What Happened—And Is It Still Safe to Travel by Fast Boat?
In early July 2025, news of a ferry sinking between Java and Bali shocked travelers and sparked fresh concerns about boat safety in Indonesia. Many tourists planning to visit Bali’s nearby islands—like Gili, Nusa Penida, or Lombok—are now asking:
“Is it still safe to take a fast boat?”
Let’s break down exactly what happened—and what it means for your trip.
⚠️ The Facts: Ferry Disaster in Bali Strait
On July 3, 2025, the KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya ferry sank roughly 30 minutes after leaving Ketapang Port in East Java. The ship was on its way to Gilimanuk Port in Bali, a short 5-kilometer crossing.
🚢 Who was on board?
- 53 passengers
- 12 crew members
- 22 vehicles (including 14 trucks)
💔 The outcome:
- 4 passengers confirmed dead
- 23 survivors rescued, many of them unconscious after drifting for hours in rough seas
- Dozens still missing at the time of rescue operations
Rescuers worked through the night using nine boats, battling up to 2-meter-high waves, according to Banyuwangi police chief Rama Samtama Putra.
⛴️ Ferry vs. Fast Boat—Know the Difference
This tragic event involved a vehicle ferry, not a typical fast boat used by tourists.
| Ferry (like KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya) | Fast Boats (Bali island transfers) |
|---|---|
| Carries trucks, cars, and passengers | Passenger-only, no vehicles |
| Runs between Ketapang (Java) and Gilimanuk (Bali) | Runs from Padang Bai / Sanur / Serangan to Gili, Nusa Penida, Lembongan |
| Larger, slower vessel | Small, high-speed boats |
🌊 Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Indonesia is an island nation with 17,000+ islands, where boats are essential transport. Unfortunately, ferry accidents are not uncommon due to:
- Overloading
- Poor maintenance
- Changing sea conditions
- Lack of safety enforcement on some ferries
This is not the same system as the fast-boat tourist routes, which are typically better regulated—especially after recent improvements in 2024–2025.
🛥️ Are Fast Boats Still Safe?
Yes—but choose wisely.
Fast boats between Bali, Gili, and Nusa Penida are still widely used by locals and tourists. Operators follow stricter safety measures than many of the older ferries. They also cancel departures during storms, unlike some ferry routes.
✅ Here’s How to Stay Safe:
| Do this | Why |
|---|---|
| Book only with licensed fast boat companies | Regulated and safety-checked |
| Check the weather forecast | Avoid travel during storms |
| Wear your life jacket (always provided) | Basic safety rule |
| Avoid harbor hawkers selling last-minute tickets | They may use unsafe operators |
🎟️ We Help You Book Safely
We have researched the most trusted fast boat operators for routes to Gili Islands, Nusa Penida, and Lembongan. If weather conditions are unsafe, trips are delayed—not forced. –> Find Tickets Here!
🧭 The Bottom Line
- The recent sinking near Bali involved a car ferry, not fast boats.
- Fast boat services for tourists are still considered safe, with hundreds of successful trips daily.
- It’s normal to feel concerned—but with the right operator and conditions, your island trip can still be smooth and safe.
Want help choosing the best fast boat operator or book your ticket with safety in mind?
We’re happy to help. Just reach out.
