A tourist yacht carrying 44 passengers sank in the Red Sea near Marsa Alam, Egypt on Monday, leaving 16 people missing. Initial investigations suggest the yacht capsized within minutes after being struck by a large wave, as reported by the Associated Press.
Governor Amr Hanafy of the Red Sea region confirmed that 28 passengers were rescued, with some airlifted for medical attention. Survivors sustained minor injuries and were taken to a nearby hotel in good condition. Later, it was reported that 3 bodies has been recovered according to a statement by the Red Sea provincial governor, Amr Hanafi to Reuters.
The yacht, Sea Story, had 13 Egyptians, including crew members, and 31 foreign nationals onboard from countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and Ireland. Rescue operations remain underway to locate four missing Egyptians and 12 foreign nationals.
Some passengers were reportedly inside their cabins at the time of the incident. Authorities stated that the vessel had passed its last safety inspection in March and had all the necessary permits for operation.
The Egyptian military is leading the rescue efforts, and foreign governments are providing consular support. Spain reported five of its nationals were rescued, while the UK Foreign Office and Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed they were assisting citizens impacted by the incident.
The Sea Story, a four-deck vessel built in 2022, embarked on a five-day journey from Marsa Alam, despite warnings issued by the Egyptian meteorological authority about rough seas. Officials had advised against maritime activity for Sunday and Monday, but the yacht’s distress call was only received early Monday morning.
The vessel was operated by Dive Pro Liveaboard, based in Hurghada. The company has not yet commented on the tragedy.
