A ferry carrying over 240 people capsized in the Java Sea on Sunday, leaving dozens missing as rescue operations continue in difficult weather conditions.

A ferry named Virgo Transport 8 capsized in the Java Sea early Sunday while traveling from Surabaya, East Java, to Banjarmasin on Borneo Island. Indonesian rescue authorities confirmed that 107 people have been saved and six bodies recovered, while approximately 130 individuals remain missing. The vessel, which was carrying 243 people according to its manifest, encountered severe weather before losing contact.

Rescue Operations and Conditions

Search and rescue efforts are being coordinated by Basarnas, the national search and rescue agency, with teams utilizing eight vessels, including four navy ships, and two helicopters. Rescuers have faced significant challenges, including waves reaching heights of 2.5 to 3 metres. The vessel’s last known position was approximately 148 to 150 kilometres from its destination in Banjarmasin. Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi stated that aerial surveillance confirmed the 119-metre ferry is floating upside down but has not fully sunk. Rescue teams are concentrating their efforts around the overturned vessel, assisted by nearby tugboats and passing ships.

Vessel Details and Passenger Manifest

The Virgo Transport 8 was built in Japan in 1987 and was carrying 213 passengers and 30 crew members at the time of the incident, according to the official manifest. The ship was also transporting 89 vehicles. Officials noted that it is common for the actual number of people on board to differ from the recorded manifest in Indonesia. Families have gathered at a command post in Banjarmasin to await updates on their relatives. Authorities have maintained a whiteboard at the site to display the names of those who have been rescued.