Survivors Rescued as Search Continues in Indonesian Waters

Bali, Indonesia – July 3, 2025
At least five people have died and dozens remain missing after a ferry sank off the coast of Indonesia’s popular tourist destination Bali, according to rescue authorities. The vessel was en route from Banyuwangi, East Java, to Bali when it sank late Wednesday night.

The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) confirmed that 31 survivors have been rescued so far. A major search operation is still underway, involving boats and helicopters, as 34 people remain unaccounted for.

Ferry Sank Following Engine Trouble and Bad Weather

The ferry, carrying 53 passengers and 12 crew members, encountered engine trouble before it capsized at 23:20 local time (15:35 GMT) on Wednesday. According to local media, poor weather conditions may have also contributed to the disaster.

“About three minutes after the ship started rolling, it capsized,” said Bejo Santoso, a survivor who jumped from the vessel just in time.
“I still had time to jump and grab a life jacket.”

Another survivor, Imron, recounted that the ferry tilted sharply three times before capsizing, allowing seawater to flood the passenger cabin. He escaped through a gap in the ferry and was later rescued by a fisherman.

Rescue Operation Underway, President Orders Emergency Response

President Prabowo Subianto, currently on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, has ordered an immediate emergency response to support rescue efforts.

Search and rescue teams have been deployed from Surabaya and Banyuwangi, while ambulances and local volunteers have gathered along the coastlines awaiting further updates.

Busy Maritime Route Between Java and Bali

The route between Java and Bali is one of Indonesia’s busiest ferry routes, used daily by thousands of locals and tourists. The region is known for frequent marine accidents, often blamed on poor safety enforcement and overloaded vessels.

In March 2025, an Australian tourist died after another boat carrying 16 people capsized off Bali. Indonesia, with over 17,000 islands, faces ongoing challenges in ensuring maritime safety across its vast archipelago.

Photos Show Ongoing Rescue and Community Vigil

Photos published by Antara News Agency show ambulances lining the coast, residents praying, and emergency crews preparing rescue boats. Families of the missing have gathered by the shoreline in hopes of news.

Investigation Launched Into Cause of Sinking

Authorities have launched an investigation into the exact cause of the incident. Early reports suggest a combination of engine malfunction and severe weather conditions may have led to the vessel’s failure.

The ferry operator has not yet issued an official statement.

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