First in Indonesia! Bali to Have Water Taxis, Here is the Route Plan
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - The Ministry of Transportation is synergising efforts to accelerate the development of tourism transportation in Bali. Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi stated that the ministry has prepared strategic steps to strengthen connectivity in Bali Province through the development of water taxis and a pier at Celukan Bawang Port in Buleleng Regency.
Regarding the water taxi development plan, Dudy explained that it serves as an alternative solution to integrate land, sea, and air transportation, aiming to reduce traffic density in Bali Province, particularly in Badung Regency. Currently, PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry is preparing the Detailed Engineering Design (DED) study. Construction work is scheduled to commence in August 2026 and continue until July 2027.
“Water taxis can connect Ngurah Rai International Airport with the Canggu tourism area. Based on field observations, the land travel time from Ngurah Rai International Airport to the Canggu area is 1-2 hours. In contrast, using the water taxi, it is expected to take a maximum of 30 minutes,” Dudy said in a written statement on Saturday (9/5/2026).
This sea-based transport mode is designed to link Ngurah Rai International Airport with the Canggu region, which is known for its high mobility. The development of water taxis is a strategic step to address the increasingly complex mobility needs in Bali.
“The development of water taxi services is part of our commitment to supporting government policies in delivering an integrated transportation system. We hope this service will become an efficient, safe, and comfortable alternative for both the public and tourists,” added ASDP President Director Heru Widodo.
Support for this project also comes from the Ministry of Transportation. Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi views water taxis as a solution to connect various transport modes while easing traffic congestion, especially in Badung Regency, which is a centre of tourism activity.
In the initial stage, ASDP along with PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia has completed the feasibility study for the project. The study results indicate that the project has prospects for continuation, considering various aspects from market, technical, to social and environmental impacts.
From the study results, the Sekeh to Canggu (Berawa) route has been selected as the priority route. This route is deemed most potential to provide direct benefits to the mobility of tourists and local residents.
The route determination was conducted through a comprehensive study, including considerations of navigation safety and infrastructure readiness.
“Through this approach, the water taxi service is expected not only to be efficient but also safe and integrated with Bali’s tourism ecosystem,” said ASDP Corporate Secretary Windy Andale.
Currently, the project is entering the next stage of preparing the Detailed Engineering Design (DED) and handling permits. ASDP together with Angkasa Pura Indonesia targets to complete this process in 2026 before resubmitting to the government for further decisions.
In the future, the development of water taxis in Bali is expected not only to serve as an alternative transport solution but also as part of efforts to build a more integrated and sustainable transportation system in Indonesia’s premier tourism destination.