KM Feronia Capsizes off Labuan Bajo, One Passenger Missing
The pinisi vessel KM Feronia capsized in the waters off Batu Bolong, Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, at around 3.02pm Central Indonesian Time on Tuesday (13 October).
The vessel was travelling from Labuan Bajo to Rinca Island with 30 people on board: 25 passengers and five crew members.
According to initial information, KM Feronia had been carrying passengers who had just finished diving in the waters around Manta Point. As it passed near Tatawa Besar, the vessel was struck by a strong current and capsized.
The incident is thought to have been linked to the captain’s delayed response to the strong current during the highest tide. However, the precise cause is still under investigation.
The Labuan Bajo Class III Port Authority Office (KSOP) said its team had rescued 29 people—five crew members and 24 passengers—and taken them to Marina Waterfront Pier for further assistance.
One other passenger has been reported missing and is believed to be trapped inside the vessel. Search and evacuation operations are continuing, with the safety of both victims and responders being prioritised.
Stephanus Risdiyanto, head of the Labuan Bajo Class III KSOP, gave an official account of the response.
“We are continuing the search and evacuation efforts for the one passenger who has not yet been found, together with all relevant agencies,” Stephanus told CNN Indonesia on Tuesday (13 October).
“We urge all captains and crew passing near the incident site to remain vigilant, particularly in response to changing currents and tides. Safety at sea is our top priority,” he added.
He also said that the Kupang Class II Type A Navigation District had issued an official notice to mariners.
“We have issued a Notice to Mariners urging vessels near the site to exercise greater caution and be ready to provide assistance if needed. The cause of the incident remains under investigation, and we will share further developments based on confirmed information from the scene,” he added.