Construction is about to get underway on a first for Indonesia, a full-service marina offering dockage, repair, and other services. In fact, the first slips will be available in the new Benoa marina, in Bali, during the second half of this year.
The project is a joint effort between Marina Development Indonesia (MDI) and PT Pelabuhan Indonesia. MDI creates and operates marinas with a variety of other specialized companies, plus offers consultancy services. PT Pelabuhan Indonesia, meanwhile, is a state-owned entity overseeing and managing ports throughout the country. It more commonly goes by the name Pelindo. For the Benoa marina project, MDI is further collaborating with internationally experienced specialists. Among them is SF Marina, a Sweden-based developer that focuses on floating breakwaters and concrete pontoons. Its experience extends to well-known superyacht marinas like Marina Port Vell in Barcelona and Pier 66 in Fort Lauderdale. The intention is to bring those same standards to Bali.
Since Bali is an upcoming South East superyacht destination, the marina naturally will be a jumping-off point for regional cruising. Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago, with upwards of 17,000 islands, in fact. Benoa itself is just 15 minutes from the airport, too, and the local and state government want to see it become the region’s yachting hub.
Although just some of the slips will be available later this year, by mid-2026 the developers anticipate all 180 will be complete. Among those, 50 are for superyachts to 295 feet (90 meters). Additionally, a yacht club, restaurants, retail shops, and entertainment venues will be on site. Furthermore, the Benoa marina will incorporate a mobile hoist for yachts to 200 tons within a service area, plus of course a fueling station. Finally, Discover Luxury Indonesia, a luxury-travel operator, will tailor on- and off-yacht experiences for owners and guests.
Asia-Pacific Superyachts, which has long had a presence in Indonesia, will assist international yachts wishing to visit as well. “We are all looking forward to a promising future for yachting and marine tourism in Indonesia,” says Capt. Thomas Taatjes, who runs Asia-Pacific Superyachts Indonesia.
Marine tourism is a high priority for the Indonesian government. At a recent hotel and restaurant industry conference, for example, an official called attention to the efforts. “Indonesia is a prime destination for yachts, and improved facilities will stimulate related industries and attract more visitors,” says Rizki Handayani, the Ministry of Tourism’s deputy for industry and investment. Overall, she further says, “our goal is to position tourism as a leading contributor to the national economy.” Premium-experience travelers are particularly important, she adds.
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