This study analyzes the implementation of operational management at PT Pelni (Persero) Bitung Branch in handling passenger surges during the 2025-2026 Nataru peak season, examined through four operational management functions: Planning, Organizing, Actuating, and Controlling (POAC). A qualitative method with an intrinsic case study approach was used, with data collected through in-depth interviews with five informants directly involved in operational activities. The results show that planning was proactive and systematic, utilizing historical passenger data projections, routine coordination, fleet ramp checks, and a 30% capacity dispensation to anticipate a passenger increase of up to 15,995 people. Organizing was implemented through clear job descriptions and cross-agency synergy facilitated by the Nataru Command Post, although the additional personnel deployed were not proportional to the increased operational workload. The embarkation and disembarkation process followed a three-stage system supported by batching and a spiral gate to maintain passenger flow and minimize congestion. Supervision was conducted through tiered and real-time monitoring, accompanied by periodic evaluations. The study concludes that operational management has been implemented fairly effectively, although improvements are still required, particularly in human resource adequacy and cybersecurity risk mitigation.