Is Kendari safe for tourists?

Yes, Kendari is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken in crowded areas.

How long is the flight from Makassar to Kendari?

The flight is approximately 1 hour.

Can I take a car on the Pelni ship?

Yes, but you must book vehicle space well in advance through the Pelni office.

What is the best way to get around Kendari?

Motorbike taxis (ojek) and ride-hailing apps are the most convenient.

Are there hotels near the port in Kendari?

Yes, there are several budget and mid-range hotels within a 15-minute drive of the port.

Sorong

Kendari

Flight Ship

Sorong to Kendari

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Sorong to Kendari connects the Bird's Head Peninsula to the southeastern arm of Sulawesi. Flying is the most practical choice, typically involving a transit in Makassar. Alternatively, the Pelni ship network offers a sea route that connects these two major port cities. Kendari is the capital of Southeast Sulawesi and a hub for nickel mining and coastal tourism. This journey covers approximately 1,300 km across the sea.

Total Distance: Driving distance N/A; straight-line air distance 1,320 km.

Fastest Way

Flight via Makassar, taking approximately 7 hours including transit.

Cheapest Way

Pelni ship, which is significantly cheaper than flying but takes much longer.

Compare Sorong to Kendari Routes

	Flight Connecting	Ship Connecting
Duration	7 hours	72 hours
Avg Price	IDR 1,900,000 - 3,200,000	IDR 750,000 - 1,100,000
Operator	Lion Air / Garuda Indonesia	PT Pelni
Route	SOQ to UPG (Makassar), then UPG to KDI.	Sorong Port to Bungkutoko Port (Kendari).
Tip	Check for flights that allow a short layover in Makassar.	The ship journey is long; ensure you have enough entertainment and snacks.

Travel Tips

Flight Booking
Use travel aggregators to compare prices between airlines for the Makassar transit.
Ship Schedule
Check the Pelni schedule at least a month in advance as ships do not run daily.
Packing
Bring a power bank, as charging ports on ships are limited.
Local Transport
Use the 'Maxim' or 'Grab' apps for affordable transport within Kendari city.
Weather
Always carry a raincoat, as tropical rain can occur unexpectedly.

Safety Tips

Sea Safety
Ensure you know the location of life jackets on the ship immediately after boarding.
Health
Carry basic first aid supplies, including antiseptic and bandages.
Scams
Avoid unofficial transport providers at the port; use registered taxis.
General Safety
Keep your digital documents backed up in the cloud.