Tourist Vessels Prohibited from Sailing to Komodo-Padar Islands Until May 17th

Tourist vessels are prohibited from sailing to Komodo Island, Padar Island, and other spots within the Komodo National Park area in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), until May 17th. The ban is due to the potential for bad weather.

The Head of the Class III Labuan Bajo Port Authority and Port Authority Office, Stephanus Risdiyanto, explained that sailing permits (SPB) for tourist vessels are only issued for trips to Rinca Island, which is one of the Komodo dragon habitats within the Komodo National Park area. Based on the BMKG’s maritime weather forecast, he said that strong winds and high waves are likely to occur in the waters of Labuan Bajo during the period of May 15-17, 2026.

“The potential wind speed is up to 19 knots from the southeast and high waves up to 2.1 meters in the southern part of the Sape Strait,” said Stephanus, Friday (May 15, 2026).

The Class III Labuan Bajo Port Authority has issued a sailing advisory to ship captains. In the advisory, captains are instructed to maintain the seaworthiness of their vessels, monitor weather forecasts independently during voyages, and take necessary actions in the event of an emergency.

In addition, captains are also reminded to conduct safety briefings before sailing. Furthermore, tourist vessels are prohibited from sailing at night and should avoid dangerous areas.

“The harbor master is authorized to postpone sailing permits (SPB) at any time if it is known that the weather forecast is unsafe for sailing,” Stephanus emphasized.