international maritime tourism.

Ocean Taxis Join a Growing Network
This initiative complements other sea-based services already reshaping Bali’s travel scene. GoBoat, a popular fast boat provider, has expanded routes across Bali, Nusa Penida, the Gili Islands, and even to Lombok, operating over 300 daily departures.

And the innovation doesn’t stop there.

Just last week, a new fast boat service was launched between Denpasar and Banyuwangi, East Java. This route gives domestic and international tourists a chance to explore more of Indonesia’s natural wonders, such as the world-renowned Mount Ijen, with its surreal blue flames and sulfur lake.

A Shortcut to Adventure
The Denpasar–Banyuwangi fast boat takes only 3 hours, bypassing the lengthy 4–5 hour drive to Gilimanuk before a separate ferry ride. Operated by Express Bahari, the route runs six days a week, departing:

• Banyuwangi to Denpasar: 9:00 a.m.
• Denpasar to Banyuwangi: 2:00 p.m.

What's Next for Bali's Coastal Travel?
In the coming months, travelers can expect more ocean taxis and fast boat services, plus enhanced cruise tourism infrastructure. Whether you're island hopping, beating traffic between Canggu and Uluwatu, or heading to Java for a weekend trek, Bali’s water-based transport evolution is changing the way people experience the archipelago.

From convenience to community uplift, these new marine routes are more than just shortcuts—they’re gateways to a more connected and sustainable Bali.