Flying Fish

BALI
Beth Bushnell - \\spril 2010
Much already exists on Bali, so just a couple of comments. The marina gets very busy in the ‘season’, but very few people had to wait more than 2 days until a place became free. Be bold, if you see a space on arrival, take it. If you have to anchor, then the main anchorage to the south of Benoa was preferable to the small area next to the marina. The main anchorage is far less crowded than it used to be. In view of the problematic trip north from Bali, and the miserable condition of the marina (safe but dirty and unkempt), several yachts elected to skip Benoa and anchor in the north of Bali at Lovina Beach. They reported favourably and were able to do day trips to see the highlights of Bali from the north.

Bali Marina – 08°45.00'S, 115°13.00'E
Bali Marina, Benoa Harbour, Bali, Indonesia, 8°45’S;115°13’E

Our slip at the Yacht Club in Bali was 08°44.432 S 115°12.800 E

Submittd by Will Cloud 2007

Benoa is considered an unsafe harbor to enter at night for first timers like us. Mercifully a bit of wind came up with the moon around noon and helped speed our arrival, motor sailing against a strong opposing current. As Laule 'a entered Benoa Harbor a large catamaran ferry and a small tug towing a barge full of four brand new yellow excavating machines made its way out past us. Just what I was hoping for. Mariners with local knowledge showing the way through the narrow zigzag channel lined with coral reefs. The expensive Nobeltec Admiral CDROM charts for this part of the world say right on them that the Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite derived coordinates shown on the charts may be off a little from what the paper charts say. So if we rely on a route we plotted on the electronic charts we could be off by a hundred yards. Enough to run into trouble. After arriving safely at the Bali Marina using the channel markers as our guide we looked at the track of Laule 'a laid down on the electronic chart on the computer display. It showed us going right over the reef most of the way in. Off about 100 yards from the route I plotted on the charts. This is not surprising or a new experience. We have seen this before in Fiji. Many places in the world the plotted route is dead on and the autopilot can be trusted to steer the boat following the plotted electronic route with only human eyes to make sure no boats are in the way. In exotic and far away places like Indonesia the fine corrections have not been surveyed. Careful timing for daylight entrances to be able to see the water depths and steer well through the channels are what we always try for. Our fall back was to anchor outside the harbor until the next day. Fortune was kind and a cold beer in the marina restaurant might actually be possible this night.
We had just a bit of apprehension coming in late like this because our fuel level showed empty. I have never run Laule 'a out of fuel so I don 't know for sure if she could go 1000 miles. Well she can. True we had very flat seas with little wind. It was like a bath tub with the water temperature 32 degrees Celsius and air temperature averaging the same. That means a bathing suit can be worn day and night with buckets of sea water over the head during the day to keep cool. Laule 'a has a pretty good freezer on board but with all the frozen meat and vegetables inside we hesitate to make ice because of the amount of energy needed to keep it all going. Refrigeration is the largest energy user on the boat except for the engine to move us through the water. We had provisioned for ten days at sea so now we have plenty of food left after catching fish along the way. A shame too because the food in Bali is so cheap.
We did get the cold beer by sending the night watchman out on his motorcycle to the local mini market. The restaurant was closed. We were confined to the boat until customs, immigration and agricultural inspection could come and clear us in. Our bad luck in arriving so late was to miss them all on the eve of a three day Hindu holiday. One of the largest of the year. Triono, the Bali Marina manager, was able to get a special favor the next day and Customs and Immigration cleared us in. Our visas were ready today and finally we could go sight seeing.
What an experience. A hair raising cab ride to Denpasar. Motorcycles swarming around the cars in a confusing dance of near misses that no one seemed to get very much excited about. A young motorcyclist pulled in front of our onrushing cab paying no attention to us. Driving with one hand and texting on his cell phone with the other. Whole families with little children on one motorcycle. No helmets, no shoes, no fear, bald tires. In front of them a delivery man balancing six five-gallon water bottles in flimsy racks built on to his motorcycle. So much trust put into one another to slide by inches away with out mishap.
It cost Cameron around $2.50 US to buy a SIM card for his cell phone that included a local Indonesian phone number that can be called from anywhere on earth, no charge to the receiving phone. It included a $1.00 US credit for outgoing calls. Local calls are charged at $0.05 US per minute.

