Abstract: Indonesia is the world largest archipelagic country, with the sea covering nearly three-fourths of its land and 17,508 islands scattered across it. Aside from an abundance of natural resources, the country is rich in cultural diversity, particularly in the traditions and daily life patterns of rural communities. History proved that in the past the Indonesian people have played a major role in the development of world maritime culture. On this basis, the government has launched a sea-based development program in the form of the world maritime axis and the sea highway. The goal is to make the potential wealth of the country marine resources the primary source of income for the country economy and its people. Generally, this article aims to provide a proposed solution through sustainable tourism development based on maritime culture, by lifting traditional people boats made of wood developed into traditional cruise ships, and preserving the tradition of traditional shipbuilding as an effort to strengthen the roots of Indonesian maritime culture. This study used a SWOT analysis based on data and information on community maritime culture, traditional shipbuilding traditions, and the development of traditional cruises in traditional shipbuilding areas, to generate various development strategies. The findings can be used as input for problem-solving and decision-making processes needed by the government in formulating policies related to sustainable tourism in Indonesia.