A tourist boat named Sea Story sank in the Red Sea near the town of Marsa Alam on November 25th.
The vessel was carrying a total of 44 people, including 32 tourists of various nationalities and 13 crew members. While 28 people were rescued and had minor injuries, and 14 people are still missing.
Red Sea Governor Amr Hanafi said, ” A sudden large wave struck the boar, sinking it within five to seven minutes. Some passengers were in their cabins, which is why they were unable to escape.”
A distress signal was sent at approximately 5:30 AM local time after reportedly being struck by a large wave during a diving trip. Egyptian authorities quickly mobilized search and rescue operations after receiving the signal but were able to rescue only 28 people from the water.
Survivors included nationals from several countries, with reports confirming that two Britons and one Finish citizen are among those still unaccounted for.
The Red Sea Governor, Major General Amr Hanafi, indicated that some survivors were airlifted to receive medical attention while others were assisted by rescue vessels until they could be transported back to shore.
The Egyptian Meteorological Authority had issued a warning about touch seas before the incident. They advise against maritime activities due to expected wave heights reaching between 3 to 4 meters (10 to 13 feet) in the Red Sea.
But the questions are now being raised regarding how the boat was permitted to sail under such hazardous conditions. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the boat capsized within five minutes of being hit by the wave.
It raises concerns about the adequacy of safety measures and weather conditions at the time of departure.
This incident serves as a reminder of past maritime tragedies in Egypt, including a similar event in 2023. That time, tourists were missing after a motorboat fire near Marsa Alam.
As search efforts continue, the focus remains on locating those still missing while ensuring that survivors receive necessary support and medical care.
The Egyptian government is under scrutiny as it navigates the implications of this disaster on its vital tourism sector, particularly in regions renowned for their diving opportunities.