Approach Track

Below is our detailed route starting with the entrance to the harbour and ending with tying up at the slip:

08 45.08400 S 115 14.64700 E

08 45.08300 S 115 14.64000 E

08 45.08400 S 115 14.63600 E

08 45.08800 S 115 14.56700 E

08 45.09000 S 115 14.53700 E

08 45.11200 S 115 14.48700 E

08 45.31900 S 115 14.02500 E

08 45.41800 S 115 13.78300 E

08 45.41600 S 115 13.76500 E

08 45.39400 S 115 13.70400 E

08 45.36100 S 115 13.66700 E

08 45.13200 S 115 13.43400 E

08 45.11700 S 115 13.40100 E

08 45.11500 S 115 13.39800 E

08 45.06900 S 115 13.25900 E

08 45.02100 S 115 13.05100 E

08 45.00700 S 115 13.03500 E

08 44.81500 S 115 12.87800 E

08 44.66100 S 115 12.79300 E

08 44.59300 S 115 12.78600 E

08 44.48300 S 115 12.80600 E

08 44.42600 S 115 12.82200 E

08 44.42300 S 115 12.82000 E

08 44.42300 S 115 12.82000 E

08 44.42100 S 115 12.81900 E

08 44.41900 S 115 12.81600 E

08 44.41700 S 115 12.81200 E

08 44.41500 S 115 12.80500 E

08 44.41500 S 115 12.80300 E

08 44.41500 S 115 12.80200 E

08 44.41500 S 115 12.80100 E

08 44.41700 S 115 12.79700 E

08 44.41700 S 115 12.79600 E

08 44.41700 S 115 12.79500 E

08 44.41700 S 115 12.79500 E

08 44.42000 S 115 12.79300 E

08 44.42100 S 115 12.79300 E

08 44.42200 S 115 12.79300 E

08 44.42500 S 115 12.79400 E

08 44.42600 S 115 12.79400 E

08 44.42700 S 115 12.79400 E

08 44.43200 S 115 12.80000 E

GPS coordinates are from our shipboard unit which is not WAAS enabled so plus or minus 30 feet.

Submitted by Alan Taylor, November 2003

Whilst with Spring Gold recently sailing from Darwin up to Bali, I collected for you a copy of the Port Guide to Benoa Harbour, Bali from which you might be able to glean some information. Firstly, it is not a place I would recommend you go to unless you have to, the marina is situated on a long man-made peninsula primarily for the commercial dock. Perhaps its only advantage is that it seems to be fairly straight forward to check into Indonesia here. We had reports that it is difficult elsewhere.

Extracted from the Bali International Marina Brochure

Welcome Message

Known for centuries for scenic and cultural beauty on land, Ball is only just becoming known for its potential as a gateway to marine tourism, stretching eastward through some of the world 's most unique islands and cultures.

With the only international port facilities between Kupang, Darwin and Surabaya, Bali is the ideal short/long-term base for marine visitors to explore our islands or develop marine-based tourism operations. Indonesia ideally could be to Asia what the Caribbean is to the Americas.

Indonesia has the world 's richest assortment of coral (450 species) from fringe and barrier reefs to atolls and patch reefs. Indonesia 's 85,700 sq km of reefs constitute 14 percent of the world 's reefs. This alone means a wealth of potential for underwater tourism attractions.

As tourism has succeeded in helping Bali maintain its culture, marine tourism can become a means for preventing further destruction of our valuable marine resources from human activities, such as dynamite and cyanide fishing, pollution, over-exploitation and environmentally-unfriendly tourism.

We welcome visitors to explore our marine abundance and ask you to do so with care. Suggestions, observations and critique for the future sustainability of our seas are critical and welcome. Please help us maintain our resources as we develop, for the world 's future generations and the health of our planet.

Bali Tourism Authority

Chief Dr Ir I Gde Pitana

CAIT (CRUISING PERMIT) APPLICATION

Send the following documents to the Bali Marina by express mail or e-mail (fax copies may not be clear enough) at least five or six weeks in advance of your departure. Use boat name with all correspondence, • Legible copies of passports (captain & crew) • One passport size photo of owner and/or captain • Copy of boat documentation with complete description of boat • Last port before entering Indonesian waters and next destination after Indonesia • Approximate departure date from last port • List of Indonesian islands you intend to visit • Your return address to fax or e-mail the CAIT document • Transfer US$150 to the Bali Marina bank account To : PERMATA BANK Beneficiary : HARYO SUGITO Account No. : 580-410-1170 (US$ account) Swift : Cabang Benoa BBBAIDJA Bali, Indonesia • Fax copy of your bank transfer to the Marina for proof; otherwise request cannot be processed • To use Visa or MasterCard, the Marina requires a photocopy of the card by fax or e-mail with an authorization written on it and signed with "please charge my credit card for the purchase of an Indonesian CAIT in the amount not to exceed US$150".

CAIT INFORMATION •

Possession of a Cruising Permit on arrival is required by law. In the case of an emergency stop in Benoa Harbor, you can receive three days "safe harbor". The Indonesian Navy representative will approve your stay (for fee equal to CAIT cost), and there is a charge for extending the "emergency" stay. • If you have a Bali International Marina CAIT, the Marina clears you in and out of Benoa Harbor at no extra charge.

