Photo: Claudio Poggio / Unsplash
Indonesia
Motor yacht charter in Bali
An Australian sport yacht for a quick crossing of the Badung Strait and a day that fits in both a reef and a sunset.
Motor yacht charter in Bali solves the main problem with boat days here: the journey. The Badung Strait is wide and full of current, so a catamaran spends a good part of the day crossing it, whereas the Riviera 4800 Sport Yacht at up to 30 knots can fit Crystal Bay, lunch in a Lembongan cove and the Uluwatu cliffs at sunset into a single outing.
It is 15.5 metres long, with room for up to twelve guests and two cabins. The air-conditioned saloon has a sliding roof that opens on sunny days and closes when a tropical downpour rolls in, a real bonus in the wet season. A swim platform at the stern makes getting into the water easy. The crew of two knows the strait's tides and currents and plans the route around both.
Couples, honeymooners and small groups staying in a villa in Canggu or on the Bukit choose this yacht when they want a day at sea without hours of transit. A larger party with children is better served by a catamaran, and a multi-day voyage calls for a phinisi.
Motor yachts in Bali
What it costs
The lowest indicative prices among the yachts of this type on this page.
- Full day
- from €1,800 / day
Indicative "from" market prices for this destination. The exact price depends on dates, duration and the specific yacht, and comes in your personal quote.
Usually included
- A captain and deckhand who know the strait's currents
- Fuel for the Benoa–Penida–Lembongan route
- Masks and fins for snorkelling
- Water and cold drinks
Usually extra
- Nusa Penida marine park fees
- Dinner aboard during the Uluwatu sunset
- Alcohol and a celebration cake
- Transfer from your villa to Benoa
Exact inclusions depend on the yacht and are always listed in your written offer.
Where you go
The yacht leaves Benoa Harbour (Bali Marina), with Serangan available by arrangement. In the morning it crosses to Nusa Penida for Crystal Bay, Manta Point and a view of Kelingking from the water, calls at a Lembongan bay for lunch, then follows the Bukit Peninsula to Uluwatu in the evening. A shorter option is a sunset-only run to the cliffs and back.
Marinas
- Benoa Harbour (Bali Marina)
- Serangan
- Sanur
- Labuan Bajo (for Komodo cruises)
When to go
The best months are April to October: dry, sunny and clear underwater. From November to March showers roll through, but morning trips usually go ahead, and the enclosed saloon keeps the yacht comfortable whatever the weather. Full days start early to meet the mantas before other boats arrive, while a sunset run takes about three hours.
Motor yacht charter in Bali: FAQ
Why choose a motor yacht over a catamaran in Bali?
Mainly speed: the Riviera crosses the Badung Strait much faster, so one day can combine Penida snorkelling with an Uluwatu sunset. A catamaran has more room and takes more people, but spends longer getting there.
Will we see manta rays?
Mantas visit Manta Point all year, but no one can guarantee an encounter. The captain times the visit around the current, and an early start improves your odds of having the site to yourselves.
How many guests can come?
Up to twelve. It is not set up for a large group overnight: the two cabins are really for resting and changing during the day.
What if it rains?
The sliding roof is closed and everyone stays in the air-conditioned saloon. In heavy swell or rain the captain may adjust the route or suggest another date, with terms set out in your offer.