Bali Benoa Shore Excursion for Cruise’s Passenger – All Inclusive

When your cruise ship docks at Benoa port, the last thing you want is to spend hours waiting in long lines or weathering a crowded tour bus. That’s why a private, all-inclusive Bali shore excursion sounds like a dream—delivering the island’s highlights with comfort, flexibility, and local insight. Although we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of what you can expect, making it a fantastic option for those short on time but eager to see Bali’s essence.

What we love about this tour? First, the well-paced itinerary hits a perfect balance of iconic sights and authentic experiences. Second, the private transportation and English-speaking driver promise a relaxed, personalized journey—no pressure, no rushing. Third, the value for money seems solid, especially with included tickets, lunch, and the flexibility to start early.

One thing to consider: Since the tour wraps up in about 7 to 8 hours, starting early (around 7:30 am) is advisable if you want to maximize sightseeing. Late starts might mean missing out on some stops, which is a small trade-off for the convenience and comfort offered. This tour suits cruise passengers who want to make the most of their limited time ashore without sacrificing quality or local flavor.

Key Points

• Private and flexible transportation provides comfort and the ability to customize your experience.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers cultural, natural, and artisan highlights, offering a well-rounded taste of Bali.
• Included tickets and lunch add great value, making the trip more affordable and hassle-free.
• Highly rated guides (like Gusti and Ketut) contribute to a friendly, safe experience.
• Time-efficient planning ensures you see Bali’s top sights without feeling rushed.
• Authentic local experiences through visits to temples, waterfalls, rice terraces, and art villages.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pick-up at Benoa Harbour

Your adventure begins right at the dock, where your driver will be waiting with a sign bearing your name. This simple, stress-free start sets the tone for a smooth day. Expect about 15 minutes here, just enough time for a quick introduction before heading inland. The tour includes all admission fees, so no surprise costs should catch you off guard.

Puseh Batuan Temple

Your first stop is Batuan Temple, the oldest on Bali. This site offers an authentic glimpse into Balinese spirituality and architecture. The temple’s black coconut fiber roof and intricate ornaments reflect traditional design, making it a photogenic spot. Reviewers mention feeling impressed by the craftsmanship and history, with one noting that it’s a rare chance to see an ancient temple still actively used for ceremonies.

Tegenungan Waterfall

Next, you’ll visit Tegenungan Waterfall, a favorite for its lush surroundings and fun water activities. It’s a great spot to cool off, snap some pictures, or just relax in nature. Located near Ubud, the waterfall offers enough space for swimming or simply enjoying the sound of cascading water. One reviewer called it “a beautiful place to take a picture or just having fun,” emphasizing how accessible and scenic it is.

Uma Pakel Agro Tourism

Imagine wandering through vibrant plantations—this is Uma Pakel Agro Tourism. Here, you’ll see tropical crops like coffee, pineapple, snake fruit (salak), cacao, and even Balinese potatoes. It’s a chance to observe traditional farming practices and sample fresh produce. Several reviews praise the experience as a “nice view of local farming,” and appreciation for the opportunity to learn about Bali’s agricultural side.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

No visit to Bali is complete without visiting Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Famous for their stunning landscape and traditional irrigation system (subak), these terraces are a photographer’s paradise. You’ll have about an hour here to soak in the views, walk along the terraces, and appreciate Bali’s rice farming heritage. Reviewers love the breathtaking vistas and the chance to see Bali’s lush, green countryside up close.

Lunch with a View

A highlight is the lunch at a restaurant overlooking Tegalalang Rice Terrace. The Indonesian menu offers hearty, flavorful fare amid panoramic scenery. Having a meal with such a view elevates the experience and provides a relaxing break before more sightseeing. Many reviewers mention the generous portions and tasty food, making it excellent value.

Celuk Village

Your journey continues to Celuk Village, renowned for its gold and silver jewelry craftsmanship. It’s fascinating to watch artisans at work, shaping jewelry by hand. This stop appeals to those interested in Bali’s artisan traditions, with some reviewers mentioning that it’s a good place to buy souvenirs directly from the creators, often at better prices than elsewhere.