• CAIT processing takes four to five weeks. If you sail directly to Bali, you can receive your

CAIT on arrival at the Marina but it is strongly advised to have a partially completed CAIT before entering Indonesian waters. Bali International Marina can fax or e-mail a partially completed CAIT in two to three weeks. • Once you clear in to Benoa Harbor, the Harbor Master holds your original CAIT until you clear out, so crew changes cannot be made. Have your crew assignments before entering Indonesian waters, even if the crew, owners or guests are going to fly into Bali to sail with you locally. Guests flying into Bali to join the boat (without a return air-ticket) will need a copy of your CAIT on arrival at the airport. • Passports are stamped by Immigrations at Benoa Harbor and anyone can fly out and return if need be. Keep a copy of the airline ticket for proof of departure. • Your sailing craft can be left in Indonesia indefinitely, as long as you have a valid CAIT, and return with a new visa for unlimited times. You also can extend a Social Visa for up to six months.

VISAS*

Indonesia provides a 60-day tourist visa free on arrival to most nationalities (excluding several South American and African countries). Apply at an Indonesian consulate or embassy and receive your visa before departure and this visa may be renewed for an additional term. Passport must be valid for at least 180 days from arrival date, and have empty pages for stamping.

If the validity of your CAIT is longer than your tourist visa, you have two choices: • Apply for a Social Visa, renewable each month for four months after the initial 60 days on arrival. For US$ 50 Bali International Marina can provide the sponsor letter with your CAIT. • Fly out of the country and return with another 60-day tourist visa.

* Visa regulations subject to change in September 2003

BENOA HARBOUR, PORT INFORMATION

LOCATION:

Bali International Marina is centrally located on the island of Bali only 12 kilometers from the Ngurah Rai International Airport. It is half-way between the tourist towns of Sanur and Kuta for shopping and entertainment; 60 km from Ubud, the center for arts and culture.

SAILING APPROACHES:

Benoa Harbor lands begin at the Sea Buoy at 8°45 '14S, 115° 14 '55E. Follow the leads on a course of 255 True, past buoys #1 and #2, to the beginning of the dog-leg channel. Maintain a course close to the Red (left) side channel markers (stay clear of all Green markers). Continue 30 meters past the last Buoy #8 before turning North (staying close to the main ship wharf portside) to the Marina, located at 8°44 '28"S and 115° 12 '48"E.

Night approaches not recommended without prior experience (very dim navigation lights against a bright background). Note: In the past, currents were strong inside the harbor and within the Marina. This is no longer true due to landfill developments within the harbor. Recommend a slack-tide arrival if possible. Call on VHF 77 for assistance.

FORMALITIES:

Upon arrival, the Indonesian Government requires all yachts/crew to have, in their possession: • Valid passport good for 180 days beyond the length of stay • CAIT (or security clearance) • Tourist Visa. With your CAIT in hand, you may obtain your visa at any Indonesian Consulate prior to departure or upon arrival at a "port of entry".

The most frequented Ports of Entry are: Ambon, Ujung Pandang, Bali, Jakarta, Kupang, Padang or Batam. • Crew list which matches the names and passport numbers on your CAIT.

RESERVATIONS

Berths cannot be reserved. The Marina will do everything possible to make space when you arrive. Ring up on VHF 77 or phone a day ahead. In the worst case, there may be a waiting list during high season.

YACHT SERVICES

Bali is the first port of call for yachts and superyachts wanting to experience the breathtaking, remote cruising grounds of Eastern Indonesia.

This area provides pristine islands, world-class diving and unfrequented anchorages. This culturally fascinating region provides great cruising in a friendly environment.

Ball 's Benoa Harbor provides marina services for superyachts with limited berths, conveniently located 15 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport.

The island 's strong hospitality accounts for the level of international quality service items, food, beverages and produce availability. Extensive provisioning and delivery services are available. Bali has a fine selection of local and imported products, fresh produce, international quality locally produced and imported meats, imported and locally bottled wines and spirits, baked goods and pastries.

Comprehensive parts sourcing, supply, import and delivery are available from a network of suppliers worldwide. Parts and supplies can be procured cost-effectively and urgently.

Qualified professionals are available locally to provide technical services. These include electronics, electrics, hydraulics, refrigeration, computer system analysis, engineering, S/S fabrication, shipwright, sail making and repair and uniform making services.

MARINA SERVICES

BALI YACHT CLUB

All Marina residents receive a complimentary Bali Yacht Club Card for discount beer and free showers. Anchored yachts may purchase a card.

COMMUNICATIONS

International direct dial telephone, facsimile, Cyber Business Office and Monitoring VHF Channel 77. Mail received and forwarding.

