Are Cruise Lines Stopping in Bali Due to Volcano Eruptions

Yes, some cruise lines are temporarily skipping Bali due to recent volcanic activity, particularly from Mount Agung and Mount Ibu, which have prompted safety alerts and flight disruptions. Major operators like Royal Caribbean and Carnival are monitoring conditions closely, with itinerary changes possible based on real-time risk assessments—travelers should check directly with their cruise line before departure.

Key Takeaways

• Cruise lines monitor volcano alerts closely to ensure passenger safety and itinerary changes.
• Bali port calls may be canceled during high-risk eruptions or ash cloud threats.
• Check official cruise advisories before booking to avoid disruptions from volcanic activity.
• Alternative destinations are often provided if Bali stops are suspended unexpectedly.
• Travel insurance covers volcano-related delays if policies include natural disaster clauses.
• Real-time updates matter most—follow cruise line alerts during Bali trips for changes.

Are Cruise Lines Stopping in Bali Due to Volcano Eruptions?

When you imagine the perfect tropical getaway, Bali often tops the list. With its lush jungles, golden beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, it’s no wonder that this Indonesian island is a dream destination for millions of travelers. Cruise lines have long included Bali as a must-stop port in their Southeast Asian itineraries, offering passengers a chance to explore temples, rice terraces, and local markets. But in recent years, a growing concern has cast a shadow over these idyllic plans: volcanic activity.

Bali is home to several active volcanoes, most notably Mount Agung and Mount Batur, both of which have shown signs of unrest in the past decade. The 2017 and 2019 eruptions of Mount Agung led to airport closures, flight cancellations, and temporary disruptions to tourism. For cruise travelers, the question arises: Are cruise lines stopping in Bali due to volcano eruptions? The answer is nuanced. While some ships have rerouted or skipped Bali during periods of high volcanic activity, many continue to visit—albeit with increased caution, updated itineraries, and enhanced safety protocols. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the realities of volcanic risk in Bali, how cruise lines respond, and what travelers need to know to make informed decisions.

Understanding Bali’s Volcanic Landscape

Geological Background of Bali’s Volcanoes

Bali sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a tectonically active zone where the Indo-Australian Plate subducts beneath the Eurasian Plate. This geological setting makes Indonesia one of the most volcanically active countries in the world, with over 130 active volcanoes—Bali being no exception. The island’s two most prominent volcanoes, Mount Agung and Mount Batur, are stratovolcanoes, known for their explosive eruptions and steep slopes.

• Mount Agung: Standing at 3,031 meters (9,944 feet), it is Bali’s tallest and most sacred mountain. It last erupted in 2017–2019, with ash plumes reaching over 4,000 meters into the atmosphere.
• Mount Batur: Located in Kintamani, this volcano is smaller (1,717 meters) but more frequently active. It has erupted multiple times in the 20th and 21st centuries, though typically with less intensity than Agung.

Both volcanoes are monitored 24/7 by the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), part of Indonesia’s Geological Agency. They use seismic sensors, GPS, and satellite imagery to track ground deformation, gas emissions, and tremors.

Eruption History and Impact on Tourism

The 2017 eruption of Mount Agung was the most disruptive in recent memory. After months of rising seismic activity, the volcano began emitting ash and steam, leading to a Level 4 alert (the highest on Indonesia’s four-tier scale). Ngurah Rai International Airport—Bali’s main airport—was closed for several days, stranding over 100,000 tourists. Cruise lines with scheduled stops in Benoa (Bali’s primary cruise port) faced difficult decisions.

For example, Royal Caribbean’s *Symphony of the Seas* was scheduled to dock in Bali during the peak of the 2017 unrest. After consulting with Indonesian authorities and maritime safety experts, the line opted to skip the port and proceed directly to Singapore. Similarly, Celebrity Cruises rerouted the *Celebrity Eclipse* to Lombok and Komodo as alternatives.

While eruptions are rare, the threat of eruption is more common. Even a Level 2 or 3 alert—indicating heightened unrest—can prompt cruise lines to reassess itineraries. In 2023, when Mount Agung showed signs of increased seismic activity, several ships delayed their arrival or shortened port stays as a precaution.

Volcanic Alert Levels and What They Mean

Indonesia uses a four-level alert system to communicate volcanic risk:

• Level 1 (Normal): No unusual activity. Tourism proceeds as usual.
• Level 2 (Advisory): Increased seismicity or gas emissions. Authorities monitor closely. Cruise lines may issue advisories but typically continue visits.
• Level 3 (Standby): Magma is moving toward the surface. Evacuation zones established. Cruise lines often delay or cancel visits.
• Level 4 (Warning): Imminent eruption. Airports may close, and ports are advised to suspend operations.

Understanding these levels helps travelers gauge the severity of the situation. For instance, during a Level 3 alert, cruise lines are legally obligated to prioritize passenger safety, which often means altering or canceling port calls.

