Benoa Port – Cruise Ship Shore Excursion – Private Guided Tour

If you’re arriving in Bali via cruise, finding a way to see the island’s highlights without feeling rushed is key. This private shore excursion from Benoa Port offers a well-rounded taste of Bali’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and traditional lifestyle—all in a day. We’ve reviewed this tour based on genuine traveler feedback and the detailed itinerary to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Bali experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized nature of a private guide means you set the pace and focus on what interests you most. Second, the variety of stops ensures you get a glimpse of Bali’s scenic landscapes, spiritual sites, and local traditions. Lastly, value for money appears impressive when considering the inclusion of entrance tickets, guide services, and transportation.

One potential consideration is the timing—with a duration of 6 to 8 hours, it’s a full but doable day, though you might want to pace yourself if you prefer a more relaxed morning. This tour suits travelers looking for an authentic, flexible, and efficient overview of Bali’s key sights, especially if your cruise schedule limits your time on the island.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and vehicle allow for tailored sightseeing.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: From waterfalls to rice terraces to temples, it covers Bali’s highlights.
• Inclusion of Entrance Fees: No hidden costs at stops like Tegenungan Waterfall and Tegalalang Rice Terrace.
• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Visiting a traditional Balinese house provides insight into local life.
• Excellent Value: At $47 per person, including guide, tickets, and transportation.
• Traveler-Friendly: Pickup and drop-off at Benoa port, with options for other nearby locations.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is specifically designed for cruise passengers wanting to maximize their Bali visit. The private aspect means your guide, often an experienced local driver, will customize the experience—focusing on what matters most to you. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the longer drives between locations, which are roughly 30-40 minutes apart.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Tegenungan Waterfall

Your journey begins at Tegenungan Waterfall, a must-see natural spectacle just southeast of Ubud. Surrounded by lush greenery, this waterfall offers a lively backdrop for photos and a chance to enjoy Bali’s natural freshness. The inclusion of an entrance ticket means you won’t need to worry about additional costs. Reviewers mention the lush scenery and appreciate that this stop is about an hour long—enough to snap some photos and soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the waterfall area, and consider bringing a waterproof camera or phone cover if you want to get close to the water.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Next, you’ll visit the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terrace, famous for its scenic, green terraced paddies. This site is a Bali postcard, showcasing the traditional subak irrigation system that has shaped the landscape for centuries. Visitors can take in breathtaking views and even try the popular jungle swing—a hit among photo lovers. The 40-minute stop includes an entrance fee, so you can enjoy the view without extra hassle.

Travelers frequently mention how peaceful and photo-friendly this location is, though some note it can get crowded during peak times. The guide’s local knowledge helps navigate the best spots for photos and avoid the busiest areas if desired.

Puseh Batuan Temple

A visit to Puseh Batuan Temple offers a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual side. One of the island’s oldest Hindu temples, it features classic Balinese architecture, intricate stone carvings, and a serene atmosphere. The 40-minute stop allows you to admire the craftsmanship and maybe learn a bit about Bali’s spiritual traditions from your guide.

Tip: Dress modestly—sarongs and scarves are provided—and take your time exploring the temple grounds. The guide is helpful in explaining the significance of various structures.

Bali Traditional House Gung Aji

Experiencing Bali’s traditional lifestyle is a highlight here. Visiting the Gung Aji Traditional House provides insight into everyday Balinese life, including family customs and local architecture. Visitors can explore the family’s temple and see traditional home-building styles, adding a more personal, authentic touch to your tour.

This stop is particularly appreciated by those interested in culture. Reviewers note that the family is welcoming, and the guide’s commentary adds context to the experience.

Legong Fine Art of Batik

The tour concludes with a visit to a batik making workshop, where you’ll see artisans crafting intricate fabric designs. This is a fantastic opportunity to appreciate Bali’s craftsmanship and maybe pick up a unique souvenir. The 30-minute stop is both educational and visually appealing, with the guide explaining the process.

Practical Details

Comfort and Convenience

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at Benoa port, as well as nearby locations like Ubud, Sanur, and Nusa Dua, making it flexible depending on your cruise itinerary. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a relief after walking around in Bali’s tropical climate. Bottled water and included entrance fees add to the convenience.

Guide and Group Size

You’ll be accompanied by a professional English-speaking guide/driver who also has photography skills—helpful for capturing your memorable moments. The private nature of the tour means only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

Cost and Value

At $47 per person, the price covers entrance fees, guide services, transportation, petrol, and taxes—making it a good value considering the variety of sites visited and the personalized attention. Just keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring snacks or arrange for a quick meal during downtime.

Flexibility and Cancellation

Most travelers can participate, including those with babies (baby seats available upon request). The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

What Reviewers Say

Based on six reviews, the tour scored an impressive 4.8 out of 5. Guests praised the informative guide, with comments like “very good guide” and “very informative at each location.” One reviewer appreciated Agung’s knowledge and friendly manner, which enhanced the experience. The scenic waterfalls and rice terraces were highlighted as especially stunning, confirming their visual appeal.

Several reviewers noted the smooth logistics, thanks to the comfortable vehicle and well-organized itinerary. While the overall experience was highly positive, some mentioned that the stops are fairly brief, which works well if you’re aiming for a quick overview.

The Sum Up

This private Bali tour from Benoa Port offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and scenic views—all with the benefit of personalized attention. It’s excellent for cruise travelers who want to see Bali’s highlights efficiently without sacrificing depth or comfort. The inclusion of entrance fees and a knowledgeable guide means you can relax and enjoy each stop fully.

The tour’s focus on iconic sights like Tegenungan Waterfall and Tegalalang Rice Terrace, combined with authentic cultural visits, makes it a well-rounded introduction to Bali. It’s particularly suited for those who value a convenient, private experience that respects limited time but still delivers plenty of memorable moments.

If you’re after a cost-effective, flexible, and scenic Bali excursion, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and prepare for a day filled with Bali’s natural and cultural splendors.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?
Yes, baby seats are available on request, and the itinerary is generally suitable for all ages. Just check with the provider in advance.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or arrange your own meal during the day.

How long are each of the stops?
Stops typically range from 30 to 60 minutes, allowing enough time for sightseeing and photos without feeling rushed.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional English-speaking guide.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can potentially tailor the stops to your interests—discuss your preferences when booking.

What’s the price per person?
It costs around $47 per person, including entrance tickets, guide services, transportation, and taxes.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance tickets for the listed sites are included in the price.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Bali shore excursion offers a well-paced, authentic glimpse of the island’s highlights, perfect for those with limited time but a desire to see the real Bali.