According to Raja Ampat Transportation Agency head Yohanes B. Rawarin, the ban was implemented because the sea surrounding the port is very shallow and large ships would destroy the surrounding coral reef.
Large passenger and cruise ships have been banned from docking at the port of Arborek tourist village in the Raja Ampat area of West Papua, Indonesia.
According to Raja Ampat Transportation Agency head Yohanes B. Rawarin, the ban was implemented because the sea surrounding the port is very shallow and large ships would destroy the surrounding coral reef.
He added that local residents had also reported the disappearance of several fish species due to docking ships.
A small coastal village, Arborek is a popular destination for its beaches and diving spots. But tourism could potentially have devastating consequences on its natural beauty if not controlled.
To preserve the reef, the agency is currently working on a regulation that would allow certain types of ships to dock at the port, and also determine the areas for cruise ships to drop anchor, allowing visitors to dive or snorkel in the waters.
“If shipping activities in Raja Ampat are not regulated, this little heaven will only remain a story,” said Yohanes.