Fifty luxury yachts from 11 different countries have docked for the first time at the Bali Maritime Tourism Hub (BMTH), located in Benoa Harbor, Denpasar. This marks a significant milestone for BMTH, which is being positioned as a key destination for yachts and cruise ships, boosting Indonesia’s growing maritime tourism industry. The hub, part of Indonesia’s National Strategic Projects (PSN), is designed to serve as a major anchor point for maritime tourism.
“We hope BMTH can have a lasting impact on the growth of Indonesia’s tourism,” stated Joko Noerhudha, President Director of PT Pelindo Solusi Logistik (SPSL), during a press event in Denpasar, Bali. The arrival of these yachts was part of the maritime tourism program “Sail to Indonesia Goes to BMTH,” which took place from October 2 to 4, 2024.
BMTH boasts several distinct zones, one of which is a marina zone catering to the yacht community. Joko explained that in developing the hub, collaborations with various partners are underway to provide top-tier water services, yacht clubs, restaurants, and international-standard facilities.
One of the visiting tourists, Olivia from Australia, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, which not only showcased the local beauty of Bali but also allowed participants to experience its vibrant art and culture from a unique maritime perspective.
“The event was amazing. Everything was well-organized, and we had the opportunity to enjoy cultural performances, crafts, and local music. I’m definitely planning to return to BMTH next year,” Olivia shared with Antaranews.
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BMTH is indeed a pivotal project in Indonesia’s broader strategy to develop maritime tourism. As a hub for yachts and cruise ships, it is expected to significantly contribute to the country’s tourism sector, generating a positive economic impact.
Previously, Indonesia’s Minister of Transportation, Budi Karya Sumadi, emphasized the critical role BMTH will play in enhancing Indonesia’s maritime connectivity. “BMTH not only strengthens maritime and logistics networks but also boosts Indonesia’s standing as a global maritime hub,” he noted.
The “Sail to Indonesia” program does more than just promote Bali as a premier tourist destination. According to Sumadi, it also positions the island as a central hub for maritime activities, further reinforcing its appeal on the global stage.
Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Salahudin Uno echoed this sentiment, noting BMTH’s importance in promoting Indonesia’s marine tourism destinations. He highlighted that it will encourage both international and domestic travelers to explore Bali while promoting the island’s tourism offerings through digital and social media platforms.
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