Maritime Tragedy: Tourist Boat Sinks in Red Sea, Leaving 17 Missing
A maritime emergency unfolded on Saturday when the tourist boat Sea Story sank in the Red Sea near Marsa Alam, Egypt, resulting in 17 people missing and 28 rescued. The incident occurred during what was intended to be a five-day diving expedition.
The vessel, carrying a total of 45 people—31 tourists and 14 crew members—sent out a distress signal at 05:30 local time (03:30 GMT). Major General Amr Hanafi, the governor of Red Sea province, reported that survivors were found in the Wadi el-Gemal area, located south of Marsa Alam, and were promptly receiving medical attention.
Egyptian military resources have been mobilized to address the crisis. The Egyptian Navy warship El Fateh and military aircraft are intensifying search and rescue efforts to locate the missing individuals. The swift response highlights the critical nature of the maritime emergency.
The Sea Story, a relatively new vessel, was built in 2022 and is 44 meters (144 feet) long. According to its website, the boat features four decks and 18 cabins with a passenger capacity of up to 36 people. The boat’s operator, Dive Pro Liveaboard, has not yet issued an official comment regarding the incident.
Marsa Alam, the departure point for the ill-fated voyage, is a renowned tourist destination on Egypt’s southern Red Sea coast. The area is particularly famous for its exceptional diving opportunities, including world-class coral reefs that attract international tourists and diving enthusiasts.
The ongoing search and rescue operation remains a critical priority for Egyptian authorities, who are working diligently to account for all individuals aboard the Sea Story. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with maritime travel, even on modern vessels designed for tourist expeditions.
As the investigation continues, questions will undoubtedly arise about the circumstances that led to the boat’s sinking and the factors that may have contributed to this maritime disaster. The safety of tourists and crew members is paramount, and this incident will likely prompt a thorough review of maritime safety protocols in the region.
The international diving and tourism community will be closely monitoring the developments of this tragic event, hoping for the safe recovery of those still missing and understanding the full context of what transpired during what was meant to be a routine diving trip in the picturesque waters of the Red Sea.
