Bali - Shipwreck Log

On the afternoon of August 5, the passenger ferry Bali Dolphin Cruise 2 capsized in the Bali Sea at the entrance of Sanur, Bali, Indonesia. The Bali Dolphin Cruise 2 was entering the harbour entrance and make a turn to port towards the dock when it was struck by a wave. The passenger ferry lost stability and rolled over. The 73 passengers and 4 crew were able to evacuate the capsized vessel and reach shore. Reports state the many passengers were taken to hospital for treatment. Two passengers perished and 1 crew member was reported as missing. Authorities launched a search and rescue operation looking for the missing crew member.

A point of clarification about Sanur Harbour which should be stated. Sanur Harbour is protected by a breakwater that requires vessels to enter the harbor at its’ northern end. If the vessel would attempt to enter the harbour too far north from the breakwater, it would require a sharp turn to port which would expose the vessel to waves from the east.

Elisabet Satu

August 7, 2024 Paul Hancock

The 90 meter long, 3639 dwt tanker Elisabet Satu (IMO: 9805128) exploded and caught fire off Manggis, Bali, Indonesia. The tanker was carrying a cargo of diesel fuel when there was an explosion in the vessel’s mess. Another explosion caused a fire to break out in the engine room. The crew attempted to extinguish the blaze, but the fire could not be contained. The Elisbet Satu sent out a distress call requesting assistance as the vessel sustained a power blackout. Nearby tugs were dispatched to the scene and were able to bring the fire under control. Five crew perished and another 15 crew were injured. Reports state the master of the Elisabet Satu was the only person on board uninjured. Three of the injured crew sustained 80% burns and were taken to hospital for treatment.

Reports state the Elisabet Satu was at anchor off Gili Tepekong Island. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. No reports of water ingress or pollution released.

Dharma Rucitra 3

June 14, 2020 Paul Hancock

On June 12, the ro-ro passenger ferry Dharma Rucitra 3 sank at Padang Bai, Bali. The Dharma Rucitra 3 had departed from Lembar, Lombok Island with passengers and vehicles and proceeded to Padang Bai. While the ferry berthed in Padang Bai, the vessel lost stability and developed a strong starboard list. Reports state the list resulted in vehicles shifting on the car deck of the Dharma Rucitra 3. Lower decks of the ferry began to suffer water ingress and the vessel began to sink by the stern. The ferry’s pumps were unable to contain the flooding and the Dharma Rucitra 3 settled by the stern.

All 60 passengers on board were safely evacuated to shore. No reports of injuries. Authorities have placed booms around the vessel to contain any pollution released. All 32 vehicles on board the Dharma Rucitra 3 were still below deck when it sank.

Some news reports have stated the ferry may had suffered a leak in the bilge causing the flooding and instability. Authorities have stated the vessel will be salvaged. An investigation into the incident is ongoing.