ASDP Enhances Merak-Bakauheni Ferry Services for 2026 Nataru

Improved Operational Capacity

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has implemented significant enhancements to its ferry services on the Merak-Bakauheni route in preparation for the 2026 Christmas and New Year (Nataru) period. The key improvement is the introduction of the Express II vessel service, which enables Express services to operate from two separate piers in both Merak and Bakauheni. This new service officially commenced on Monday, December 1, 2025, marking a crucial step in ASDP's ongoing transformation efforts to improve travel efficiency and passenger comfort.

Comprehensive Preparations

The implementation of the Express II service was preceded by thorough preparations, including on-site inspections and intensive coordination between various stakeholders. These preparations involved collaboration with multiple entities, including BPTD, KSOP, INFA, GAPASDAP, vessel operators, and ASDP's Regional 2 and branch management teams. This multi-stakeholder coordination ensured that the expanded Express service could operate optimally from its inaugural day.

Strategic Operational Improvements

Rio Lasse, Director of Operations and Transformation at ASDP, emphasized that the introduction of Express II represents a significant enhancement to the company's service quality. The new operational setup is designed to create a more stable, faster, and more comfortable travel experience for passengers, particularly during the peak Nataru period. Lasse explained that operating Express services through two piers is not merely an addition of facilities but a comprehensive refinement of ASDP's operational management.

Impact on Passenger Experience

The enhanced ferry services are expected to significantly improve the travel experience for passengers during the busy year-end holiday season. By increasing operational capacity and streamlining processes, ASDP aims to reduce wait times and congestion, providing a more efficient and comfortable journey for travelers between Java and Sumatra. This improvement is particularly important given the critical role that the Merak-Bakauheni route plays in connecting these two major islands during peak travel periods.