Indonesia Closes Two Most Popular Cruise Islands After Major Boat Accident

Two of Indonesia’s most popular cruise islands, Padar and Komodo in Komodo National Park, East Nusa Tenggara, have been temporarily closed to visitors as the weather could worsen, per local authorities.

The decision came after a boat accident on Friday evening when adverse weather observations were also recorded from the monitoring post on Padar Island.

Stephanus Risdiyanto, head of the office, said that the sailing permit service for the Padar-Komodo route will be suspended until conditions improve.

The ban also aims to help in the search and rescue of 4 passengers who are still missing from the sunken ship.

Seven of the 11 guests on board were saved, including 2 from Spain, a tour guide and 4 crew members.

3 survivors were safely evacuated from Labuan Bajo, while the other 4 were rescued by another team.

Risdiyanto urged ships in Labuan Bajo and Komodo National Park waters to monitor forecasts and early warnings from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) until January 1, 2026.

He added that there could be high waves, strong currents and powerful winds.

He also advised ship captains to ensure that their vessels were seaworthy.

In case someone encounters bad weather, they should seek sheltered areas and inform harbour authorities and the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) if needed, he added.

Source: Maritime Shipping News