Twenty Vessels Ready to Transport Mudik Passengers from Padangbai Port to Lembar

Twenty vessels at Padangbai Port in Karangasem Regency, Bali, are prepared to operate ferry services to Lembar Port, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), during the Lebaran 2026 exodus period. All vessels are confirmed to be in good condition and seaworthy.

The Head of Service Unit (Satpel) of the Land Transportation Management Centre (BPTD) at Padangbai Port, I Ketut Sugiartono, stated that the authority had originally prepared 26 vessels to transport passengers during this year’s Lebaran holiday. However, six vessels are currently undergoing docking for repairs.

“So only 20 vessels are ready to operate from Padangbai Port to Lembar at present,” said Sugiartono on Tuesday (10 March 2026).

He explained that various preparations for the Lebaran exodus have been undertaken well in advance. The BPTD, together with relevant agencies including KSOP, ASDP, TNI, and Polri, have held several coordination meetings to discuss crossing mechanisms, vehicle inspections, traveller procedures, and other matters.

Nevertheless, no significant increase in passenger numbers crossing through Padangbai Port has been observed so far. Based on experience from previous years, passenger surge is estimated to begin approximately seven days before Lebaran.

“Passenger traffic remains steady at present, with no signs of increase yet. However, should an increase begin, we have prepared several schemes at the port,” said Sugiartono.

He expressed hope that the exodus and return journey at Padangbai Port this year will proceed safely and smoothly without any significant disruptions to travellers undertaking the crossing.

Previously, peak exodus traffic at Padangbai Port was predicted to occur on days five and four before Lebaran, specifically 16-17 March 2026.

“This is based on monitoring of exodus patterns from previous years,” said Sugiartono on Tuesday (10 March 2026).

Sugiartono noted that three days before Lebaran marks the Tawur Agung Kesanga ceremony, which is part of the Nyepi New Year observance for Hindus in Bali. This is followed by ogoh-ogoh processions on the evening of Pengrupukan.

According to Sugiartono, travellers may avoid journeys during Pengrupukan day or the day before Nyepi, as traffic flow will be congested due to the ogoh-ogoh processions.