LABUAN BAJO, Indonesia — In a move that will significantly impact travel plans, authorities have officially closed Labuan Bajo’s tourism harbor to all leisure vessels until at least Tuesday, January 6, 2026. The extended closure, enforced by the local Port and Harbor Authority (KSOP), is a direct response to severe weather warnings issued by Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).
The decision effectively suspends all tourist voyages from the gateway port to premier destinations like Komodo National Park, Padar Island, and Rinca Island. The popular pinisi schooners and speedboats that typically ferry visitors to see the Komodo dragons and iconic pink beaches will remain docked.
“The official notification has already been released by BMKG to KSOP. That is the primary consideration for KSOP in determining the closure or opening of sailing activities,” stated Stephanus Risdiyanto, Head of KSOP Class III Labuan Bajo, on Saturday. He confirmed that a formal Notice to Mariners (NtM) was issued and signed on January 2.
The closure, first implemented on December 29, 2025, is a precautionary measure based on forecasts of hazardous sea conditions, including high winds and waves. The restriction for voyages to Padar and Komodo Islands has been in place even longer, since December 26—the same day the KM Putri Sakinah tragedy occurred nearby, though officials cite weather as the sole reason for the current port shutdown.
Crucially for travelers, the timeline is fluid. “The closure could be extended or opened earlier, depending on the official weather notifications from BMKG,” Stephanus emphasized. The KSOP will not issue any Sailing Approval Letters (SPB) to tourist boats until the all-clear is given.
Implications for Bali-Based Travelers
This development is particularly relevant for the significant number of tourists and expatriates in Bali, for whom a trip to Labuan Bajo and Komodo is a frequent add-on itinerary. Travelers currently in Bali planning to fly to Labuan Bajo in the coming days should immediately contact their tour operators or accommodations. Many planned liveaboard trips, day tours, and island-hopping excursions are now on hold, with refunds or rescheduling likely necessary.
It is important to note that the ban applies specifically to tourist and leisure craft. Larger vessels, including Pelni passenger ships and public ferries, are currently exempt and continue to operate, as they are deemed to have different safety specifications for navigating in heavier seas.
The extended closure underscores the powerful and unpredictable nature of the maritime environment in eastern Indonesia, even in a globally renowned tourism hub. Authorities are taking a markedly cautious approach, prioritizing safety over tourism revenue in the wake of recent events and ongoing severe weather patterns.
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