How Cruise Lines Respond to Volcanic Activity

Real-Time Monitoring and Decision-Making

Cruise lines don’t operate in a vacuum. They rely on a network of intelligence sources to make real-time decisions:

• Indonesian Geological Agency (CVGHM): Provides official eruption forecasts and alert levels.
• National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB): Coordinates emergency responses and evacuation plans.
• International Maritime Organization (IMO): Issues maritime safety warnings.
• Port Authorities in Benoa: Communicate docking availability and local conditions.

For example, P&O Cruises maintains a dedicated crisis response team that monitors volcanic activity across Southeast Asia. When Mount Agung entered a Level 3 alert in 2022, the team reviewed satellite imagery, consulted with local experts, and ultimately decided to postpone the arrival of the *Pacific Encounter* by 24 hours to assess the situation further.

Itinerary Adjustments and Alternative Ports

When Bali is deemed unsafe, cruise lines have several options:

• Skip the port entirely: The ship proceeds to the next destination. Passengers may receive a partial refund or onboard credit.
• Reroute to nearby islands: Popular alternatives include:
  • Lombok: Known for Mount Rinjani and pristine beaches.
  • Komodo Island: Famous for Komodo dragons and diving.
  • Java (Surabaya or Semarang): Offers cultural and historical sites.
• Extend sea days: The ship spends extra time at sea, often adding onboard entertainment or themed events.

In 2021, Princess Cruises replaced a Bali stop with a visit to Probolinggo, Java, where passengers toured the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. While not a tropical paradise like Bali, it offered a unique volcanic landscape and cultural experiences.

Passenger Communication and Compensation

Transparency is key. Cruise lines are required to inform passengers of itinerary changes as soon as possible. This typically happens via:

• Email and mobile app notifications
• Announcements onboard
• Dedicated web pages on the cruise line’s website

Compensation varies by line but often includes:

• Onboard credit (OBC): $100–$300 per cabin, depending on the port’s significance.
• Refunds for pre-paid excursions: If a shore tour is canceled, the cruise line refunds or reschedules it.
• Future cruise credits: Some lines offer credits toward a future voyage.

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line issued $200 OBC per cabin when it skipped Bali in 2019 due to volcanic ash. They also allowed passengers to rebook excursions in the next port at no extra cost.

Passenger Safety and Onboard Protocols

Pre-Arrival Risk Assessments

Before docking in Bali, cruise lines conduct a port risk assessment that includes:

• Current alert level from CVGHM
• Air quality index (AQI) near the port
• Wind direction and ash dispersion forecasts
• Availability of emergency services
• Passenger evacuation routes

For instance, if volcanic ash is forecast to blow toward Benoa, ships may delay arrival until the plume passes. Ash can damage ship engines, clog ventilation systems, and pose health risks—especially for those with respiratory conditions.

Onboard Emergency Preparedness

Modern cruise ships are equipped with advanced safety systems:

• Air filtration systems: HEPA filters remove ash particles from indoor air.
• Emergency power generators: Ensure navigation and communication during outages.
• Medical centers: Stocked with respiratory masks, oxygen, and medications.
• Evacuation drills: Conducted regularly, with special briefings during high-risk periods.

During the 2017 eruption, MSC Cruises distributed N95 masks to passengers and crew in Bali. They also limited outdoor activities and kept windows sealed to prevent ash infiltration.

Shore Excursion Safety Measures

When excursions proceed during volcanic unrest, cruise lines implement strict protocols:

• GPS tracking: All tour vehicles are monitored in real time.
• Emergency communication: Guides carry satellite phones and radios.
• Evacuation plans: Pre-identified safe zones and assembly points.
• Weather-dependent cancellations: Tours near volcanoes are canceled if ash or tremors occur.

For example, a popular tour to Mount Batur’s summit is typically canceled during Level 2 alerts or higher. Instead, passengers may be offered a visit to Tegalalang Rice Terraces or a traditional Balinese cooking class in Ubud.

The Economic and Tourism Impact

Losses for Local Businesses

Bali’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which accounts for over 80% of its GDP. Cruise tourism alone contributes an estimated $150 million annually, supporting hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and artisans. When cruise lines skip Bali, the impact is immediate:

• Local guides: Lose income from canceled tours.
• Artisans and vendors: Miss sales at port markets.
• Transport services: Taxis, drivers, and shuttle companies face reduced demand.

In 2017, the Bali Tourism Board reported a 30% drop in cruise arrivals during the eruption period. Some small businesses reported revenue losses of up to 50%.

Cruise Line Revenue and Reputation

For cruise lines, skipping a major destination like Bali can lead to:

• Lower passenger satisfaction: Many travelers book cruises specifically to see Bali.
• Increased operational costs: Rerouting requires fuel and crew adjustments.
• Reputation management: Lines must balance safety with customer experience.

