New Boat Terminal in Canggu to Connect Travelers Directly to Bali Airport

Bali, Indonesia – A major development is underway that could transform how tourists travel between Bali’s bustling airport and one of its most popular destinations. Local government officials have confirmed plans to construct a new boat terminal in the Canggu-Cemagi area. Providing a direct maritime link between I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and the west coast of Bali.

This forward-thinking infrastructure project, led by the Badung Regency Government, is part of a larger strategy. It will improve connectivity, reduce road congestion, and enhance the overall tourism experience in Bali.

Tackling Traffic Woes in Bali’s Tourist Zones

Anyone who has visited Bali’s thriving tourism hub of Canggu knows the headaches of road traffic. Especially along the congested routes between Ngurah Rai International Airport and the island’s most popular surf towns and beach clubs. What should be a one-hour drive can easily stretch into two during peak hours.

With tourism on the rise and local infrastructure under growing pressure, the Badung government is acting fast to implement alternative transport routes. The proposed Canggu-Cemagi Boat Terminal aims to directly connect tourists arriving at the airport to Canggu and nearby destinations by sea, bypassing the overcrowded roads entirely.

According to Ida Bagus Surya Suamba, the Regional Secretary of Badung Regency, the terminal is included in the government’s 2024–2026 regional development plans. It a strategic step toward coastal innovation and sustainable tourism management.

Boat Terminal: Location, Facilities & Eco Considerations

The exact location of the terminal will be between Canggu and Cemagi, two areas known for their surf breaks, laid-back beach culture, and luxury villas. This location is not only scenic but also logistically sound, bridging the gap between tourist hotspots and the southern airport region.

Though detailed designs have not been officially released, the terminal is expected to be equipped with passenger waiting areas, ticketing offices, cafés, and tourist information services. Officials are also reportedly working with marine engineers to ensure that the construction will minimize environmental impact on the coastline and coral reefs.

There are discussions around incorporating electric-powered boats or hybrid fast vessels to align with Bali’s broader push toward environmentally responsible tourism infrastructure.

Boat Terminal: Part of a Bigger Vision for Bali’s West Coast

This boat terminal is just one part of a more comprehensive plan to reshape transportation and tourism along Bali’s southwest coast. The Badung government is currently mapping out a coastal development masterplan. Including enhanced beach amenities, improved access to public spaces, and better integration of tourism services across the coastline.

Canggu, in particular, has transformed rapidly over the last decade from a sleepy surf village to one of the island’s busiest tourism districts. With an influx of digital nomads, influencers, and luxury travelers, the need for smarter infrastructure has never been more urgent.

Officials hope that this terminal will ease the growing tension between tourism growth and local quality of life. As it will be reducing traffic, lowering carbon emissions from road vehicles, and distributing visitor flows more efficiently.

Boosting Tourism and Local Business

Local businesses are also expected to benefit from the terminal. By making Canggu and Cemagi more accessible directly from the airport, travel time is reduced significantly, allowing tourists to start their holidays sooner and spend more time (and money) in local establishments.

Furthermore, the terminal is anticipated to act as a new transit hub not only for airport connections. But also for boat trips to the Nusa Islands (Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan). Expanding travel options for adventure-seeking tourists and easing pressure on the more saturated harbors like Sanur and Padang Bai.

What’s Next?

While a specific construction start date has not been announced, the inclusion of the terminal in the 2024–2026 development plan suggests work could begin within the next year. Public consultations and environmental impact assessments are likely to be the next steps, with updates expected from the Badung authorities soon.

For Bali residents, business owners, and travelers alike, this initiative marks a major leap forward in reimagining how people move across the Island of the Gods. If implemented effectively, the Canggu Boat Terminal could become a model for future marine transportation projects across Indonesia.

Read also: Bali’s Future in Focus: Governor Outlines Major Projects for 2025–2028