Ferry Traffic Up 9 Per Cent as ASDP Optimises 15 National Routes for Eid Holiday
PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry projects that passenger movements through its ferry services during the 2026 Eid holiday transport period will reach approximately 5.8 million passengers and 1.4 million vehicles across major routes throughout Indonesia.
This figure represents an increase compared to the same period in the previous year. Passenger movements are estimated to rise by approximately 9.4 per cent, whilst the number of vehicles is projected to increase by 9.3 per cent.
The Director of Operations and Transformation at ASDP, Rio Lasse, stated that the anticipated surge in mobility has been addressed through various operational preparations to ensure ferry services remain optimal during the Eid holiday period.
He explained that the Eid transport period represents an important opportunity for ferry services due to increased population movement as citizens return to their hometowns.
According to Rio during the Media Gathering on Preparations for 2026 Eid Transport, the company ensures all operational elements have been well prepared, ranging from fleet readiness to facility quality and services at ports.
Nationally, ASDP currently operates 320 ferry routes comprising 91 commercial routes and 229 pioneer routes. These operations are supported by 222 vessels operating through 37 ports managed by 27 branches.
The Java–Sumatra Route Remains the Busiest
The Sunda Strait route connecting Java and Sumatra is projected to remain the busiest route during the Eid period.
On the Merak Port to Bakauheni Port route, the number of passengers is projected to reach 1.56 million people with approximately 371,000 vehicles.
Meanwhile, the return flow from Sumatra to Java is estimated to reach 1.51 million passengers with approximately 353,000 vehicles.
For the Ketapang Port to Gilimanuk Port route, the number of passengers is predicted to reach more than 805,000 people with 217,000 vehicles. Meanwhile, the reverse flow from Bali to Java is estimated to reach 869,000 passengers with approximately 248,000 vehicles.
Enhanced Facilities and Strengthened Coordination
To anticipate the surge in holiday travellers, ASDP strengthens operational readiness through various measures, including the addition of an express berth II on the Merak–Bakauheni route, 24-hour customer service, provision of portable toilets, and improved lighting in port areas.
Coordination with various stakeholders is also strengthened through the implementation of a delaying system in buffer zones, implementation of geofencing, and the diversion of vehicle flows through alternative ports.
Introducing Child-Friendly Holiday Travel Programme
Amidst the high mobility of holiday travellers, ASDP also provides a more family-friendly travel experience through the “Child-Friendly Eid Holiday: Festive Season 2026” programme.
The programme, developed in cooperation with Dongeng Academy, features kids corners at Merak and Bakauheni Ports from seven days before to seven days after Eid.
These family-friendly areas are equipped with various educational activities such as mini playgrounds, board games, reading spaces, and creative activities for children. Additionally, goodie bags, child-friendly snacks, and interactive activity books are available to accompany passengers during their waiting periods.
Fare Discounts and Appeal to Purchase Tickets Online
As part of support for government policy, ASDP is implementing a 100 per cent subsidy on port service charges on certain routes and ports for pedestrians and regular Class II and Class IVA vehicles.
ASDP’s Finance Director, Bunga H. Oktaviyanti, stated that the subsidy aims to help the public make their holiday travel more affordable whilst supporting smooth mobility during the Eid period.
She emphasised that the company’s primary priority is ensuring operational readiness, maritime safety, and service quality remain maintained.
Meanwhile, ASDP Corporate Secretary Windy Andale urged the public to purchase tickets in advance through the Ferizy application.
Windy stressed that there are no ticket sales at ports. She also reminded the public to avoid unauthorised ticket sellers and ensure personal data is filled in accurately according to identity documents to ensure more orderly and smooth travel.