In a continued effort to enhance the tourist experience and address the increasingly pressing traffic problem, Bali Governor Wayan Koster has announced a bold plan to launch a “water taxi” service. The project is expected to create a breakthrough in the island’s transportation system, especially on the vital route connecting I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport with Nusa Dua, one of Bali’s top tourist destinations in Badung Regency.
According to Mr. Koster, the introduction of "water taxi" is not only a simple transportation solution but also a harmonious combination of modernity and tradition. To ensure the feasibility and effectiveness of the project, the Bali government has conducted a trial using jukung, a traditional boat typical of the island. The jukung, with its unique design and flexible mobility, have been put into operation on potential waterways, to collect data and evaluate actual transportation capacity.
Bali Island has become a dream tourist destination for millions of tourists.
Initial test results have shown positive signs. Accordingly, the travel time by jukung from I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport to Uluwatu Temple in Nusa Dua is around 35-40 minutes, an impressive figure compared to the current road traffic congestion. Meanwhile, the use of high-speed motorboats helps shorten the travel time to 25-30 minutes, opening up diverse travel options and saving time for tourists.
Not stopping at "water taxi", the Bali government is also actively researching and considering other transportation solutions to enhance connectivity between key tourist destinations on the island. Diversifying transportation methods not only helps reduce pressure on the road traffic system but also provides tourists with rich and memorable travel experiences.
The "water taxi" service will be deployed on the route connecting I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport with the Nusa Dua area in Badung Regency.
This ambitious project promises to bring a new look to Bali's transportation system, not only reducing pressure on the already overloaded roads but also opening up a new and attractive means of transportation for tourists. With its intricate network of canals and rivers, Bali has a huge potential for developing water transportation. Modern, environmentally friendly "water taxis" will weave through the green canals, taking tourists to the island's famous destinations, from ancient temples, pristine beaches to vibrant local markets.
This is an opportunity to provide a new mode of transportation for tourists.
In addition to reducing traffic congestion, the "water taxi" service also brings other great benefits. It contributes to environmental protection by reducing emissions from road vehicles, while creating unique and memorable travel experiences for visitors. Sitting on the "water taxi", visitors will have the opportunity to admire the beauty of Bali from a completely new perspective, seeing the green rice fields, traditional houses with bright red tile roofs and the friendly, hospitable Balinese people.
The use of jukung, a traditional Balinese boat, is being tested to measure the efficiency of water transport.
With such great potential, the "water taxi" service promises to become a new symbol of Bali tourism, a smart and sustainable transportation solution, contributing to improving the quality of life of local people and bringing great experiences to tourists from all over the world.
In addition to "water taxis", the government is also considering other transport solutions to enhance connectivity between major tourist destinations.
Famous around the world for its breathtaking natural landscapes, beautiful pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage, Bali has become a dream tourist destination for millions of visitors. In 2024, the "Island of the Gods" had the honor of welcoming about 6.3 million international visitors, an impressive number that proves the irresistible attraction of this island.
With the successes achieved, Bali continuously sets higher goals to affirm its position on the world tourism map. This year, this beautiful island aims to welcome 6.5 million international visitors, an ambitious number but completely feasible with Bali's existing potential.
The attraction of Bali comes from the harmonious combination of natural beauty and unique cultural values. Visitors coming here not only immerse themselves in the clear blue sea, enjoy the long stretches of white sand but also have the opportunity to explore ancient temples, green rice fields and long-standing traditional craft villages.
