Bali police inspect Celukan Bawang Port for proposed Java–Bali ferry routes

Celukan Bawang Port — Bali police traffic officials inspected the port and its access roads on Thursday, November 5, 2026, as authorities assessed its potential role in an alternative Java–Bali ferry connection.

Why it matters: If approved, the proposed routes could provide an alternative for vehicles travelling between Java and Bali, but no operating date has been confirmed.

Police examined possible vehicle congestion, road conditions and the traffic-management measures that could be needed if the route is developed, according to Bali Post. The inspection was led by Bali Police traffic director Yong Ferrydjon.

The assessment followed discussions involving the Coordinating Ministry for Infrastructure and Regional Development, state port operator Pelindo, the Celukan Bawang Port Authority Office and Bali’s land-transport agency, RRI reported. Authorities are considering routes linking Celukan Bawang with Tanjung Wangi and Jangkar in East Java.

RRI reported that the Tanjung Wangi–Celukan Bawang route would cover about 57 kilometres, with an estimated sailing time of 2.8 hours, while the Jangkar–Celukan Bawang route would cover about 100 kilometres and take about 4.9 hours. The estimates assume vessels with capacity of 1,500 to 2,000 gross tonnes.

Celukan Bawang’s third berth was reported to be 99% complete as of November 5. The port’s general manager, Jumhari Nasrun, said a trial remained targeted for November, but Pelindo had not set a date because it was awaiting direction from the Transportation Ministry, according to NusaBali.

The proposed service has not yet been approved for operation. RRI reported that the final decision would depend on the Transportation Ministry after an assessment by the Directorate General of Sea Transportation.

The plans are being prepared ahead of the 2026–27 Christmas and New Year travel period. Operational details, including the vessels, schedule and vehicle categories, remain subject to further technical direction and coordination.

Sources

• RRI
• NusaBali
• BaliPost