KLUNGKUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – Authorities overseeing maritime transport in Nusa Penida have confirmed that only one fast boat pier operating on the Kusamba–Nusa Penida route currently holds a complete operational permit, while other docking facilities remain under review.
The clarification was delivered by the Head of the Class II Nusa Penida Port Management Unit (UPP), Ni Luh Putu Eka Suyasmin, who said the issue relates specifically to permits for docking infrastructure rather than the vessels themselves.
According to Suyasmin, among several operators serving the busy crossing route from Kusamba in Klungkung to Nusa Penida Island, only the Kampung Kusamba pier operated by fast boat company The Angkal has received official authorization.
“For docking facilities, only The Angkal’s pier currently has a permit, while the others are still in the process,” Suyasmin said on Wednesday (March 11).
Despite the ongoing licensing process for some piers, she emphasized that all fast boats operating along the route have met seaworthiness requirements.
The vessels undergo routine maintenance and annual docking inspections, while ship documentation is regularly updated through the Harbor Master and Port Authority Office (KSOP) in Padangbai.
“The vessels themselves are seaworthy. They undergo annual docking and documentation renewal through KSOP Padangbai,” she explained.
Looking ahead, the Klungkung Regency Government plans to develop a new port facility in Pesinggahan, which could provide a more organized solution for maritime transport between mainland Bali and Nusa Penida.
The planned port is expected to accommodate fast boat services currently operating from Kusamba and provide more structured docking infrastructure for operators.
For years, traditional community ports in Kusamba including Tribuana Port, Banjar Bias, and Kampung Kusamba have served as key maritime gateways connecting Bali with Nusa Penida.
The fast boat routes from these ports play a vital role not only for local residents but also for the transport of goods and the steady flow of tourists visiting the island.
Officials say improved port infrastructure and clearer licensing for docking facilities are important to ensure maritime safety and maintain reliable connectivity between Bali and Nusa Penida.
If the new port project moves forward, authorities hope it will help streamline fast boat operations while providing legal certainty for docking facilities used by transport operators.