The Indonesian government has scheduled the start of construction for Bali’s water taxi project in August 2026. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce traffic congestion in the island’s busiest tourism corridors, where road networks are increasingly strained by visitor growth.
According to Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi, the water taxi system is envisioned as a sea‑based alternative that will connect several strategic hubs.
Among the planned routes are links between the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport area and popular destinations such as Canggu, providing travelers and residents with a faster and more efficient way to move across Bali.
“Construction work is planned to begin in August 2026 and run until July 2027, with the target of conducting operational trials,” Dudy said in a meeting with House of Representatives on Wednesday (April 8, 2026).
Investment and Safety Measures
Minister Dudy Purwagandhi explained that the project requires an initial investment of IDR 1.21 trillion, allocated for building essential infrastructure such as ports and safety facilities.
To safeguard operations, the design also incorporates breakwaters in areas with challenging sea conditions, including the Ngurah Rai Airport, Sekeh Beach, and Berawa Beach in Canggu.
PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero), the appointed operator, is currently conducting a pre‑design and feasibility study, which will form the foundation for the detailed engineering design (DED).
Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Sea Transportation is expediting the program by finalizing studies and technical planning to keep the project on track.
With the introduction of the water taxi, the Minister hopes to improve mobility for both tourists and residents, offering a more efficient alternative to land travel and easing the chronic traffic congestion that has long burdened Bali’s roads.
“Acceleration measures are being taken continuously, from completing the study to preparing the technical design, to ensure the timely implementation of this project,” he concluded.
Source : BeritaSatu
Feat Image : via RRI