Shore Excursion Cruise Ship from Benoa and Celukan Bawang Port

If you’re arriving in Bali via cruise, chances are you’ll be looking for a way to make the most of your limited time on the island. This shore excursion from Benoa and Celukan Bawang ports promises a carefully curated journey through Bali’s highlights, blending cultural spots, natural beauty, and scenic vistas—all in a comfortable, private setting. With high praise from travelers and a reputation for flexibility and insight, this tour seems like an excellent option for those wanting to explore Bali beyond the usual tourist traps.

One of the standout features of this experience is its customizable itinerary. Whether you want to spend more time soaking in the peaceful rice terraces, explore lively markets, or jump into the water at prime snorkeling spots, the tour adapts to your interests. Plus, with a knowledgeable guide and private transportation, you’ll avoid the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads or crowded groups.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour length of 6 to 8 hours might feel a bit tight if you aim to see everything, especially if your ship’s schedule is strict. It’s best suited for travelers who want a flexible, personalized experience rather than a packed schedule of every possible sight.

In summary, this tour is ideal for cruise passengers who want a tailored, intimate exploration of Bali’s diverse regions, from the serene north to bustling south, with a focus on authentic, scenic, and cultural highlights.

Key Points

• Flexible and customizable: Designed to suit your interests and time constraints, making it ideal for cruise travelers with tight schedules.
• Expert guides and private transport: Ensures you get personalized insights and comfort, plus the ability to skip less interesting stops.
• Diverse itinerary: Combines natural attractions, cultural sites, and scenic views, offering a well-rounded Bali experience.
• Excellent reviews: Consistently high ratings with comments praising guides, views, and overall value.
• Value for money: At just over $44 per person, it offers a cost-effective way to see several key Bali sights in one day.
• Includes essentials: Bottled water, air-conditioned vehicle, and travel insurance are all included for peace of mind.

Diving Into the Experience: What to Expect

This private shore excursion from Benoa and Celukan Bawang is essentially a taste of Bali’s diverse appeal, tailored to your preferences. Here’s how the day unfolds, based on the detailed itinerary and guest reviews.

North Bali: The Hidden Paradise

Starting with North Bali, the tour ventures into an area often dubbed “Bali’s last paradise.” Known for its untouched landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, North Bali features some of the island’s most iconic and least commercialized sights.

Ulun Danu Beratan Floating Temple is a highlight, and it’s easy to see why. The temple, gracefully perched on Lake Beratan, offers picture-perfect views that are truly postcard-worthy. Visitors consistently comment on the beauty of this spot, with one saying it left them “greatly inspired” and praising the peaceful ambiance.

Next, the guide often takes guests to Lovina’s Black Sand Beach, which provides a different kind of seaside experience—softer, darker sands and fewer crowds. Nearby, the Brahmavihara Arama Buddhist Temple and Banyumala Twin Waterfalls offer peaceful escapes and photo opportunities that feel almost untouched by mass tourism.

Guests frequently mention the scenery—lush rice terraces, mountain vistas, and waterfalls—that make North Bali a feast for the eyes. Visiting a coffee plantation and local traditional markets adds a cultural layer, allowing you to experience everyday Balinese life and sample local brews.

Hot springs at Banar and Wanagiri Hidden Hill are also part of the itinerary, providing relaxing or panoramic moments that travelers rate highly.

Ubud: Cultural Hotspot

The tour then moves to Ubud, the island’s arts and spiritual center. Here, you can expect a mix of nature, spirituality, and tradition. Highlights often include the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, where the layered fields cascade down the hills, perfect for photos and peaceful strolls.

Other common stops are the Tegenungan Waterfall, which reviewers describe as “worth the visit” despite being a bit crowded at times, and the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where playful macaques add a lively touch. The Ubud Art Market and Ubud Royal Palace provide insight into Bali’s artistic and royal heritage, with some reviews mentioning how engaging and colorful these spots are.

For those interested in local crafts, visits to Celik Village and Mas Village showcase traditional goldsmithing and wood carving, while art lovers can explore many galleries along the way.

