Eid al-Fitr Travel Surge: Bali-Java Crossing Experiences Congestion
The flow of travelers heading home for Eid al-Fitr is increasing on the Bali-Java crossing, with over 200,000 passengers having made the journey as of March 15, 2026. While passenger numbers are still lower than last year, significant congestion is building, particularly for two-wheeled vehicles.
Increased Traffic and Ferry Operations
According to Arief Eko Kurniansjah, General Manager of ASDP Ketapang Branch, the surge in travelers began approximately seven days before Eid al-Fitr. To manage the increased demand, PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry is operating 35 ferries around the clock on the Ketapang–Gilimanuk route as reported by Indo Shipping Gazette. This is an increase from the usual 28 ferries.
The company has implemented an “arrive-unload-depart” (TBB) scheme, where ferries unload cargo at Ketapang Port and immediately return to Gilimanuk without loading new vehicles, to expedite the process. Currently, 11 ferries are utilizing this scheme according to Kompas.id.
Passenger and Vehicle Statistics
Cumulative data from March 12 to March 15, 2026, shows that over 200,000 passengers, more than 35,000 motorcycles, and around 17,000 slight vehicles have crossed through Gilimanuk Port. Motorcycle traffic has seen a significant increase, up 32 percent compared to the same period last year, while four-wheeled vehicle traffic is up approximately 11 percent as reported by Kompas.id.
Congestion and Government Response
Travelers are reporting significant delays, with some experiencing waits of over 10 hours. One traveler, Kholik, reported waiting over 10 hours after departing from Canggu, Bali. Another traveler, Heri, stated the vehicle queue stretched over 30 kilometers, with traffic at a standstill for several hours between 3 AM and 9 AM. Chaotic traffic conditions, including vehicles overtaking in the queue, are exacerbating the congestion.
Deputy Minister of Transportation Suntana inspected the congestion on March 15, 2026, and held a coordination meeting with port authorities to expedite the flow of vehicles from Bali to Java.
Ferry Fleet Adjustments
ASDP plans to add larger ferries, around 2,000 Gross Tonnage (GT), to the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route to increase vehicle capacity. The total number of operating ferries will likely remain around 35, but the fleet composition will be adjusted to include more large-sized vessels as stated by Indo Shipping Gazette.
Upcoming Disruptions
The flow of vehicles from Bali to Java is expected to continue increasing until March 17, 2026, before ferry services are temporarily suspended from March 18 to March 20, 2026, due to Nyepi.