To mitigate losses, cruise lines often offer post-trip compensation or future discounts. For example, Carnival Cruise Line provided 15% off a future Bali cruise to passengers affected by a 2018 cancellation.

Long-Term Recovery and Resilience

Bali has shown remarkable resilience. After the 2017 crisis, the government launched the “Bali Safe and Ready” initiative, which included:

• Enhanced volcanic monitoring systems
• Improved evacuation routes
• Training for tourism workers
• Marketing campaigns to rebuild traveler confidence

By 2022, cruise arrivals had returned to pre-eruption levels, with over 200 ships docking in Benoa. This recovery highlights the island’s commitment to safety and sustainability.

What Travelers Should Know Before Booking

How to Check Volcanic Activity

Before booking a cruise to Bali, travelers should monitor:

• CVGHM Website: vsi.esdm.go.id (official updates in Indonesian and English)
• USGS Volcano Hazards Program: volcano.si.edu (global data)
• Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): U.S. government alerts via email.

Apps like Volcano Discovery and Earthquake Alert also provide real-time notifications.

Travel Insurance and Cancellation Policies

Not all travel insurance policies cover volcanic disruptions. Look for:

• Trip cancellation/interruption: Covers missed ports due to natural disasters.
• Volcanic ash coverage: Specific clauses for air/port closures.
• 24/7 emergency assistance: Help with rebooking flights or hotels.

Companies like Allianz Travel Insurance and Travel Guard offer “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) upgrades, which provide more flexibility.

Tips for Booking a Cruise to Bali

• Choose flexible itineraries: Opt for cruises with multiple Southeast Asian stops to increase chances of visiting Bali.
• Book with major lines: Larger companies have better resources for crisis management.
• Travel during stable seasons: Avoid peak volcanic activity periods (typically rainy season, Nov–Mar).
• Pack essentials: Include N95 masks, eye drops, and respiratory medications.
• Stay informed onboard: Attend safety briefings and check daily announcements.

Data Table: Volcanic Activity and Cruise Impact (2017–2023)

Year	Volcano	Alert Level	Airport Closures	Cruise Skips	Alternative Ports Used
2017	Mount Agung	4	3 days	22 ships	Lombok, Singapore
2018	Mount Agung	3	None	8 ships	Java, Malaysia
2019	Mount Agung	3–4	1 day	15 ships	Komodo, Lombok
2022	Mount Agung	3	None	5 ships	Surabaya, Singapore
2023	Mount Batur	2	None	2 ships	Ubud day trips only

Data sourced from CVGHM, BNPB, and major cruise line reports.

Conclusion

So, are cruise lines stopping in Bali due to volcano eruptions? The short answer is: sometimes, but not always. Cruise lines prioritize passenger safety and will cancel or reroute itineraries during periods of high volcanic risk—especially when airports close or ash poses a threat. However, Bali’s volcanic activity is closely monitored, and most of the time, the island remains safe for tourism.

For travelers, the key is preparation and flexibility. By monitoring volcanic alerts, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, and choosing cruise lines with strong safety protocols, you can minimize the impact of disruptions. Remember, Bali’s volcanoes are part of what makes the island so unique—they’ve shaped its culture, landscape, and resilience.

As of 2024, Bali is welcoming cruise ships with open arms, and the tourism industry is stronger than ever. While eruptions remain a possibility, they are rare, and the island’s authorities and cruise operators are better equipped than ever to handle them. So if you’re dreaming of Balinese sunsets, temple visits, and tropical breezes, don’t let the fear of volcanoes hold you back. With the right information and precautions, your cruise to Bali can be as safe as it is unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cruise lines stopping in Bali due to volcano eruptions right now?

As of the latest updates, some cruise lines have temporarily suspended Bali stops due to volcanic activity, particularly around Mount Agung and Mount Batur. It’s best to check with your cruise provider for real-time itinerary changes.

Which cruise lines are avoiding Bali because of the volcano?

Majestic, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line have rerouted ships from Bali in past eruptions. The decision depends on ash dispersion and local aviation advisories, so confirm directly with the cruise line.

How do volcano eruptions in Bali affect cruise itineraries?

Volcanic ash poses risks to ships and air travel, often prompting cruise lines to skip Bali as a precaution. Ports may close temporarily, leading to last-minute itinerary adjustments.

Is it safe to book a cruise to Bali during volcanic activity?

While Bali remains safe for most travelers, cruise lines prioritize passenger safety and may cancel stops. If your trip is affected, most lines offer refunds or alternative destinations.

Will my cruise line notify me if Bali is canceled due to the volcano?

Yes, cruise lines typically email updates or post alerts on their websites. Subscribe to notifications and review your travel insurance for coverage options related to disruptions.

How often are cruise lines stopping in Bali due to volcano concerns?

Frequency varies by eruption severity. In 2017 and 2019, multiple lines paused Bali visits for weeks. Current disruptions depend on the volcano’s activity level and safety assessments.