Legong Batik Art

Finally, you’ll visit Legong Batik, where local artisans demonstrate traditional batik weaving and fabric dyeing. It’s an opportunity to appreciate Bali’s textile arts and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir. The reviews note the craftsmanship involved and the opportunity to see the process firsthand, enriching your understanding of Bali’s artistic heritage.

Transportation and Timing

This tour offers private or shared transport, with a maximum of 12 people in a minibus. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during travel between stops. Travelers report that the drivers are experienced, friendly, and safe—something that stood out in reviews praising Gusti and Ketut for their professionalism and patience.

Starting early—around 7:30 am—maximizes your sightseeing window. The itinerary is carefully timed, with about an hour at each major stop, plus buffer time for travel and photo opportunities. Reviewers appreciated the smooth flow and the flexibility to customize or skip certain stops if needed.

Cost and Value

At $50 per person, this tour provides excellent value considering what’s included: all entrance fees, lunch, private transport, and a knowledgeable driver. When compared to the cost of individual tickets and meals, the package feels like a smart deal for short-stay visitors who want a well-rounded overview without breaking the bank.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

Based on reviews, the guides make a difference—friendly, attentive, and eager to share local insights. Many guests felt safe and well-looked-after, even in busy spots like rice terraces and temples. One guest said, “Feeling safe on a road with experienced and kind driver Gusti,” which underscores the importance of choosing a reputable operator.

To make the most of this trip, travelers should start early. The tour is designed to fit into a cruise schedule, so being ready for pick-up around 7:30 am ensures you cover all stops comfortably. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and prepare for a mix of cultural, natural, and artisan stops.

Considerations

While the tour is comprehensive, it’s worth noting that some stops might be crowded, especially Tegalalang Rice Terrace. However, this is part of the charm and a reflection of Bali’s popularity. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, skipping a stop or requesting a shorter visit is possible with the driver’s assistance.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This Bali shore excursion suits cruise travelers who want to see the island’s highlights efficiently without sacrificing comfort. It’s perfect for those interested in Balinese culture, natural beauty, and artisan crafts, all wrapped into a single day. The inclusion of lunch, entrance fees, and private transport makes it a convenient, stress-free choice for busy schedules.

Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic sights and cultural experiences will find this tour appealing. If you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic introduction to Bali, this tour strikes a good balance of value, comfort, and exposure to the island’s best.

FAQs

How early should I start the tour? Starting between 7:30 am and 9:00 am is ideal, especially if you want to maximize sightseeing time during your limited port hours.

What is included in the cost? The tour fee covers all entrance tickets, a traditional Indonesian lunch overlooking the rice terraces, private or shared transport, and an English-speaking driver.

Can I customize the stops? Since it’s a private or sharing tour, you might be able to request modifications, but the standard itinerary is designed to cover Bali’s highlights efficiently.

How long is the tour? Expect about 7 to 8 hours from pick-up at Benoa port to return, allowing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is the transportation comfortable? Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned, and the drivers are experienced and friendly, according to reviews.

Are there options for private or shared tours? Both are available; smaller groups (up to 6 in a van) for a more intimate experience, or larger groups (up to 12) for a more social vibe.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are recommended. Also, bring some cash for personal expenses not included in the tour.

Final Thoughts

This Bali Benoa shore excursion offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience some of the island’s most famous sights, all while enjoying the comfort of private transport and the guidance of friendly local drivers. It’s a well-rounded introduction that balances cultural, natural, and artisanal experiences, making it ideal for cruise travelers who don’t want to miss out but are constrained by time.

The included tickets, delicious lunch, and flexible schedule make this a good-value option, especially for those eager to see Bali’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transportation or entrance fees. The positive reviews reinforce that attentive guides and thoughtfully curated stops help travelers feel safe and satisfied.

If you’re seeking an authentic, hassle-free, and scenic introduction to Bali during your cruise stop, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s designed to leave you with a memorable impression of Bali’s beauty, warmth, and craftsmanship—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

In summary, for cruise passengers craving a well-organized, authentic taste of Bali with the convenience of all-inclusiveness, this tour checks all boxes. It’s best suited for those who want to enjoy Bali’s most famous sights comfortably and efficiently, leaving with a smile and plenty of photos to remember it by.