Bali – Shipwreck Log

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.

Gelis Rauh Burned To Water’s Edge

July 17, 2014 Paul Hancock

The 72 meter long, 348 dwt ro-ro passenger ferry Gelis Rauh caught fire while in the Lombok Strait near Padangbai, Bali. The Gelis Rauh was en route to Lombok Island with 53 passengers, 13 lorries and 20 crew when fire erupted from the car deck. The fire quickly spread through the superstructure and soon engulfed the entire ferry. Uncontrolled, the fire disabled the ferry and the vessel drifted until it grounded just short of the shore. Fire boats and fire fighters operating from shore tried to contain the blaze, but it consumed the ferry down to the water’s edge. The remains of the Gelis Rauh partially sank a short time later.

Reports state all persons on board were able to abandon ship. Several people suffered minor burns and were taken to hospital for treatment. Reports state the evacuation off the vessel was slowed due to incorrect lighting on the ferry.