CREDIT CARDS

Visa & MasterCard accepted for all services and restaurant charges.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE

Available at daily exchange rates. Also credit card cash advances.

FEES

Berthing rates are approximately US$ 1 per meter per day and US$ 2.50 for Benoa Harbor fees. There are 8 Med Moorings for US$ 7 per day. Dingy Dock & Use Fees are US$ 2 per day or US$ 45 per month. (Anchored yachts enjoy the same services).

FEE DISCOUNTS

Off-season (Nov. to Jul.) after second week—20 discount; SSCA Commodores—10; year-round and paid quarterly in advance—30 discount.

FLY IN-FLY OUT, YEAR-ROUND YACHTS

Yachts may remain in Indonesia indefinitely with no customs duty. Long-term yacht care and maintenance available.

FUEL

Diesel fuel of good quality, dispensed with US-made meters.

LAUNDRY SERVICE

Next day laundry service available.

PETS

Regulations are subject to interpretation, but animals arriving on boats don 't seem to apply. Many clear without problems-unless you fly out of the country with the hope of returning with your pet. Bali is a rabies-free zone and is protective to maintain that status. Animal quarantine is at the airport for air-arriving pets. Non-indigenous, resident pets must have an identity card, available through a local veterinarian.

PIRATES

There are no known incidents of piracy involving yachts sailing Indonesian waters in the last six years.

PORT CLEARANCE

With each CAIT the first port clearance in/out of the country is free of charge. Visiting yachts need only check into the country at the first port and out of the country at the last port as long as there are no changes to itinerary, captain or crew, which then means you need to check-in and register the change. It is no longer necessary to clear in/out of every port you visit.

POWER

The Marina has metered water and power, providing maximum 10 amps.

ROYAL BALI YACHT CLUB

This is a non-profit club dedicated to promote the sport of sailing and to promote Indonesia as a yachting destination. The Club holds monthly social meetings. Scheduled yacht racing includes around the marks or around the islands and cruising rallies to discover new anchorages and beaches. Sailing training is conducted for captains and crew of tomorrow and charity events promote the sport of sailing and representation in the local community, to promote Indonesia as a yachting destination. The club works closely with Indonesian associations and local authorities to deregulate and/or simplify harbor clearances and documentation. Located at Bali Marina Benoa Harbor.

SAFETY

Several governments have issued travel warnings. In spite of the warnings, no yachts have reported experiencing anything but hospitality while cruising all of Indonesia. There are hot spots to avoid, as anywhere else in the world.

SECURITY

The Marina provides 24-hour security. Take safety measures— "tie it down and lock it up".

SHIP SHOP

Provisions available, including beer, bottled water, propane, ice, fishing supplies, marine supplies, charts, sundries and provisioning service.

TRANSPORTATION

Hire taxi, automobile or motorcycle, airline or island tour reservations through the Marina Business Center.

WATER TAXI SERVICE

Free from Marina to the anchorages.

WEAPONS

If you declare firearms, you will be asked to sign a customs inventory and the weapons locker will be sealed by customs officials.

Bali Marina, BENOA, BALI • INDONESIA Tel: +(62) 361 723601, Fax: +(62) 361 723604 Contact Person: Dick or Haryo
Bali Marina – 08°45.00'S, 115°13.00'E
E Beth Bushnell, 03 January 2012
This is better sheltered than it looks on charts or as you approach. The anchorage is in 5-7m sand between 2 arms of fringing reef and tucked as far as possible behind an north west extension of the north reef to minimise swell. It can get very rolly. The approach transit in “101 Anchorages” is on the Dolphin monument on the beach and was good. Reefs needed good visibility to see easily. Charting was well out. There were many fish aggregation devices (FAD) along the north coast of Bali. Good supplies and restaurants in the local villages. Diesel delivered to boat. There is a Carrefour supermarket in nearby Singaraja, a bemo trip away, the best shopping since Darwin. Good mobile and internet with lots of wifi ashore and internet cafes.

Very Touristy but fun. We left the dingy on the beach with no problems but lots of touts.

Plenty of options for seeing Bali. We happily left the boat for a day. Good nearby reefs but better diving further round at Pulau Menjangan, a Marine National Park.

The currents between Lombok and Bali were strong. Even crossing the north end we had 2 kts of S current. In the NE monsoon the current is reversed. One boat that went to Bali Marina found getting north through the Strait too difficult with 5-6kts of tide plus wind against them. They turned round and went via Bali Strait. By hugging the west coast of Bali they had no adverse tide until the narrows and that for only a short distance.

Bali yacht services are reputed to be useful if spares need to be imported, can organise repairs, mind boats, extend visas and organise a CAIT.

Bali has few anchoring options being steep to with few bays but in calm weather with careful exploring an overnight stop can be found.