Across The Bali Strait by wysiwig
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No AI - This artwork was created entirely by hand or with traditional digital tools.
Description
There are only three ways to get from Bali to Java. If you have money you can fly. If you have a little money you can take an auto ferry. If you have no money you take a landing craft. I took an auto ferry, the good ship S.S. Ketapang.
The images below show two World War II era Japanese landing craft still in use in 1978. You might be thinking, “Oh, those poor people, having to take those dangerous boats across the waves.” These boats, with their flat bottoms, however, were designed to sail on rough water. The auto ferry had a standard ship’s hull and was more subject to the action of the waves.
We pulled away from the dock and I quickly realized there was a noticeable list to port (left side). The ship carried automobiles and trucks. Apparently the cargo was unbalanced. Moving out into the strait the swells became higher and the boat rocked from side to side. As we approached the far shore the list became progressively more pronounced. Ten degrees, fifteen degrees, twenty degrees. The woman sitting next to me had begun to pray.
I’m going to take a little break from our trip, leaving me stranded at sea, and show you some recent images taken this last June.
I want to thank everyone who has visited and especially those who have left comments. They are greatly appreciated.

Comments (15)
Or if you are super broke...you can 'swim'! Very interesting post.
A graphic description of that journey. The landing craft looks quite romantic in this context.
thanks for your story about !! nice captured too!!
très intéressant!
Very cool photos and great description
nice shots my friend
A nice ride that carried through your images and your words, Mark! An exceptional guide!
OMG! Did you make it? LOL! What a great story ... you had me on the edge of my seat! These landing craft look quite sturdy. I would have enjoyed the experience.
Cool story....happy landings!! Survival training!!
descriptively and graphically beautiful
very creative work!
Gosh I would have been praying too. I'm glad you got back safely. Excellent captures.
thank you too as a smile say hi wonderful capture excitment stares warm hugs, Linda
Great shots- thanks for sharing! :-)
Selina Photography™
I've been on a few ferry rides two up north Delaware, and Maryland area, the other of the coast of Texas, and they were near as exciting as yours was.. great story, and I am really enjoying the tour.