ASDP again suspends long-distance ferry crossings due to severe weather

Kupang — PT Angkutan Sungai, Danau dan Penyeberangan (ASDP) Indonesia Ferry, Kupang Branch, East Nusa Tenggara Province, has announced continued closure of all long-distance shipping routes in the region due to severe weather conditions.

“Crossings to a number of areas in East Nusa Tenggara remain suspended because of bad weather,” stated Ramlan Iyang, Business Manager of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry Kupang Branch, in Kupang on Tuesday, regarding the temporary closure of ASDP ferry routes operating from Kupang to various destinations in East Nusa Tenggara and vice versa.

He explained that the temporary suspension follows a sailing prohibition issued by the Kupang Port Authority and Harbour Master’s Office (KSOP) due to high waves.

The suspended ferry routes include Kupang-Larantuka, Kupang-Lembata, Kupang-Kalabahi, and Kupang-Rote services.

However, the Kupang-Hansisi (Semau Island) route remains operational, as this is a short-distance crossing less affected by severe weather conditions such as high waves.

“For crossings to and from Hansisi, we assess the weather conditions, and if feasible we proceed; if not, we suspend services,” he said.

Wave heights ranging from 2.5 to 4 metres are expected from Tuesday 10 March through Friday 13 March this week.

Vessel operators have been advised to refrain from sailing and to take precautions to prevent maritime accidents.

Wave heights of 2.5 to 4 metres are predicted to occur in the West Sumba Strait, Sawu Sea, and southern Sumba waters.