<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze the factors causing delays in the loading and unloading process on board KM Lambelu, a passenger vessel operating on Central and Eastern Indonesian routes. Loading and unloading activities are critical processes that influence voyage schedules, logistics distribution, and passenger service quality. Delays in these activities may result in operational inefficiencies, increased costs, and disruptions to maritime transportation services.This research employed a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were collected during the author’s sea practice period aboard KM Lambelu through observation, interviews, and documentation. Informants included ship crew members (ABK), loading and unloading workers (TKBM), and port officials. The data were analyzed using NVivo 12 Pro through data reduction, triangulation, and conclusion drawing to ensure the validity of the findings.The results indicate that delays in the loading and unloading process are influenced by three factors. First, weak coordination and communication between ABK and TKBM lead to misunderstandings and inefficiencies during cargo operations. Second, inadequate port facilities, including limited loading and unloading equipment, insufficient berth capacity, and the lack of tugboat services at several ports, contribute to operational delays. Third, weather conditions and strong ocean currents frequently obstruct berthing maneuvers and slow cargo handling activities.Based on these findings, the study recommends strengthening coordination through pre-operational briefings, enhancing TKBM competence through training programs, enforcing work discipline, and improving port infrastructure and equipment availability. Implementing these measures is expected to reduce delays, improve loading and unloading efficiency, and support the enhancement of maritime transportation services in Indonesia effectively, efficiently, and sustainably.]]>
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