Implementasi Strategi Pelayanan untuk Mengatasi Lonjakan Penumpang dan Kendaraan Selama Libur Nasional pada Kapal Roro Pelabuhan Tanjung Buton–Batam

The Tanjung Buton (Mengkapan) Roll-on/Roll-off (Roro) Ferry Port plays a strategic role in connecting the mainland of Sumatra with Batam Island through Telaga Punggur Port. The increasing mobility of people and economic activities has led to a significant rise in passenger and vehicle traffic on this route, particularly during national holiday periods. This study aims to examine the current condition of Roro ferry services, analyze the increase in passenger and vehicle traffic based on operational data, and formulate service strategies to improve service quality on the Mengkapan–Telaga Punggur route. This study employed a qualitative descriptive research method. Data were collected through observation, documentation, and passenger and vehicle Manifest records of Roro ferry operations on the Mengkapan–Telaga Punggur route during April 2026. Data analysis was conducted descriptively through the processes of data collection, processing, presentation, and interpretation of operational data. The results indicate that during April 2026, a total of 62 ferry trips were operated by three vessels, namely KMP Wira Loewisa, KMP Lome, and KMP Tanjung Burang. During this period, 9,825 passengers and 2,403 vehicles used the ferry service. Passenger and vehicle traffic from Mengkapan to Telaga Punggur was higher than in the opposite direction, indicating a greater mobility of people traveling to Batam. Based on the findings, several service improvement strategies are recommended, including optimizing ferry operating schedules, improving vehicle queue management, maximizing vessel loading capacity, enhancing passenger information services, strengthening coordination among operational personnel, and utilizing Manifest data as the basis for operational planning. The implementation of these strategies is expected to improve service effectiveness and anticipate increases in passenger and vehicle traffic during periods of high demand.