Four bodies were recovered on Tuesday from a tourist boat that capsized off Egypt’s Red Sea coast. Rescue teams continue to search for nine individuals still missing, according to a statement from the Red Sea Governorate.
Provincial Governor Amr Hanafi confirmed that three survivors had been found: two Belgian tourists and an Egyptian, raising the total number of survivors to 31. The boat, named Sea Story, capsized on Monday near the Sataya Reef while on a multi-day diving trip with 31 tourists and 13 crew members aboard. High waves caused the vessel to sink within five to seven minutes.
A total of 28 people were rescued, all with minor injuries, and are now staying in a hotel in Marsa Alam. Authorities are collaborating with embassies to provide support and documentation.
Governor Hanafi noted that the boat had passed its most recent safety inspection in March, with no technical issues reported. The 34-meter-long vessel, owned by an Egyptian national, had been issued a one-year safety certificate by the Maritime Safety Authority.
The incident occurred during rough weather conditions, with wave heights of 3-4 meters (10-13 feet) and wind speeds of 34 knots, as reported by the Egyptian Red Sea Ports Authority. As a result, maritime traffic was halted in the area.
This tragedy marks the second boat sinking in the region this year. In June, another vessel was severely damaged by strong waves, though no fatalities were reported. The Red Sea, known for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life, remains a key destination for Egypt’s tourism industry, a vital sector of the country’s economy.