Rumpon and Rope: The Propeller Risk Below the Surface

A thermocol float passed close alongside a vessel drifting off Indonesia and later disappeared from view. A check aft revealed why: a substantial rope associated with it had reached the propeller area.In this episode, we look at rumpon, the fishing arrangements commonly encountered in Indonesian waters, and why the visible float may be only a small part of the operational hazard.The discussion covers drifting vessels, lookout limitations, submerged fishing gear and the precautions worth considering before turning the shaft after prolonged drifting in fishing-dense waters.Read the full DeepDraft analysis:https://thedeepdraft.com/2026/09/28/rumpon-and-rope-indonesias-hidden-propeller-fouling-hazard/