The number of international cruise ships and luxury yachts visiting Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), saw a remarkable increase in the first half of 2025.
According to the Class II Immigration Office TPI Labuan Bajo, a total of 45 foreign cruises and yachts entered Labuan Bajo waters between January and June 2025. This figure already surpasses the total number of visits in 2024, which stood at 42 vessels.
Head of the Class II Immigration Office TPI Labuan Bajo, Charles Christian Mathaus, said the surge in arrivals reflects the growing interest of travelers in premium marine tourism experiences in Labuan Bajo, especially during the international holiday season.
“The trend of vessel visits shows a significant rise from April to May 2025, reaching its peak in May with 15 ships,” Charles said on Thursday (July 3, 2025), as quoted by Detik.
Charles emphasized that the arrival of luxury cruise ships and yachts not only highlights the rising activity in marine tourism but also reinforces Labuan Bajo’s position as a world-class nautical destination.
“These luxury vessels coming to our shores are an indicator of the area’s growing appeal. But at the same time, they require our immigration services to be fully prepared to deliver optimal supervision and service,” he explained.
All visiting ships underwent comprehensive immigration inspections conducted directly onboard by immigration officers. These checks included verifying travel documents, reviewing stay permits, and cross-checking data for passengers and crew members.
“Immigration stands at the frontline to ensure that every vessel entering our waters operates within a clear, safe, and orderly legal framework. We carry out all inspections professionally, efficiently, and with a commitment to hospitality as the first face of immigration services,” Charles noted.
He also stressed that a sense of security and legal certainty are essential pillars for developing sustainable tourism in the region.
“Tourism is built on trust. Our duty is to nurture that trust by providing a sense of safety and reliable services. Because when tourists feel secure, they are more likely to return,” he said.
Labuan Bajo’s growing popularity as a premium marine tourism hub has led to a surge not only in vessels but also in visitor numbers. Between January and June 2025 alone, an impressive 23,622 passengers and crew members arrived or departed through cruise ships and yachts anchored in Labuan Bajo’s waters.
With the rising intensity of international marine tourism traffic, the Labuan Bajo Immigration Office remains committed to adapting its public services while maintaining professional and human-centered immigration oversight.
Charles concluded that their efforts are aligned with the broader mission to strengthen Labuan Bajo as a destination of choice for luxury maritime travelers worldwide.
“Data confirm that Labuan Bajo is now a favorite route for international cruises and luxury yachts,” he said.
As Labuan Bajo continues to attract high-value travelers seeking unique ocean adventures, the local authorities are determined to ensure that every arrival contributes positively to the region’s economic growth while safeguarding legal compliance and visitor confidence.
Source: Detik, Kompas
Photo Credit: Zene Holmes (pexels.com)
