Torobulu Port prepares four ferries for 2026 Eid homecoming rush

Kendari — The Technical Implementation Unit (UPTD) of Torobulu Port in South Konawe Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, is preparing four ferries to anticipate the surge in Eid holiday homecoming traffic in 2026.

The Acting Head of Torobulu Port UPTD, Ferima, stated when met at Torobulu on Monday that the number of vessels to be operated this year has been adjusted based on projections of increased passenger and vehicle numbers compared to previous Eid periods.

“We are preparing four ferries for the 2026 homecoming rush, three ferries for the Torobulu-Tampo route in Muna Regency, and one ferry for the Torobulu-Tondasi route in West Muna,” said Ferima.

He noted that three vessels serving the Torobulu-Tampo route are KMP Cendrawasih, KMP Nuku, and KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya. One additional ferry, KMP Pulau Rubia, has been prepared for the Torobulu-Tondasi route.

“The Tondasi route ferry can also transport passengers from Tampo, so the journey can be completed in a single trip,” he added.

Ferima explained that for the Torobulu-Tampo route, sailing frequency ranges from two to six trips per day, depending on the queue conditions of vehicles and passengers at the dock.

“If there is a surge in passengers, each ferry can be optimised for up to three additional trips to reduce congestion,” he said.

He disclosed that to ensure smooth homecoming traffic flow, the port will implement 24-hour operational services from four days before Eid through Eid day.

“Specifically on Takbir night, ticket sales counters are planned to close at 22:00 Wita, but can be extended until 24:00 Wita to serve the final departure,” he said.

Meanwhile, on the first day of Eid, ferry operations are scheduled to resume from 11:00 Wita.