Cairo, Nov 25 – A devastating maritime accident off Egypt’s Red Sea coast has left 16 people missing, including 12 foreign nationals. The incident occurred early Monday morning when The Sea Story, a tourist vessel carrying 44 individuals, capsized during a multi-day diving expedition near Marsa Alam.
The Red Sea Governorate provided updated details, revealing that the boat had 31 tourists and 13 crew members onboard at the time of the accident. Earlier reports had mistakenly suggested there were 14 crew members. Out of those on board, 28 individuals were safely rescued, sustaining only minor injuries like bruises and scrapes. Officials confirmed that none of the survivors required hospitalization.
Rapidly Developing Tragedy
Preliminary findings indicate that a sudden and large wave struck the vessel, flipping it over within a matter of minutes. Red Sea Governor Amr Hanafi explained that some passengers were in their cabins when the wave hit, leaving them unable to escape. This tragic detail highlights the severity of the accident and the limited time for evacuation.
The governorate reported that the boat sent out a distress signal at 5:30 a.m. local time. Departing from Porto Ghalib on Sunday, the vessel was scheduled to return to Hurghada Marina on November 29.
Search and Rescue Efforts
Rescue teams, including Egyptian armed forces, used frigates and aircraft to conduct an extensive search for the missing. Despite their efforts throughout the day, the operation was suspended at 5:00 p.m. local time due to fading light. Officials confirmed that search activities would resume the following morning to maximize visibility and safety during the mission.
The 34-meter-long vessel, owned by an Egyptian national, carried foreign tourists from several countries, including the United States, Belgium, China, the United Kingdom, Germany, Ireland, Spain, Switzerland, and Poland, among others. Governor Hanafi reassured the public that Egyptian authorities are working closely with embassies and consulates to support the survivors.
The rescued individuals are being accommodated in a hotel in Marsa Alam, where their immediate needs are being met. Documentation processes are underway to assist them with their travel and other administrative requirements.
Conditions and Inspections
The Red Sea, known for its spectacular coral reefs and diverse marine life, attracts thousands of tourists annually. This region is vital to Egypt’s tourism economy, and safety standards for vessels operating in the area are strictly regulated.
Officials verified that The Sea Story underwent a thorough technical inspection by the Maritime Safety Authority in March 2024, receiving a safety certification valid for one year. However, adverse weather conditions on Sunday, with wind speeds of up to 34 knots and waves reaching heights of 3 to 4 meters (10 to 13 feet), contributed significantly to the tragedy. The Egyptian Red Sea Ports Authority had suspended maritime traffic in the area on the same afternoon due to these conditions.
Ongoing Investigations
Governor Hanafi stated that the vessel likely sank near the Sataya Reef, a popular destination for diving enthusiasts. The precise circumstances leading to the capsizing remain under investigation, as authorities strive to determine whether additional factors played a role in the incident.
This tragedy marks the second boat sinking in the region this year. In June, a vessel suffered severe wave damage but, fortunately, resulted in no casualties.
Egyptian authorities have expressed their commitment to uncovering the root cause of this latest accident. In addition to focusing on accountability, they aim to implement any necessary measures to enhance the safety of maritime activities in the Red Sea.
Supporting the Victims
Survivors are receiving ongoing support from local officials, with efforts being made to ensure their safety and comfort. Embassies and consulates are collaborating closely with Egyptian authorities to address documentation needs and provide updates to families.
As rescue teams continue their search, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with maritime travel, especially in challenging weather conditions. The tragedy underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols and real-time monitoring of environmental factors to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Egypt’s tourism sector, already vital to its economy, will likely face increased scrutiny over the incident. Efforts are underway to balance the promotion of the Red Sea as a world-class diving destination with ensuring the highest safety standards for all visitors.