Bali is often a paradise for tourists, but anyone who’s visited recently can tell you about the growing frustration of traffic congestion. It seems like every trip can feel like a mini-adventure, dodging the honking horns and weaving through stalls. But guess what? Relief is around the corner! Leaders in Bali are stepping up to create some innovative solutions to tackle this issue.

A Vision for Better Transportation in Bali

In July 2024, in a bold move that still puts a smile on my face, I Nyoman Giri Prasta, the Regent of Badung (and now the Deputy Governor of Bali), unveiled plans for a new ‘sea toll road.’ This newly approved ocean taxi route is designed to connect the trendy area of Canggu with the Bukit Peninsula, ensuring that tropical wanderers can travel seamlessly between destinations. And it’s all set to launch in early 2025!

What Exactly Is This ‘Sea Toll Road’?

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “A toll road on the sea? How does that work?” Fear not! This project is not your traditional road. Instead, it will operate as an ocean taxi route. The idea is to ferry passengers over the gorgeous turquoise waters, starting from Canggu’s Berawa Beach and extending all the way to Nusa Dua, and even connecting to the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. Imagine the views as you glide across the waves instead of being stuck in traffic!

But there’s more to it. This initiative aligns beautifully with the new Bali Urban Railway Network (think MRT and LRT) which promises to further enhance public transportation and ease congestion on Bali’s roadways.

Insights from Canggu: The Future of Travel

On December 13, during a chat from Berawa, Regent Prasta emphasized that “God willing, between January or February, we will build a sea toll road.” His vision is to facilitate travel along the coastline, allowing tourists to enjoy the stunning scenery without relying on the congested main roads.

Importantly, there will be no need for new ports or harbors in Berawa, which is great news for those who love the local vibe. Regent Prasta mentioned that there will be a ‘ship transit point’ designed in cooperation with the Bali-Penida River Basin Office, with a focus on creating a convenient stopover from the airport to Canggu and Nusa Dua.

What Can Tourists Expect?

Once this ocean taxi service is up and running, tourists will experience a far more pleasant journey. Regent Prasta outlined that a boat will be stationed at the airport to whisk guests directly to their hotels. “The current priority is from the airport to Canggu and to Nusa Dua,” he noted.

He teased that the “specific type of ship will be announced later,” possibly in collaboration with a third party to ensure top-notch service. This is comparable to existing sea taxi services like GoBoat, which already operates routes between Canggu, Jimbaran, and Uluwatu with impressive efficiency.

Practical Advice for Tourists

If you’re planning a visit during the holiday season, expect the fast boats to be in high demand. Book your tickets well in advance to secure your spot. If your plans are still a bit fuzzy, GoBoat offers flexible ticket options so you can adapt as needed.

For those struggling to find tickets, try looking for later-afternoon crossings. The boats tend to be less busy later in the day compared to the morning rush of day-trippers. A little insider tip: don’t forget to explore different ports in Bali! While Sanur is the biggest, you can also find convenient departures from Padangbai and Serangan, which can save you time and enhance your experience.

With exciting changes on the horizon, Bali is ready to provide travelers with a smoother, more scenic journey. So grab your sunglasses, and get ready for an unforgettable trip! 🌊🌴