davita wroteThis should be good news for some arriving by cruise ship. Approximately 60 cruise ships planned to arrive at Benoa this cruise year and I personally know some passengers from Canada who were pissed-off they're expected to pay US$35, just to stretch their legs ashore for a few hours. It isn't the money...it's the principle.
New information I learned yesterday.
My friend arrived on a cruise ship from Sydney...he was ashore just to have lunch and catch-up with a couple of us ex-colleagues. His wife stayed on board as she needs a walker and access to the lifeboat ferry from the ship, which was anchored in Benoa bay, is restrictive.
I'd previously advised him he'd need a VOA (US$35) which he accepted but, during conversation, I found ALL passengers pay for VOA whether they step ashore or not. My friend was advised that Indonesia charges for just entering their territorial waters. I've never heard of anything so absurd...I thought there were International treaties on transiting other countries airspace or sealanes.
Anyone have information on whether other countries apply a similar scam. Also, wonder whether there will be discrimination when RI cancels the VOA for all those other country nationals (excluding Australians).... if they arrive on a cruise.
