Ferry Tragedy Near Bali: 4 Dead, 38 Missing as Search Efforts Continue

Fri Oct 17 2025 10:58:32 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A ferry disaster en route to Bali results in casualties and ongoing rescue efforts amid challenging sea conditions.

Search and rescue teams in Indonesia are currently engaged in efforts to locate 38 individuals who went missing after a ferry capsized while traveling to the popular tourist destination of Bali. The ill-fated vessel was carrying 65 passengers, including 12 crew members, when it sent out a distress signal shortly after departing from Java. Four bodies have been recovered thus far, and various local fishermen and rescue boats are battling sea conditions to assist in the search.

On Wednesday night, the ferry, KMT Tunu Pratama Jaya, left its port on Java around 11 p.m. but sank approximately 15 minutes later after declaring an emergency. By Thursday morning, rescuers had successfully saved 23 people from the water, while families anxiously awaited news at the port in Banyuwangi, East Java. Ferry accidents are not uncommon in Indonesia's extensive archipelago, with this incident marking the second ferry sinking near Bali this month, raising concerns about maritime safety as Indonesia sees millions of tourist visits annually.

This situation is still developing, and rescue efforts continue amid hopes for more survivors.