Seminyak is a fantastic place to start your Bali adventure, especially if your ship docks nearby. Its location on the southern coast offers easy access to some of Bali’s best attractions, making it ideal for short shore excursions. Whether you want a quick cultural fix, a scenic nature walk, or a blend of both, Seminyak serves as a perfect launching pad. We particularly like the Bali Benoa Shore Excursion for cruise passengers because it combines authentic sights with a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience, ideal for limited timeframes. Plus, if you’re craving a more art-focused day, the Private Ubud Art Village tour offers a delightful deep dive into Bali’s creative spirit. For those interested in iconic landmarks and snorkeling, the Highlights Tour from Benoa Port offers a comprehensive day out.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find three top-rated shore excursions from Seminyak, each tailored to different interests and schedules:
- A 7-8 hour all-inclusive tour exploring Bali’s temples and culture (Tour #1)
- An 8-9 hour private art and cultural tour around Ubud (Tour #2)
- A 10-hour highlights trip featuring temples, waterfalls, and snorkeling (Tour #3)
1. Bali Benoa Shore Excursion for cruise’s passenger – All Inclusive
This all-inclusive 7 to 8-hour tour is designed for travelers who want to make the most of their limited time in Bali. It starts right from Benoa Harbour, where a guide will meet you with a sign bearing your name, simplifying your arrival. The tour includes visits to Puseh Batuan Temple, one of Bali’s oldest, built around the year 1020 AD, with striking Balinese ornaments and coconut-fiber roofs. The guide will share insights into its history and significance, making it more than just a photo stop.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on Bali’s rich culture, beautiful scenery, and friendly people. The guide is highly praised—Jun, for example, is described as knowledgeable and personable, often finding hidden gems not in typical tourist itineraries. The tour also includes a flexible stop for local shopping or additional sights, depending on your interests, making it adaptable for a variety of travelers.
This tour is especially ideal if you’re looking for a well-organized, worry-free day with admission tickets included. The price ($60 per person) reflects good value considering the comprehensive itinerary and personalized experience. Reviews consistently rate it 5/5, highlighting the friendly guides and unique destinations.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers who want to see Bali’s highlights comfortably and efficiently, with the added benefit of insider knowledge and cultural stories.
2. Shore Excursion: Private Tours To Ubud Art Village And Surrounding Area
This private 8 to 9-hour tour gives you a focused look at Bali’s vibrant art and crafts scene. The tour is designed to take you from your cruise ship directly to Ubud and its surroundings, eliminating the hassle of planning and transportation. With a maximum of six people, it promises an intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention.
The tour features a visit to Ubud Art Village, where you’ll see artisans at work and explore local workshops. You’ll also visit local temples that offer both peaceful scenery and cultural insights. The tour’s transport is in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, making it perfect for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and personal interaction with their guide.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on Bali’s artistic culture. It’s ideal for travelers seeking more than just sightseeing—those who want to appreciate Bali’s craftsmanship and traditional arts firsthand. The review praises the guide’s flexibility and ability to adapt the itinerary based on your interests, making it a tailored experience.
At $50 per person, it offers excellent value for those looking for a cultural and creative immersion in a small group setting. This is a great choice for art lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a deeper connection to Bali.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers interested in Bali’s artistry and local life, especially if you prefer a personalized, small-group experience.
$50.00 per person
3. Bali Cruise Shore Excursion – Highlights Tour from Benoa Port
This 10-hour private tour is designed for those who want to see Bali’s most iconic sights while enjoying the flexibility of a private guide. Starting from Benoa Harbour, the day includes visits to Lempuyang Temple, famous for its striking split gate framing Mount Agung—ideal for memorable photos and spiritual moments. The tour also features Tirta Gangga, a royal water palace with koi ponds and stone fountains that exude tranquility.
One of the unique highlights is snorkeling at Blue Lagoon Beach in Padangbai, where vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish like clownfish and moray eels await snorkelers. The tour also includes a scenic walk to Kanto Lampo Waterfall, a lesser-known but impressive cascade in Gianyar.
The flexibility of this private tour means your guide can customize stops or extend time at favorite spots. While the price ($31 per person) is lower, note that admission tickets are not included, so plan for some extra costs.
Reviews mention its comprehensive itinerary but note that the reef is not as abundant as in other regions, which is typical for Bali’s snorkeling spots. Still, many find it a worthwhile combination of cultural sights, natural beauty, and water activity.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want an action-packed day with iconic sights and snorkeling, perfect for those who enjoy a flexible, private experience.
$31.00 per person
How to Choose Your Best Shore Excursion
Selecting the right Bali shore excursion depends on your interests and schedule. If you’re short on time and want a comprehensive cultural overview with a friendly local guide, the Bali Benoa Shore Excursion is your best bet, especially since it includes tickets and personalized service.
Prefer art, craftsmanship, and a relaxed pace? The Private Ubud Art Village tour offers an intimate look at Bali’s creative world, ideal for art lovers or those wanting a deeper cultural connection.
Want to see Bali’s classics—temples, waterfalls, and snorkel spots—in one full day? The Highlights Tour from Benoa Port balances sightseeing and water fun at an affordable price, suitable for adventurous travelers.
When booking, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For example, those with limited time should prioritize the all-inclusive tour, while art aficionados might prefer the Ubud experience. Snorkelers and nature lovers will find the highlights tour appealing.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak cruise season, to ensure your preferred tour and time slot.
Final Thoughts
Bali’s shore excursions from Seminyak offer a diverse range of experiences—whether you want a cultural overview, an artistic journey, or a full-day adventure with snorkeling and waterfalls. Each of these three tours provides a unique way to experience Bali’s charm, history, and natural beauty in a limited timeframe.
For first-timers, the all-inclusive Bali Benoa Shore Excursion is an excellent, hassle-free choice. Art lovers will enjoy the personalized, creative vibe of the Ubud Art Village tour, while those eager for a bit of everything—temples, waterfalls, snorkeling—will find the Highlights Tour perfect.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early ensures a smooth and memorable Bali experience, making your cruise stop truly special.