Clearer Sailing for Yachts in Bali

(12/28/2002)

The Royal Bali Yacht Club (RYBC) has received the formal endorsement from the Benoa Harbor Administrator, Pieter Nababan, of a decision by Indonesia's Minister of Sea Communications that should clear the way for a more hassle-free access to Bali's main port for visiting private yachts.

Under the terms of the new policy, private pleasure vessels weighing under 18 gross tons or less than 50 cubic meters in volume carrying less than 12 crew are required to undergo a formal clearance only at their first and last seaport call in-country. Foreign-flagged private vessels visiting Indonesia are required to obtain a Clearance Approval for Indonesian Territories (CAIT) that lists the proposed ports and dates of their visits in Indonesia. In the past, yachts have had to undergo a time-consuming in-and-out clearance at each port they visit. The new guidelines remove that requirement, requiring ships to undergo formal clearance at only the beginning and end of their Indonesian voyages.

Under the terms of the new understanding with Bali's Port Administrator, RBYC member yachts departing and returning to Bali's Benoa Harbor may sail with RBYC members on day-sails and club events without formal registration with his office.

It should be noted. however, that yachts involved in carrying paying customers on local cruises are still required to make formal clearance in and out with the Port Administrator's office.