Bali ferry erupts in flames sparking dramatic rescue operation - with two Australians among those on board

By ASHLEY NICKEL, NEWS REPORTER, AUSTRALIA Published: 08:29, 12 August 2026 | Updated: 08:52, 12 August 2026 A ferry between two of Indonesia's most popular holiday islands has caught fire, with one death reported. More than 170 people were evacuated from the ferry travelling from Bali's Padang Bai to Lembar, on Lombok island, on Wednesday. The Daily Mail understands two Australians were on the boat. The ship caught fire at 4.39am, local time, amid rough conditions, with waves reaching up to four metres in height. 'Our top priority is the safety of all passengers and crew members,' Muhammad Hariyadi, head of the Mataram Search and Rescue Office, said. The ferry was carrying 114 passengers, 17 crew, 44 vehicles and 53 motorcycles - according to passenger data. Indonesian authorities confirmed the death of one Indonesian and successful evacuation of 172 people to ports on Bali and Lombok. An emergency call was issued almost half an hour after the ship caught fire, triggering an immediate rescue response. A ferry travelling from Bali's Padang Bai to Lembar, on Lombok island, caught fire on Wednesday morning More than 170 people were evacuated from the ship Authorities confirmed one Indonesian had died while 172 were safely evacuated to ports on Bali and Lombok An emergency call was issued almost half an hour after the ferry caught fire Rescue personnel were assisted by Indonesian navy ships, patrol boats, rescue vessels and a helicopter. It is unclear how the ferry caught fire or if overcrowding was a factor in the incident. Smartraveller warns Australians headed to Indonesia 'many businesses don't follow safety and maintenance standards, including transport and tour operators'.  Another ferry carrying 271 passengers between East Java and South Sulawesi caught fire earlier this month, killing five people.