Musi Cruise Operations Temporarily Halted, Prioritize River Tourism Safety

The flow of the Musi River has long been the lifeblood of Palembang City's history and Tourism. From its banks to the span of the Ampera Bridge, this legendary river offers an experience tracing the footsteps of the Srivijaya civilization through iconic water tourism. However, for the time being, the pulse of Musi River Cruise Tourism must slow down.

The Palembang City Government in South Sumatra has temporarily suspended operations of the Musi Cruise tourist boat due to damage. This decision was made to ensure the safety of tourists who have made Musi Cruise their primary choice for enjoying the river panorama.

Palembang Mayor Ratu Dewa stated on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, that the Musi Cruise Palembang tourist boat had sustained damage and no longer met sailing standards. 

According to him, this operational suspension is a preventive measure to ensure river tourism activities continue prioritizing passenger safety and comfort.

He explained that halting the tourist boat's operation was necessary to maintain passenger safety and comfort. Technical assessments showed the vessel currently in use no longer meets long-term operational feasibility standards.

"We don't want to take risks. If the boat isn't seaworthy, it certainly can't be forced to operate. Public safety is paramount," he said.

Nevertheless, the Palembang City Government ensures this step isn't the end of Musi River tourism. The local government instead sees this as momentum to create a safer, more modern, and classy river tourism experience.

Despite this, the government confirms they won't remain idle and will seek assistance from the central government to provide better, modern tourist boats meeting safety standards.

"Moving forward, we'll coordinate with the central government so Palembang can obtain an even better tourist boat, one truly representative as an icon of Musi River Tourism," he stated.

In addition to involving the central government, Ratu Dewa is also opening opportunities for private sector partnerships. He considers private sector involvement crucial to revive Musi River cruise tourism, which has been Palembang City's main attraction.

"We're also inviting private companies to participate. If there's a seaworthy boat meeting standards, we'll reopen Musi Cruise services," he said.

The Palembang City Transportation Agency stated this tourist boat operates three times daily: morning (08.00-10.00 WIB), afternoon (16.00–18.00 WIB), and evening (19.00–21.00 WIB). 

This schedule allows tourists to experience the Musi River's character in various atmospheres, from tranquil mornings to nights illuminated by city lights.

The Musi Cruise concept is known as affordable river tourism for all demographics. Locals only need to pay Rp5,000 per person to enjoy the Musi River panorama, making it one of Palembang's most inclusive tourism products.

The Musi Cruise boat has a capacity of up to 100 passengers. Whenever the passenger quota is filled, the boat departs immediately according to the predetermined schedule.(ANTARA)