The Class III Labuan Bajo Port Authority and Port Controller Office\n(KSOP) has prohibited scuba diving activities in the southern waters of\nthe Sape Strait, specifically the eastern part of Rinca Island within\nthe Komodo National Park, until 20 May 2026.<\/p>\n
The prohibition was implemented following the potential for moderate\nwaves of up to nearly two metres in the area. This decision is based on\nmaritime weather forecasts issued by the BMKG Maritime Station (Stamar)\nTenau Kupang.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith the potential for moderate waves of up to 1.9 metres in the\nsouthern waters of the Sape Strait, ships are advised not to conduct\ntourism activities in that area,\u201d stated the Head of Labuan Bajo Class\nIII KSOP, Stephanus Risdiyanto, on Monday (18\/5\/2026).<\/p>\n
Stephanus noted that the prohibited waters are frequently used for\ndiving excursions. Because current weather conditions are deemed unsafe,\ntourist vessels are forbidden from travelling to these locations until\nthe weather improves.<\/p>\n
KSOP Class III Labuan Bajo has also issued a maritime notice to all\nship masters. Under this notice, masters are instructed to maintain\nvessel seaworthiness and independently monitor weather forecast\ndevelopments during their voyages.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, masters are required to take necessary actions when\nfacing emergency situations and must conduct safety briefings prior to\ndeparture. KSOP also reminded vessels to avoid night sailing and to\nsteer clear of hazardous areas. Masters are also requested to notify\nother vessels in the event of dangerous weather and to seek immediate\nshelter if conditions deteriorate.<\/p>\n
Additionally, masters are advised to coordinate with the Harbour\nMaster and Basarnas (National Search and Rescue Agency) should weather\nconditions worsen.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Harbour Master has the authority to delay the issuance of\nSailing Approval (SPB) at any time if the weather forecast is deemed\nunsafe for navigation,\u201d Risdiyanto emphasised.<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/labuan-bajo-port-authority-bans-diving-in-sape-strait-until-20-may-1780917079", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }