Bali

Experience the Enchantment of Bali with Cruise1st

Bali, often dubbed the Island of the Gods, is a breathtaking treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Known for its picturesque rice terraces, vibrant temples, and pristine beaches, this Indonesian paradise is a must-visit for any traveller. Fun fact: Bali is home to over 20,000 temples, with the iconic Uluwatu Temple being a popular spot for watching incredible sunsets. A cruise to Bali allows you to soak in the island’s beauty and delve into its rich traditions—all while enjoying the luxury and convenience of a floating hotel. With options cruising from Sydney and cruising from Brisbane, what more could you ask for?

Top Cruise Lines Offering Sailings to Bali

• Holland America Line: With 11 ships in total, Holland America features 4 offering itineraries to Bali, including Noordam and Zuiderdam. Known for their classic cruising experience, these ships offer excellent dining options and unique on-board activities, making them perfect for those who appreciate a touch of luxury. Most cruises depart from Sydney or international ports like Fort Lauderdale and Singapore, giving Australian cruisers accessible options to explore Bali’s beauty!
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a fleet size of 29, Royal Caribbean has 3 ships that sail to Bali, including Ovation of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas. These vessels are packed with innovative amenities and entertainment, ensuring a fun-filled experience for every guest. Cruises commonly depart from Sydney or international ports such as Singapore and Dubai, creating an exciting gateway to Bali.
• Princess Cruises: This line has a fleet of 17, with 2 ships offering itineraries to Bali—Crown Princess and Island Princess. They are particularly known for their extensive range of onboard activities and dining choices, appealing to a wide variety of tastes. Departures frequently occur from Sydney or Brisbane, conveniently allowing cruisers to set sail from home.
• Celebrity Cruises: With 16 vessels, Celebrity Cruises has 2 ships—Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Millennium—navigating to Bali. These ships are distinguished by their upscale dining and modern design, providing a luxurious experience while at sea. Most cruises set sail from Sydney or international ports like Singapore, making them ideal for Australian travellers seeking a taste of Bali’s charm.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian has 20 ships with 2 sailing to Bali, specifically Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Spirit. Known for their freestyle cruising concept, these ships offer dining flexibility and a relaxed atmosphere. Most itineraries depart from Benoa or Singapore, giving cruisers access to stunning Balinese scenery right off the bat.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Bali

• Oceania Cruises: This upscale line has a fleet of 8, with 6 vessels offering itineraries to Bali, including Regatta and Riviera. Renowned for their culinary excellence, Oceania’s cruises also emphasize immersive travel experiences, making it ideal for sophisticated cruisers. Departures often occur from Sydney, allowing for a direct journey to Bali’s beaches and culture.
• Silversea: With a total fleet size of 12, Silversea features 4 ships sailing to Bali, including Silver Nova and Silver Muse. Guests enjoy all-inclusive luxury, including fine dining, premium beverages, and impeccable service. These cruises often depart from Melbourne or Perth (Fremantle), providing convenient access for travellers from Australia.
• Azamara Cruises: With a smaller fleet of 4, Azamara offers 2 ships—Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward—visiting Bali. Known for their destination-focused itineraries, Azamara cruises allow passengers to stay longer in port, enhancing the exploration of Balinese culture. Departures primarily occur from Sydney or international ports like Singapore, making it a perfect choice for those intrigued by Bali’s allure.
• Seabourn: With 6 ships, Seabourn offers 2—Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn—making their way to Bali. Featuring ultra-luxury experiences with personal service, these ships offer a tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere. Departures generally originate from Sydney or Perth, providing a seamless start to your Balinese adventure.

Must-Visit Harbours in Bali

• Bali (Port of Benoa): The main cruise terminal, Benoa serves as your gateway to the richness of Bali. While here, consider exploring the vibrant beaches of Kuta or the serene shores of Nusa Dua. For a taste of culture, visit the Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple perched on cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean. Don’t forget to catch a traditional Kecak dance performance during sunset—it’s a must-see!
• Celukan Bawang: Located in the northern region, Celukan Bawang is a charming port that offers access to beautiful landscapes. After disembarking, take a scenic drive to Lovina Beach, famous for its black sands and dolphin watching tours. You might also want to visit the stunning Gitgit Waterfall, nestled in the lush jungle, for a perfect afternoon adventure.
• Labuan Bajo (Komodo Island): While not purely in Bali, a cruise that incorporates Komodo Island is a fantastic extension of your Bali experience. Here, you can witness the iconic Komodo dragons up close in their natural habitat. Don’t miss a chance to snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the area—it’s a snorkelers paradise!

Popular Harbours Visited Before or After Bali

• Singapore: A bustling metropolis known for its clean streets and lush greenery, you can easily explore the Gardens by the Bay or indulge in culinary delights at hawker centres. Don’t miss the iconic Marina Bay Sands for shopping and sky-high views of the city.
• Sydney, Australia: With its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney is a must-visit before your Bali cruise. Take a ferry ride across the harbour, enjoy a day at Bondi Beach, and dive into world-class dining at local spots.
• Darwin, Australia: Known as the gateway to the tropical north, Darwin is rich in Aboriginal culture and natural beauty. Dive into the vibrant Mindil Beach Sunset Market or venture out to Litchfield National Park to experience stunning waterfalls and swimming holes.
• Cairns, Australia: Often dubbed a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns offers snorkeling and diving experiences. After enjoying the reef, stroll through the lush Cairns Esplanade, filled with cafes, shops, and stunning boardwalks.
• Komodo Island, Indonesia: As mentioned before, a visit here allows you to encounter the famous Komodo dragons and explore the unspoiled natural beauty of the island. Enjoy hiking, unparalleled snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the picturesque beaches.

When to Book Your Cruise to Bali

Bali is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit by cruise is between May to September when the weather is dry and temperatures hover around 25-35°C. January to March can be hot and humid with occasional rain, temperatures ranging from 26-31°C. Cruisers seeking a quieter visit should consider April or October when the weather remains pleasant but crowds are typically smaller.

Cost Overview for Cruises to Bali

A week-long cruise to Bali generally costs between $1,800 to $3,000 AUD, while a two-week cruise might set you back between $4,000 to $6,500 AUD. If you’re leaning toward luxury experiences, expect prices to start at around $5,000 AUD for a week and can spike to $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Beyond the cruise, local dining typically costs between $10-30 AUD per meal, while drinks range from $5-15 AUD, making it easy to explore Bali without breaking the bank!

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re contemplating a cruise to Bali, you might also want to explore these exciting alternatives:

• Adriatic Sea: Renowned for its beautiful coastlines and charming towns like Dubrovnik, the Adriatic Sea offers a wealth of culture, history, and stunning scenery just waiting to be explored.
• Caribbean: With crystal-clear waters and vibrant cultures, the Caribbean is perfect for relaxation and fun in the sun. Each island has its own distinct vibe and activities, making it an excellent choice for adventure on the sea.
• Australia and New Zealand: With diverse landscapes from the beaches of Queensland to the indigenous culture of New Zealand, this region offers a mix of adventure and relaxation for every kind of traveler.
• South Pacific: Known for its idyllic islands and vibrant marine life, the South Pacific is perfect for those looking for blissful beaches and unique cultural experiences.
• Eastern Mediterranean: This region is rich in history, offering stunning coastlines and ancient ruins, making it an excellent option for those interested in both relaxation and deep cultural exploration.

Are you ready to set sail for Bali’s enchanting shores? Cruise1st has the perfect itineraries lined up for you! Whether it’s the vibrant culture, stunning beaches, or tantalising cuisine, Bali awaits to captivate your heart and create memories that last a lifetime.