Bali Tourism Operators Urge Government Action on Maritime Safety Following Spate of Accidents
Bali, Indonesia — July 10, 2025
Indonesia’s premier tourist destination, Bali, is facing growing concerns over maritime safety after a series of recent boat and ferry accidents sparked alarm among local communities and visitors alike. Tourism operators are now calling on the government to implement stronger safety measures, enhance port management, and invest significantly in maritime infrastructure to prevent future incidents.
Rising Safety Concerns Amid Increased Maritime Traffic
Bali’s tourism industry heavily relies on boat and ferry services that connect key areas such as Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan, both popular among domestic and international tourists. However, recent maritime accidents have underscored the risks associated with sea travel around the island.
Several high-profile accidents in 2025 have intensified safety discussions:
- March: A tourist boat capsized off the coast of Nusa Penida.
- June: A fast boat accident near Nusa Lembongan resulted in multiple injuries.
- July: A ferry sank on the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route — a vital marine link between Bali and neighboring Java island.
While these mishaps have not yet caused a major downturn in tourism, their frequency has raised serious concerns among tourism operators worried about the safety of visitors.
Industry Leaders Call for Urgent Government Response
I Nyoman Subrata, Secretary General of the Association of Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) Bali Chapter, pointed to regulatory gaps and inconsistent enforcement of safety protocols by marine and port authorities as key factors behind the accidents. Subrata warned, “Bali’s reputation as a safe destination is at risk if we continue to ignore these issues.”
Tourism stakeholders and local authorities agree that the government must move beyond mere appeals and establish stricter regulations, enforce oversight rigorously, and channel urgent investments into crucial ports such as Gilimanuk and Nusa Penida.
Government Pledges Improved Coordination and Enforcement
In response to these mounting concerns, Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism announced plans to enhance collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation, local governments, and search and rescue teams to bolster marine safety enforcement.
Ni Luh Puspa, Deputy Minister of Tourism, emphasized the importance of not only setting safety protocols but ensuring they are systematically implemented. “Marine tourism safety requires discipline, accountability, and consistent oversight across all operators and routes,” she stressed.
Tourism Operators Implement Independent Safety Protocols
Amid calls for stronger government action, some tour companies are proactively adopting their own safety standards. Wisnu Arimbawa, Managing Director of Good Day Tour, shared that his company has begun independently vetting ferry and boat services to guarantee client safety. “We cannot afford to be passive. Safety is our priority,” Arimbawa stated, revealing the development of internal safety protocols to exceed existing regulatory standards.
This move highlights the industry’s frustration over delays in government interventions and underscores the shared responsibility between private operators and authorities to safeguard tourists.
Local Authorities Intensify Safety Measures for Peak Season
The Bali Tourism Office is also stepping up efforts to ensure safety during the busy travel season from June through August. Wayan Sumarajaya, head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office, stressed preparedness and rapid response as key priorities. “All relevant agencies have been called upon to reinforce safety protocols and ensure readiness at critical marine entry points,” he said.
Local officials are committed to maintaining and upgrading key ports and marine routes to accommodate the summer influx of visitors while minimizing risks.
Calls for Long-Term Infrastructure Investment
Looking beyond immediate responses, tourism operators insist on a strategic, long-term approach to Bali’s maritime safety challenges. Subrata highlighted a disparity in infrastructure development: “Indonesia has invested heavily in air travel facilities, yet maritime infrastructure remains largely neglected.”
He added, “If Bali aims to be a leading global marine tourism destination, safety must be integrated into every facet of planning, operations, and oversight, rather than addressed only reactively.”
Investment in modernizing ports, implementing advanced safety systems, and reinforcing regulatory frameworks is pivotal not only for protecting travelers but also for preserving Bali’s hard-earned reputation as a premier holiday destination.
Moving Forward: Collaboration Key to Safer Seas
The series of maritime accidents has served as a wake-up call for Bali’s travel sector. While preventive measures have been initiated, industry leaders stress the need for comprehensive efforts involving operators, government entities, and local authorities to develop a safer, more reliable maritime tourism experience.
Achieving this goal will require persistent investment, stricter regulations, and unwavering commitment to safety standards across all levels.
As Bali’s tourism community rallies together, optimism remains that these necessary reforms will come swiftly to ensure the island remains both a breathtaking and safe destination for travelers worldwide.
For continued updates on Bali’s maritime safety and tourism news, stay connected with Travel And Tour World.
Tags: Bali ferry accidents, Bali Nusa Penida, bali tourism, Bali travel safety, Indonesia ferry safety, maritime safety
Add a comment