We caught up with Ketut Gede Susila, Cruise Manager at Destination Asia Indonesia, to explore the evolving cruise and expedition landscape in the region. With extensive experience designing immersive voyages, he shares insights on rising trends in expedition cruising, the integration of sustainability and community-based tourism across operations, and his vision for the future of Indonesia’s cruise industry.
What major trends are you currently seeing in the cruise industry across Indonesia?
We’re seeing a clear rise in demand for expedition-style cruises, particularly with smaller vessels exploring remote destinations like Komodo National Park, Raja Ampat, and the islands of the Banda Sea. Bali remains the major hub for cruise tourism in Indonesia, but many travellers returning to the island are now seeking deeper, more adventurous experiences, something that expedition cruising is uniquely positioned to offer.
To meet this growing demand, we launched Expeditions by Destination Asia earlier this year. The response has been incredible, and we now have two full-time dedicated staff leading this division, focusing on developing new experiences and sailing aboard our clients’ ships to ensure we deliver truly immersive adventures.
How have passenger expectations for shore excursions changed in recent years?
Guests now crave genuine cultural immersion rather than generic sightseeing, seeking meaningful connections with local communities and authentic storytelling. Operating in remote areas means understanding and respecting local cultural sensitivities. As dedicated ‘Destination Stewards,’ we build strong relationships with these communities and guide how to engage responsibly, ensuring experiences are both enriching for guests and respectful to the destinations.
Are there any emerging ports or destinations in Indonesia that you think will become more important for cruise calls?
Golo Mori is a rapidly developing tourism area near Labuan Bajo. The scenic photos showcase its convention center, amphitheater, natural landscapes, and coastal panorama. For smaller ships that have time to explore the region in more detail, islands within the Komodo National Park and East Nusa Tenggara can be accessed from Golo Mori.
Looking ahead, what opportunities do you see for Indonesia to grow as a leading cruise destination in Asia?
Indonesia’s vast archipelago with over 17,000 islands is perfectly suited for small-ship and expedition cruises. Regions like Raja Ampat, Banda Sea, Alor, and Wakatobi offer pristine waters, world-class diving, and unique cultural encounters.
In addition to Bali, which is the main port for Indonesia, homeporting endeavours have expanded to Jakarta, and we expect other ports such as Semarang and Surabaya in the future.
What are the key factors that make a smooth port turnaround in Indonesia?
The key to a smooth port turnaround in Indonesia lies not only in infrastructure, but in building trust among all stakeholders, providing clear instructions and guidance, and ensuring a strong team environment. When port authorities, cruise operators, ground handlers, and local communities trust each other, operations run with less friction and faster problem-solving.
How does your team work with local authorities and communities to ensure seamless operations for cruise lines and their guests?
Our team works hand in hand with the authorities and communities, building trust so everyone feels confident and respected throughout the operation. We keep communication open and consistent, sharing clear guidance and updates to make sure port officials, ground handlers, and community partners are all on the same page with what the cruise line needs. This way, everyone works smoothly together and the experience runs seamlessly for guests.
What measures are taken to ensure safety, efficiency, and guest satisfaction during turnarounds and port calls?
To keep turnarounds and port calls safe, efficient, and smooth for guests, we start with a solid risk management plan that’s shared with the whole team so everyone knows what to expect. Each person understands their agreed roles and assignments, which helps avoid confusion and keeps things on track. We also keep communication open at all times, so if something comes up, it’s easy to sort it out quickly.
How is sustainability influencing cruise operations and shore excursions in Indonesia?
Sustainability is shaping cruise tourism in Indonesia, with a focus on eco-friendly infrastructure, conservation-led excursions, and meaningful community engagement, all aimed at supporting growth while protecting fragile ecosystems and cultural heritage. At Cruise Asia, we’ve replaced single-use plastic water bottles with glass bottles and switched from regular tissues to bamboo-based ones that decompose naturally.
We are certified by Travelife and a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, and ensure our shore excursions meet their strict sustainability standards. We also partner with village cooperatives to design excursions that ensure the communities we visit benefit directly from cruise calls.
What is your favourite part of your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is getting to connect with people, especially those from different cities across Indonesia. With so many islands and each one having its own unique culture and vibe, every interaction feels like a new learning experience. Engaging with people from different backgrounds helps me grow; it makes me more open, adaptable, and better at keeping good cooperation going. It’s those connections that make the job not just work, but something meaningful and fun.
What are some of the most popular shore excursions in Indonesia right now?
In Bali, guests can explore Ubud’s cultural heart, wandering through rice terraces, artisan villages, and bustling markets, before visiting Tirta Empul Temple, famous for its holy spring, and finishing with a colorful Balinese dance performance. In Java, Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple and a UNESCO site, offers breathtaking carvings, giant stupas, and views of Mount Merapi.
Sulawesi’s Toraja highlands showcase unique traditions, from iconic tongkonan houses to cliffside graves and rich ancestral rituals. Sumbawa adds adventure at Teluk Saleh, or ‘Whale Shark Bay,’ where visitors can swim alongside these gentle giants. And in Raja Ampat, it’s all about island-hopping, snorkeling vibrant reefs, and connecting with local Papuan communities.
What is your favourite place to travel to in your country and why?
For me, Bali will always be my favorite place to travel to in Indonesia. Even though so many other parts of the country are stunning and mesmerizing in their own ways, Bali really has it all packed into one small island. You can go from exploring beautiful beaches and vibrant underwater life to discovering rich culture, traditional ceremonies, and breathtaking temples, then switch gears and enjoy modern cafés, nightlife, and world-class resorts. It’s that perfect blend of nature, culture, modern comfort, and adventure that makes Bali feel complete.
For more information about Indonesia email our team at [email protected]
