Recent maritime accidents around Bali have raised alarms among tourism operators, prompting calls for enhanced vessel safety standards and better port supervision. Notable incidents include a tourist boat capsizing in Nusa Penida, a fast boat accident near Nusa Lembongan, and a ferry sinking on the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route. While cancellations remain low, concerns are mounting, particularly regarding the ferry-dependent overland routes between Java and Bali.
I Nyoman Subrata, secretary general of the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) Bali Chapter, attributes these incidents to regulatory failures and inconsistent enforcement by marine authorities. He warns that repeated accidents could tarnish Bali’s reputation as a safe destination. Subrata urges the government to implement stricter regulations and invest in critical ports.
In response to safety concerns, the Ministry of Tourism is coordinating with the Ministry of Transportation and local governments to improve marine safety enforcement. Ni Luh Puspa, deputy minister of tourism, emphasized the need for discipline and accountability among operators. Meanwhile, local agencies are reinforcing safety protocols ahead of the peak travel season.
Tourism operators hope that addressing systemic gaps in maritime safety will prevent future incidents. Subrata notes that while investments in air travel have surged, maritime infrastructure requires equal attention to ensure Bali’s status as a premier marine tourism destination.
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