Indonesian ferry sinks off of Kalimantan

A ferry has sunk off of southern Kalimantan, killing 10 people. The Karya Mandiri was carrying 60 passengers from West Kalimantan to the port of Sukamara, on the coast of Central Kalimantan.

Reports say the vessel’s rudder malifunctioned, leaving it prone to capsizing. I’ve taken Indonesian ferries all over the country, and one common factor is overloading. Passenger ferries carry extra freight, and freighters allow passengers to climb on. The captains of these vessels are looking for extra money, and pay no attention to safety.

With over 17,000 islands, to watch over, you can pretty much discount being saved by the coast guard. Its always local fishermen that come to the rescue. If a large ferry capsizes, you want to be able to get out quick, that’s why I always preferred to be on the rear deck, rather than inside a cabin.

If you are planning to travel extensively around Indonesia by ferry, you might want to consider what you’d do, if you ended up in the drink. Having a surfboard would be good, or a lifejacket, if one is handy. I know it sounds dumb, but carrying a kid’s inflatable rubber ring, weighing next to nothing, could come in handy, if it helps you to stay afloat long enough, for boats to arrive.

If you have a choice, you might limit your ferry crossing to mornings, to maximize daylight, in case of an accident.