LABUAN BAJO, Indonesia — In a decisive move prioritizing safety, Indonesian maritime authorities have extended the suspension of all marine tourism activities in the waters around Labuan Bajo, the primary gateway to Komodo National Park, until at least Thursday, January 8, 2026. The initial closure, announced earlier this week, underscores the serious and persistent weather conditions challenging the region.
The directive, issued by the Port and Harbour Authority based on Navigation Notice No. 01/MP-I/2026, explicitly states that the issuance of Sailing Approval Letters for all tourist vessels, including speedboats, is temporarily suspended. This measure is based on severe weather forecasts for the Sape Strait issued by the Maritime Meteorology Station. The closure will remain in effect “until the weather improves based on information from the Meteorological Agency.”
A Dual Focus: Tourist Safety and Critical Search Operations
This extension coincides with and is intrinsically linked to an ongoing, high-stakes search and rescue mission. As widely reported, the search continues for the two young sons of Valencia CF coach Fernando Martín Carreras, who remain missing after the KM Putri Sakinah sank on December 26. Their father was recovered on January 4. The official search for the boys, aged 9 and 10, has been extended to January 7.
The same treacherous weather systems complicating and heightening the risks of that exhaustive rescue operation are the precise reason for the broader tourism shutdown. The decision highlights the authorities’ dual, non-negotiable priorities: preventing further incidents by ensuring no tourist vessels are exposed to danger, while simultaneously supporting the perilous conditions under which search teams are operating.
Implications for Travelers
For global tourists and expatriates in Bali planning trips to Komodo National Park, this announcement means all boat-based tours—including diving, snorkeling, and island-hopping excursions—are effectively canceled through January 8.
Travelers are strongly advised to contact their tour operators directly for rescheduling or refunds and to check their travel insurance policies for disruption coverage. Airlines and hotels in Labuan Bajo may also offer increased flexibility during this period.
Protocols and Next Steps
The official notice outlines critical safety protocols for any vessels already in the area, mandating that captains seek safe anchorage, maintain communication, and coordinate closely with authorities.
The situation will be reassessed daily, with updates contingent on revised forecasts. The collective hope is for the weather to abate, allowing not only for the safe resumption of one of Indonesia’s most spectacular tourist experiences but also for search teams to continue their critical mission under less hazardous conditions.
Hey Bali News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates. Travelers are urged to follow official channels for the latest information.
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