Bali Benoa Shore Excursion for Cruise Passenger All Inclusive

Travelers docking at Benoa Port often seek a way to see the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning each stop. This all-inclusive shore excursion offers a structured day packed with cultural, natural, and artistic experiences. It promises convenience, a friendly guide, and a taste of Bali’s diverse attractions—all for around $47 per person.

What initially catches the eye about this tour are the transportation arrangements, the variety of stops, and the included meals and entrance fees. However, as some reviews suggest, it’s important to weigh the value of the experience against its potential downsides, especially regarding pace and guide communication. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a guided approach, enjoy seeing multiple sights in one day, and don’t mind a busy schedule.

Good To Know

• Smooth logistics: Private transportation from the port with air-conditioning makes for a comfortable day.
• Diverse stops: From temples and waterfalls to rice terraces and artisan villages, the itinerary covers a broad spectrum.
• All-inclusive: Entrance fees and lunch are included, removing some planning stress.
• Group size flexibility: Options for small or larger groups (up to 12 people) are available.
• Potential time crunch: The busy schedule and traffic might limit time at each stop.
• Variable guide experience: Some travelers reported language barriers and late pickups, affecting overall impressions.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup & Transfer

Your day begins with a straightforward pickup at Benoa port, where your driver will hold a sign with your name. Expect a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle—either a compact car for small groups or a van for larger parties. This setup aims to make the transfer smooth, but keep in mind that traffic in Bali can be unpredictable, sometimes extending travel times.

Benoa Harbour

The first stop is just a 15-minute visit at Benoa Harbour, mainly for a quick introduction and to ensure everyone’s accounted for. Since the admission is included, you can get a glimpse of the port area before heading inland.

Puseh Batuan Temple

Next, the tour visits what’s claimed to be Bali’s oldest temple, Puseh Batuan. Known for its intricate Balinese ornaments and distinct black coconut fiber roof, this site offers a chance to appreciate traditional architecture and spiritual ambiance. Expect about an hour here, with some time to explore and perhaps take photos. The inclusion of an entrance ticket makes it an easy cultural stop, though some visitors noted that the experience was more about viewing rather than in-depth learning.

Tegenungan Waterfall

A highlight for many—Tegenungan Waterfall near Ubud. The waterfall’s scenic setting invites visitors to snap photos or even take a quick dip. It’s a popular photo spot, and you’ll likely enjoy the lush surroundings. Allow an hour for this stop to capture a few shots, and if you’re feeling energetic, a quick walk around the area.

Uma Pakel Agro Tourism

This stop offers a taste of Bali’s tropical produce, with an opportunity to see local plantations. From coffee and pineapple to salak (Balinese snake fruit) and durian, it’s a great place to learn about local farming traditions. The experience might include tasting sessions, making it more than just a sightseeing stop. Expect about an hour here, and be mindful that some reviews mention this as a good photo op rather than a deep-dive cultural experience.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Famous for its stunning undulating rice paddies and traditional irrigation system (subak), the Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a must-see for many visitors. The outlook offers sweeping views that are perfect for photos. The one-hour time frame allows for a leisurely walk, though crowds can be thick during peak hours. The views here are often praised, but some travelers feel it’s become a bit touristy.

Ceking Rice Terrace & Lunch

Just a minute away, the Ceking Rice Terrace is included with a quick stop for a lunch featuring Indonesian cuisine with a view of the rice paddies. This is a relaxing way to refuel and enjoy the scenery simultaneously. The short duration means you won’t spend much time here, but it’s a pleasant break.

Art & Craft Villages

The tour then visits Celuk Village for jewelry shopping and watching goldsmiths at work, and Legong Fine Art of Batik for a hands-on look at traditional cloth weaving and batik collection. These stops are about appreciating Bali’s artisan culture, with around an hour at each location. Be prepared for the possibility of sales pitches, but also for the chance to see skilled craftsmanship firsthand.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The transportation setup aims for efficiency and comfort. The small groups (up to 6) or larger ones (up to 12) are ideal for those who prefer a personalized experience, though some reviews warn about delays and driver communication issues. A review shared that the driver was late and struggled with English, which affected the overall flow. On the plus side, the air-conditioned vehicle makes a long day more bearable, particularly in Bali’s tropical heat.

Value and Pricing

At approximately $47 per person, the tour provides a package that includes transportation, entrance fees, bottled water, and lunch. This makes it a convenient option, especially for travelers who want to see a lot without planning each stop individually. For some, the inclusion of meals and entrance tickets adds good value, sparing you extra costs and organizational headaches.

However, the limited time at each stop and the potential for traffic delays mean you might not get as much out of each location as you’d hope. The experience is more about ticking sights off a list than immersing deeply in any one place.

Authenticity and Experience Quality

Based on available reviews, the guides and drivers are generally knowledgeable but sometimes lack fluent English, which can hinder the storytelling aspect. The driver’s late pickup, as mentioned, can cause a rushed experience. Some travelers felt the stops were okay but not memorable—more like a quick overview than an in-depth exploration.

That said, the stunning views at rice terraces and waterfalls do deliver on visual appeal, and the art villages give a glimpse of Bali’s craftsmanship. If your priority is seeing multiple highlights efficiently, this tour ticks that box.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This excursion suits travelers who:

• Desire a structured, guided day with minimal hassle
• Appreciate a variety of sights—cultural, natural, and artistic
• Don’t mind spending time in traffic or rushing through stops
• Want included entry fees and meals for convenience

It’s less ideal for those seeking deep culture or a leisurely experience, as the schedule is packed and some stops are brief.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers looking for a cost-effective, all-in-one day that covers Bali’s highlights with minimal planning, this tour offers valuable convenience. The included lunch, entrance fees, and transport make it a straightforward option, especially if you’re short on time or prefer guided visits.

However, the mixed reviews about guides, delays, and the rushed nature of the stops should be noted. If you’re someone who thrives on in-depth experiences and meaningful interactions, you might find this tour somewhat superficial. Conversely, if you value seeing a broad sweep of Bali’s top sights in one day with ease, it could serve your needs well.

In summary, it’s a decent choice for travelers seeking a busy, straightforward overview rather than a deep cultural dive. Be prepared for a full day, some traffic, and a guide who may not always be perfectly fluent—but also enjoy the stunning scenery and convenient logistics the tour provides.

FAQ

Does this tour include transportation from the port?
Yes, your driver will pick you up directly from Benoa port and transport you comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees for stops like Puseh Batuan Temple, Tegenungan Waterfall, and the rice terraces are included in the price.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a lunch featuring Indonesian cuisine is included as part of the tour, served at the Ceking Rice Terrace.

How long is the total tour?
The whole experience lasts around 8 hours, from pickup to return, including travel time and sightseeing.

What is the group size?
You can choose a private small group (up to 6 people) or a larger group (up to 12), depending on your preference.

Are guides fluent in English?
The driver or guide speaks English, but some reviews mention that communication might be limited, which can affect the storytelling.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Most travelers can participate, but some stops involve walking and moderate physical activity. Travelers should have a moderate fitness level.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by Amazing Nusa Penida Tour, with contact details available for questions or special requests.

This Bali Benoa Shore Excursion aims to balance convenience with a taste of the island’s highlights. Whether it’s the stunning rice terraces or intricate temples that catch your eye, this tour offers a well-rounded, if somewhat hurried, introduction to Bali’s diverse charm.