Bali Hai Cruise Goes International

(3/7/2011)

Delays in the operation of the Tanah Ampo Cruise Terminal in East Bali have forced many large cruise ships to divert to Bali's southernmost port of Benoa. Because the port of Benoa is too small for many large cruise vessels to enter into the port the large passenger liners are dropping anchor just outside the port's entrance.

In order to help passengers travel the short distance from the cruise ship's anchorage to the shore, Bali's popular Bali Hai II catamaran day-cruise vessel has been pressed into service to ferry these passengers. Following the success of serving Carnival Cruises in 2010, Bali Hai Cruises is now supplying tender services to Royal Caribbean Cruises

Due to continuing problems at the Tanah Ampo Port and last-minute changes in cruise itinerary, the latest request for assistance from Royal Caribbean Cruises was received on very short notice. Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines made three Bali visits in February, with two calls by Legend of the Seas and a third call by Rhapsody of the Seas. In all, over 4,800 cruise passengers were transferred on board the Bali Hai II between these ships and Bali's southern shore.

Despite the quick decision to use Benoa, the cruise companies did not relax their exacting safety standards. Fortunately, over 20 years of experience in the marine operations and strict conformance with international marine certification put Bali Hai in good stead to meet the tough standards of the international cruise operators.

Carnival Cruises has confirmed a total 14 calls to Benoa Harbor this year and Bali Hai Cruises has been asked to supply ship-to-shore tendering services.

Bali Hai Cruise, director of sales, Pande Ardika, said: "Whilst these charters do have an impact on our normal day to day operations, we believe it is important for Bali Hai Cruises to support Bali Tourism and the port of Benoa - as these vessels are carrying close to 2,000 passengers with many being first time visitors."

[Cruise Ship Handling by Bali Discovery].