Four dead, 38 missing after ferry sinks in Bali Strait

INDONESIA: A ferry carrying dozens of passengers and vehicles sank in the Bali Strait late on Wednesday night (2 July), leaving four people dead and 38 others missing, as search and rescue efforts continue amid rough sea conditions.

The vessel, Kapal Motor Penyeberangan (KMP) Tunu Pratama Jaya, had departed from Ketapang Port in Banyuwangi, East Java, at 10:56 p.m. local time.

It was en route to Gilimanuk Port in Jembrana, Bali, but reportedly sank just 25 minutes later, around 11:20 p.m.

The incident was first reported by a harbour patrol officer stationed in Gilimanuk waters.

Banyuwangi SAR coordinator Wahyu Setiabudi confirmed that the ferry had sent a distress signal shortly before it capsized.

Suspected leak caused capsizing

According to local media outlet detikjatim, initial investigations suggest the vessel began sinking due to a suspected leak in the engine room, which caused it to overturn.

Preliminary manifest data indicates the ferry was carrying 65 people—comprising 53 passengers and 12 crew members—as well as 22 vehicles.

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) immediately launched a rescue operation, deploying a rigid inflatable boat for initial sweeps. The SAR vessel KN Permadi was also sent to support the mission.

As of Thursday (3 July), 27 people had been found—23 rescued alive and four confirmed dead.

The bodies of the deceased have been transported to Negara General Hospital in Bali, while survivors are receiving medical treatment at the Gilimanuk port area.

“We are still searching for 38 others,” said Nanang Sigit, head of the Surabaya SAR Office and SAR Mission Coordinator.

Harsh weather hampers rescue efforts

Search efforts have been significantly hampered by severe weather, including waves up to 2.5 metres high, strong winds, and shifting currents in the Bali Strait.

Banyuwangi Police Chief Rama Samtama Putra said many survivors were found at dawn. Some had reached shore using lifeboats, while others reportedly swam to safety.

“All victims currently rescued are being treated at the port of the state-run ferry company in Gilimanuk, Bali,” he said, adding that not all survivors have been able to recount their experiences, as many remain under medical care.

National response and ongoing operations

Captain Purgana, head of the Class III Port Authority and Harbormaster Office of Tanjungwangi, said 10 vessels are currently involved in the operation, with more joining despite the difficult conditions.

“The search is now focused on the southern part of the Bali Strait due to constantly changing currents and extreme weather,” he said.

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) have also deployed 80 soldiers to assist in the search.

Personnel have been dispatched to various coastal areas, particularly those believed to be along the victims’ likely drift path.

President Prabowo Subianto, who is currently on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, has ordered an immediate emergency response after being informed of the tragedy, according to Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya on Thursday (3 July).

Search and rescue operations remain ongoing.