Bali, Indonesia

One of the most iconic sights is the Uluwatu Temple, a breathtaking sea temple perched on a cliff edge on the southwestern tip of the island. It's about a 45-60 minute drive from the port and is famous for its dramatic sunsets and traditional Kecak dance performances.

Another must-see is Tanah Lot, a stunning temple that sits on a rock formation in the sea. It is located on the west coast, approximately a 60-90 minute drive from Benoa Port.

For a taste of Bali's famous landscapes and culture, many visitors head to the Ubud Monkey Forest, a sanctuary for long-tailed macaques set within a temple complex. This is often combined with a visit to the nearby Tegalalang Rice Terraces to see the island's famous subak irrigation system. Both are located near Ubud, about 60-90 minutes from the port.

Ubud, considered the cultural heart of Bali, is a very popular day trip destination. Located approximately 60-90 minutes from the port, it's famous for its art galleries, craft markets, lush rice paddies, and tranquil atmosphere.

The beach resort towns of Seminyak and Kuta are also nearby, about a 30-45 minute drive from the port. These areas are known for their vibrant beach scenes, surfing, extensive shopping, and numerous restaurants. Closer to the port is Nusa Dua, an enclave of upscale resorts with pristine beaches and water sports, reachable in about 20-30 minutes.

Cruise ships in Bali dock at the Port of Benoa, located on a southern peninsula. It is not situated within walking distance of major tourist attractions or city centers. The port is approximately 20-30 minutes by car from the popular tourist areas of Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua, and about 15-20 minutes from Denpasar's city center.

Transportation is necessary to leave the port area. Taxis and pre-booked private drivers are readily available at the cruise terminal. While most larger ships dock, some smaller vessels may occasionally anchor in the bay and tender passengers ashore. The terminal itself has basic amenities, including some souvenir shops and currency exchange services.

The official currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). While some large tourist-oriented businesses might accept US Dollars, it is highly recommended to use the local currency for most transactions to get the best value.

ATMs are widely available in tourist areas, including near the port terminal, and are the easiest way to get cash. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels, resorts, and larger restaurants, but you will need cash for local markets, smaller shops, and taxi fares. It's wise to inform your bank of your travel plans before you depart.

Bali is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. The primary safety concerns are petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, which can occur in crowded tourist areas like Kuta. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.

Traffic can be very chaotic, so exercise extreme caution when crossing roads. When visiting temples, show respect by dressing modestly; cover your shoulders and knees. It is generally safe to explore independently, especially in popular tourist zones, though for longer distances or seeing multiple sights, a guided tour or a hired driver is recommended for convenience and efficiency.

Bali enjoys a tropical climate with warm weather year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 26-30°C (79-86°F). The island has two distinct seasons: a dry season from April to October and a wet season from November to March. Most cruise visits are scheduled during the dry season, which offers sunny days, lower humidity, and ideal conditions for exploring.

If your visit falls within the wet season, expect short, heavy downpours, often in the afternoon, rather than continuous rain. It is always wise to pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. A light rain jacket or umbrella is also recommended, regardless of the season.

Transportation is essential to explore Bali from the cruise port. The most common and convenient option for cruise passengers is hiring a private car with a driver for the day. This can often be arranged in advance or at the port terminal upon arrival and offers a flexible way to see multiple sights.

Metered taxis are available, with Blue Bird Group being a reputable company. Ride-sharing apps operate in Bali, but they may have restricted pick-up and drop-off zones in certain tourist areas. There is no extensive public bus or train network that is practical for tourists to use for sightseeing from the port within a limited time.

Bali is renowned for its unique arts and crafts, making it a fantastic shopping destination. Key items to look for include intricate wood carvings, handmade silver jewelry, traditional batik and ikat textiles, and paintings. The Ubud Art Market is a famous and bustling place to find a wide array of these goods.

Haggling is expected and is part of the culture in local markets, so be prepared to negotiate prices politely. For fixed-price shopping, the upscale boutiques in Seminyak or the shops within the Bali Collection shopping center in Nusa Dua offer a more conventional retail experience. Cash is often necessary for market purchases.