Located on the eastern side of the southern tip of Bali, Benoa is the official Port of Entry for Bali. It is a very busy commercial harbour with many fishing boats, freighters, paragliders and day boats. It is very shallow in places and the shoal extends well into the marked channel in places, especially on the north side of the outer channel.
The harbour is restricted by the tide in parts and its entrance - on the Lombok straight - can be tricky, with 8-knot currents and sometimes standing waves if there is a swell and an opposing current and tide that sets to the south. Time things carefully when planning on entering. Currents flow south during the SE monsoon and north during the NW monsoon.
The channel is regularly dredged so depth shouldn't be an issue. It is recommended to move to Serangan Harbour after completing formalities in Benoa. Serangan is about one km north of Benoa and provides two anchorage areas. Moorings are available for short and long term stays
The pass through the reef leading into Benoa Harbour should not be negotiated at night as the lights can be confusing.
Good provisioning; some repairs possible; lots of small hardware and supply shops; excellent supermarkets; wide range of cultural, historical and natural tourism options including surfing, diving, yoga and meditation retreats. Excellent medical and dental facilities.
Construction is well under way on the new Bali Gapura Marina in Benoa Harbour, with the first dock installed in July 2025. The developers are hoping to welcome the first boats in November 2025. When completed, the marina will offer docking, mooring, repair and other services including a haul-out facility and hard standing.
Benoa Harbour entrance - 08°45"S, 115°14"E
Last updated: September 2025
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