BANYUWANGI, East Java — Indonesia’s state-owned ferry operator, PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry, has issued a strong travel advisory for one of the nation’s busiest maritime crossings—the route between Bali and Java—ahead of the peak Christmas and New Year travel period. The warning comes in response to an official weather alert predicting high waves and severe conditions triggered by a developing tropical weather system.
The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reported that Tropical Cyclone Seed 93S is intensifying and could develop into a Category 2 tropical cyclone. This system is forecasted to directly impact weather dynamics, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and moderate ocean waves with heights potentially reaching 2.5 meters (over 8 feet) in key waterways, including the Selat Bali (Bali Strait).
“BMKG has issued an early warning for the potential of high waves in several Indonesian waters, including the Sunda Strait and the Bali Strait,” said Heru Widodo, President Director of ASDP. “Therefore, we urge service users to increase their vigilance.”
Safety Prioritized During Peak Travel Season
The timing of the weather alert is critical. The Bali Strait, serviced by ferries between Gilimanuk in West Bali and Ketapang in East Java, is a vital logistical and tourist artery, typically experiencing a significant surge in passenger and vehicle volume during the year-end holidays, known locally as Nataru.
Heru emphasized that passenger safety is ASDP’s foremost priority. “If weather conditions are not possible, please do not force yourself to make the crossing journey,” he stated. The company has pledged to maintain close coordination with relevant authorities and reinforce operational readiness at ports and aboard vessels.
Areas Affected and Traveler Advisory
According to the BMKG’s official release, the areas with the highest potential for rough seas include waters south of the Sunda Strait, south of the Bali Strait, and southern waters from Banten to West Nusa Tenggara.
For the international community in Bali—tourists planning island-hopping itineraries, expatriates traveling to Java, and logistics operators—this advisory necessitates careful trip planning. Travelers are strongly advised to:
- Monitor real-time updates from @infobmkg on social media or official weather apps.
- Allow for significant flexibility in travel schedules, anticipating possible delays or cancellations.
- Heed all instructions from ferry port staff and crew without exception.
ASDP has called for active cooperation from all passengers to ensure collective safety. The company’s proactive stance highlights the serious considerations required when navigating Indonesia’s rich but sometimes volatile maritime environment, especially during the holiday rush. For now, the message from authorities is clear: the beauty of the Bali Sea commands respect, and safe passage must come before all schedules.