BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – Indonesia’s Ministry of Transportation is preparing a water taxi project in Bali as part of efforts to reduce traffic congestion in key tourism areas, particularly in Badung Regency.
The integrated transport initiative is targeted to begin in 2026, with an initial investment estimated at IDR 1.21 trillion.
Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi said the project is designed to connect land, sea, and air transport systems, following discussions with Indonesia’s House of Representatives (DPR RI).
“The water taxi is an alternative solution to integrate transportation modes and reduce traffic congestion in Bali, especially in Badung,” he said during a working meeting on Wednesday (April 8, 2026).
The main planned route will link I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport with Canggu, one of Bali’s busiest tourism hubs.
“The water taxi will provide an efficient and environmentally friendly mobility option connecting the airport to Canggu, supporting Bali’s tourism sector,” he added.
Currently, land travel between the airport and Canggu can take between one to two hours depending on traffic conditions. With the water taxi, travel time is expected to be reduced to around 30 minutes.
“Based on field observations, land travel takes one to two hours, while the water taxi is expected to cut this to approximately 30 minutes,” Dudy explained.
The project requires significant infrastructure, including breakwater construction to ensure safety in Bali’s coastal conditions.
“The initial investment is estimated at IDR 1.21 trillion, and safety measures such as breakwaters are needed due to challenging sea conditions,” he said.
At present, the project is in the technical planning stage. State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry is preparing a Detail Engineering Design (DED) study as the basis for development.
Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2026 and is expected to continue until July 2027, with operational trials also planned within 2026.
The Ministry of Transportation, through the Directorate General of Sea Transportation, is accelerating the planning process, including finalizing design studies and preparing for implementation.
The water taxi project is expected to provide a new transport alternative for both tourists and residents, while easing congestion in Bali’s busiest corridors.