Tourist Vessels Banned from Komodo Island Until 31 May 2026: Why?

Labuan Bajo, KOMPAS.com - The Class III Port Authority and Maritime Safety Office (KSOP) in Labuan Bajo has issued a navigation advisory on Friday evening (29 May 2026). The advisory concerns restricted shipping zones and anticipates weather developments from the Indonesian Meteorological Agency (BMKG). KSOP Labuan Bajo Chief Stephanus Risdiyanto stated that the shipping restrictions are due to potential waves up to 2.3 metres in the southern Sape Strait and Komodo National Park waters on 30-31 May 2026. “Only vessels engaged in tourism activities will receive a sailing permit (SPB) for Rinca Island,” he added. Rinca Island is deemed safe, located approximately 12 nautical miles (22 kilometres) from Labuan Bajo across the sea. This is closer than Komodo Island, which is about 49 kilometres away. “Primarily, Rinca remains safe as its route has no narrow waters or strong currents,” Risdiyanto said. In addition to the shipping restrictions, the Class III KSOP Labuan Bajo has advised against tourism activities in Komodo National Park waters and the southern Sape Strait. Other instructions for captains include conducting safety briefings before sailing, avoiding night voyages, notifying other vessels of hazardous weather, seeking shelter during bad conditions, and coordinating with the Port Master and Basarnas if weather worsens.