Red Sea Boat Sinking Leaves Four Dead, Several Still Missing
Egyptian authorities have confirmed the recovery of four bodies and the rescue of five individuals during an ongoing search operation in the Red Sea after a tourist boat sank near Marsa Alam on Monday. The vessel, carrying 44 people, capsized following rough weather, with 33 individuals rescued so far. Seven people, including two British nationals, remain unaccounted for as of Tuesday evening.
The 44-metre Sea Story yacht, a modern four-deck vessel, had departed Marsa Alam on Sunday for a five-day diving trip, intending to conclude in Hurghada. Early reports suggest the yacht was struck by a large wave during the night, causing it to capsize within minutes. Egyptian authorities said distress calls were sent at 05:30 local time, but the rapid sinking left some passengers trapped in their cabins.
Red Sea governor Major General Amr Hanafi stated that survivors were found by military personnel and a passing tourist boat. Additional survivors were located in the Wadi el-Gemal area, south of Marsa Alam. Despite harsh conditions, rescue teams continue to search for the missing individuals. The governor emphasised that no technical faults were found on the vessel, which had undergone safety inspections in March 2024.
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The Egyptian Meteorological Authority had issued warnings of high waves and rough winds in the Red Sea, with conditions deteriorating on Sunday night. Winds reached speeds of up to 43 mph (70 km/h), creating waves as high as four metres (13 feet). These hazardous conditions contributed to the tragic incident, underscoring the risks of maritime activity during adverse weather.
Passengers aboard the Sea Story hailed from various countries, including Belgium, Britain, China, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Poland, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, and the United States. Among the missing are two Polish tourists and one Finnish national, according to their respective foreign ministries. The UK Foreign Office has confirmed its support for affected British nationals and their families.
Marsa Alam, a popular diving destination known for its coral reefs and marine biodiversity, has witnessed maritime tragedies in the past. In 2023, three British divers lost their lives when their boat caught fire off the coast. Local authorities continue to investigate the current incident, while survivors are being accommodated at a tourist hotel in the area.
The Sea Story, built in 2022, had been operating under Egyptian ownership. Its operator, Dive Pro Liveaboard, has yet to comment on the incident. For now, the focus remains on the safe recovery of those still missing and the wellbeing of the rescued passengers.
To read a firsthand account from one of the survivors of the Red Sea tragedy, visit this BBC feature on the incident.
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