South Bali: Beaches and Temples

The final leg of the journey takes you to South Bali, famed for its stunning beaches and iconic temples. Depending on your preferences, you might visit Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff edge with sweeping ocean views, or Tanah Lot, another famous sea temple often photographed at sunset.

Beach lovers can enjoy Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, or Padang Padang, each offering unique coastal experiences. For those seeking a bit of nightlife or a relaxing beach club vibe, the tour can include stops at spots like Finns or Potato Head.

If adventure calls, optional activities such as Bali paragliding or bali safari experiences can be added, though these might extend beyond the basic package.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the most praised aspects is the knowledgeable and friendly guides. Reviewers rave about guides like Jun, who “answered all questions about Balinese culture” and expertly navigated traffic, ensuring the journey was smooth and engaging. The ability to personalize the day—doing more of what interests you and skipping less appealing stops—adds to the appeal.

Several guests mention that the value is excellent for the price. For around $44, you get private transport, bottled water, a guide, and visits to multiple key sites. Considering the cost of individual entrance fees, meals, and transportation on your own, this package offers a hassle-free way to cover a lot of ground.

Another highlight is the scenic diversity—from mountain lakes and waterfalls to vibrant markets and lively beaches, you’ll experience the many faces of Bali in one day. The tour’s flexibility means you can focus on cultural highlights, natural beauty, or relaxing spots, depending on your mood.

Potential Limitations

While flexible, the duration of 6 to 8 hours could feel a bit rushed if you’re keen to see everything in detail. Some travelers noted that there’s “not a lot to see” in certain areas, emphasizing that the tour is best enjoyed with a focus on specific highlights rather than trying to do everything. Also, since it’s a private tour, timings are somewhat dependent on your preferences and pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a cruise passenger eager to squeeze in a broad, personalized taste of Bali, this tour is a smart choice. It’s perfect for those who want expert guidance, a comfortable ride, and the flexibility to prioritize the sights that resonate most with them.

Travelers interested in culture, nature, and scenic landscapes—without the stress of planning each step—will find this especially appealing. It’s also suitable for those who prefer private, intimate experiences rather than large group tours.

However, if you’re someone who wants to see every possible site or has ample time ashore, you might want to supplement this tour with additional days or activities.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers bottled water, private air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, and travel insurance. You’ll enjoy a personalized experience without worrying about hidden costs for transport or basic amenities.

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts 6 to 8 hours, making it a full-day trip. This duration allows for visits to several key sites without feeling overly rushed, but it’s best to keep track of your ship’s departure time.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, this is a private tour designed for flexibility. You can choose to spend more time at certain spots or skip some less-interesting stops, making it ideal for cruise travelers with specific preferences.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to accommodate various interests. However, those with mobility issues should check with the provider, as some sites involve walking or uneven terrain.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Parking fees are not included and are payable separately if applicable. Entrance fees to attractions are usually included or paid directly at the sites, but it’s good to confirm with your guide.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a camera, and cash for souvenirs or optional extras. The tour provides bottled water, but you might want to carry additional if you plan to walk or hike.

Final Thoughts

Opting for this private, customizable Bali shore excursion offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and scenic views—all tailored to your pace and interests. The guides’ local knowledge and flexibility make it particularly appealing for travelers who want an authentic and relaxed experience without the stress of planning every detail.

While it may not cover absolutely everything, it hits the highlights in a way that feels personal and genuine. Whether you’re eager to see Bali’s iconic temples, lush rice terraces, or vibrant markets, this tour provides a practical and enjoyable way to make your port days memorable.

If you’re after an easy, well-organized way to explore Bali’s diverse regions and want the comfort of private transport and expert guidance, this tour is definitely worth considering.

To sum it up, this shore excursion is best suited for cruise travelers craving a personalized, flexible, and insightful Bali experience. It’s an excellent value for those looking to see the island’s most captivating sights without feeling rushed, all while enjoying the comfort of private transport and a friendly guide. Perfect for those who want a journey that balances natural beauty, cultural richness, and a touch of adventure.