Tourist Boat Tragedy in the Red Sea: Search and Recovery Operations Underway
A devastating incident occurred off the eastern coast of Egypt on November 25, 2024, when a tourist boat named "Sea Story" sank in the Red Sea. The boat, carrying 44 passengers and crew, sent out a distress signal early in the morning, prompting immediate rescue operations. As of November 26, authorities have confirmed the recovery of four bodies and three survivors, with nine individuals still missing. The survivors include two Belgian tourists and an Egyptian national, bringing the total number of rescued individuals to 31.
The boat, which was on a multi-day diving expedition from Port Ghalib to Hurghada, was reportedly struck by a sudden and large wave, leading to its capsizing. Eyewitness accounts from crew members suggest that the wave hit the vessel in the middle of the night, causing it to turn on its side, trapping some passengers in their cabins. The Egyptian Red Sea governor, Amr Hanafi, stated that the boat had no technical defects and had passed all necessary inspections prior to the trip.
Rescue operations are being conducted by the Egyptian military, utilizing frigates and helicopters to search for the missing individuals. Among the passengers are tourists from various countries, including Germany, the UK, the US, and several other European nations. The German embassy in Cairo has confirmed that three German citizens are among the missing, while the Chinese embassy reported that two of its citizens were rescued and are in good health.
Ongoing Investigations and Support for Victims' Families
The tragic sinking of the "Sea Story" has raised concerns regarding the safety of tourist operations in the region. The German Foreign Office has dispatched a team to provide consular assistance to the affected families and is in close contact with Egyptian authorities. Reports indicate that two of the missing individuals are from Munich, and efforts are underway to ascertain the identities of the deceased.
As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on locating the nine missing passengers. Local authorities have assured that all rescued individuals are receiving medical treatment and support, with arrangements being made for their return home. The incident has drawn attention to the safety protocols in place for tourist boats operating in the Red Sea, a popular destination for divers and holidaymakers alike.
