Tragedy At Sea: Four Dead, Seven Missing After Tourist Boat Capsizes In Egypt
Four bodies were recovered on Tuesday after a tourist boat, the Sea Story, capsized off Egypt’s Red Sea coast. Rescue teams are still searching for seven missing passengers, according to a statement from the Red Sea Governorate.
Provincial governor Amr Hanafi confirmed that five people were rescued alive: two Belgian tourists, one Swiss, one Finn, and an Egyptian. This brings the total number of survivors to 33.
The Sea Story, carrying 31 tourists and 13 crew members, sank on Monday near the Sataya Reef during a multi-day diving trip. High waves struck the boat, causing it to capsize within five to seven minutes.
Twenty-eight people sustained minor injuries and are currently recovering in a hotel in Marsa Alam. Authorities are working closely with embassies to provide assistance and necessary documentation for the survivors.
Governor Hanafi stated that the boat had undergone its last safety inspection in March, with no technical issues reported. The 34-meter vessel, owned by an Egyptian national, had a valid one-year safety certificate issued by the Maritime Safety Authority.
The accident occurred during severe weather conditions. The Egyptian Red Sea Ports Authority reported wave heights of 3-4 meters (10-13 feet) and wind speeds of 34 knots on Sunday, prompting a temporary closure of maritime traffic in the area.
This incident marks the second boat sinking in the region this year. In June, another vessel sustained severe damage from strong waves, though no casualties were reported.
The Red Sea, famous for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, is a cornerstone of Egypt’s tourism sector, which plays a crucial role in the national economy. However, the recent string of maritime accidents has raised concerns about safety regulations and emergency preparedness in this vital industry.
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