State-owned port company PT Pelindo has announced a groundbreaking marina tourism center development project at the Bali Maritime Tourism Hub (BMTH) in Benoa Port. This initiative supports Indonesia's vision of becoming a key player in the global maritime industry.

"The new marina in Bali realizes our vision to become a key player in the global maritime industry, combining the experience of comfort and quality service along with safe and world-class infrastructure," said Pelindo President Director Arif Suhartono in a statement released on Saturday.

The planned marina facility is designed to feature 180 docks, capable of accommodating more than 50 superyachts measuring up to 90 meters in length. Suhartono indicated that the marina is expected to be operational by the second half of 2025 and will likely stimulate the development of butterfly route cruise routes linking major ports, including Tanjung Emas, Tanjung Perak, Gilimas, Labuan Bajo, and Raja Ampat.

To promote the BMTH, Pelindo hosted the "Sail to Indonesia Goes to BMTH" event from October 2–4, 2024. This event attracted over 50 yachters from various countries, participating in the Sail to Indonesia Rally.

Joko Noerhudha, President Director of Pelindo's sub-holding SPSL, expressed hope that this event would foster continuity and establish BMTH as a hub for Indonesian maritime tourism. "The development of BMTH is expected to strengthen Indonesia's position as a major destination for maritime tourism, in line with the success of the event which attracted the attention of yachters and the public," he stated.

Noerhudha also emphasized that the event served as an opportunity to showcase the rich culture and potential of Indonesia's maritime tourism sector.

Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi praised the event during the welcoming ceremony, voicing support for Pelindo's initiatives aimed at enhancing national maritime and logistics connectivity.

Echoing Minister Sumadi's sentiments, Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno highlighted the opportunity for Bali to promote its maritime tourism destinations to both foreign and domestic tourists. "Bali will have an important opportunity to promote maritime tourism destinations in Indonesia and encourage visits from tourists," he remarked.

With the development of the marina and the successful hosting of international yachting events, Indonesia is poised to elevate its status as a leading maritime tourism destination in the region.