The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism (MoT) is working to reform the country’s travel and tourism sector, aiming to contribute five percent to the national GDP by 2029. The focus of the strategy is the development of marine tourism and boating infrastructure.

New marina in Bali, Indonesia, set to open in 2025 (Photo credit: AsiaPacific Superyachts Indonesia)

Rizki Handayani, MoT’s deputy for industry and investment, stated at the Indonesia Hotel and Restaurant Association (IHRA) national conference, “The national government is restructuring all sectors, including tourism, to drive economic growth. Our goal is to position tourism as a leading contributor to the national economy.”

The deputy emphasised focusing on travellers who seek premium experiences to boost visitor spending and revenue. “We must provide products that resonate with high-value travellers.” Handayani added that the ministry is prioritising wellness, gastronomy and marine tourism to cater to current travel trends.

MoT is working to develop marinas and boating infrastructure to capitalise on the growing yachting industry across Southeast Asia and Australia. “Indonesia is a prime destination for yachts, and improved facilities will stimulate related industries and attract more visitors.”

In support of the plan, Indonesia’s first full-service yacht marina is scheduled to be developed. PT Marina Development Indonesia and Pelindo have signed a contract for the project. The facility will include:

  • 180 wet berths, including over 50 will accommodate vessels up to 90-metre.
  • Modern yacht service area with a 200-tonne travel lift.
  • High-quality fuelling station.
Land concept of new marina in Indonesia set to open in 2025 (Photo credit: AsiaPacific Superyachts Indonesia)

Captain Thomas Taatjes of Asia Pacific Superyachts Indonesia expressed, “We are all looking forward to a promising future for yachting and marine tourism in Indonesia.”

Ulf Backlund, President Director of Marina Development Indonesia, commented on the project, "Indonesia deserves a first-class marina that reflects its status as the new yachting paradise of the world. Indonesia's distinctive location, safely positioned outside hurricane and typhoon paths, combined with its 17,000 islands, spectacular diving locations, diverse languages, cultures and favourable weather all year long, makes Indonesia the ideal location for such a development.” 

“This marina will attract global yachting enthusiasts and open up for exploring Indonesia's natural beauty in the biggest archipelago in the world," Backlund added.