Indonesia ferry with more than 170 on board erupts in flames sparking rescue operation

More than 170 people were on board. 08:51, Wed, Aug 12, 2026 Updated: 08:55, Wed, Aug 12, 2026 More than 170 people were evacuated from the ship (Image: BASARNAS via AP)A ferry between two of Indonesia's most popular holiday islands has been enveloped by a huge blaze, sparking a major rescue operation. The Putri Yasmin caught fire at around 4.15am on Wednesday while travelling from Padang Bai port in Bali to Lembar port on the neighbouring island of Lombok, in West Nusa Tenggara province.Rescuers and passing vessels managed to evacuate 172 people from the burning ferry, including two Australian tourists, while the body of a 19-year-old Indonesian girl was recovered. At least two injured passengers were taken to a nearby hospital, while dozens of survivors received medical assistance after