At Least Four Dead, Dozens Missing After Indonesian Ferry Sinks En Route to Bali

At least four people have died and 30 remain missing after a ferry sank late Wednesday night in rough seas while en route to Bali from Indonesia’s main island, Java. The incident occurred near the Ketapang-Gilimanuk crossing — one of the country’s busiest maritime routes.

The ferry, carrying 65 passengers and crew, went down shortly before midnight amid heavy winds and waves up to 2.5 meters high. So far, 31 survivors have been rescued, according to Indonesia’s national search and rescue agency. Among the survivors was Eka Toniansyah, who recounted how the vessel suddenly tilted and sank. His father was among the deceased.

Rescue operations were initially hindered by severe weather but have since resumed with improved conditions. A team of 54 personnel, including navy and police forces, along with helicopters and rescue boats, have been deployed. Officials said a larger vessel from Surabaya has also joined the search mission.

Authorities are investigating whether more people may have been aboard than the 65 listed on the ferry’s manifest — a common issue in Indonesia due to inconsistent passenger records.

The ferry was reportedly transporting 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks, but it is unclear if any foreign nationals were among the passengers.

President Prabowo Subianto, currently in Saudi Arabia, ordered an emergency response, while the head of the Surabaya search and rescue agency confirmed efforts to expand the search area, following the current patterns.

Marine accidents are frequent in Indonesia due to poor enforcement of safety protocols and unpredictable sea conditions. The nation, made up of roughly 17,000 islands, has seen numerous similar tragedies, including the 2018 Sumatra ferry disaster in which more than 150 people drowned.