A snorkeling boat carrying 13 people, including 11 Australian tourists, capsized in rough seas off Indonesia’s Bali island on Friday, killing one woman and injuring two others, local authorities said.
The vessel, identified as the Sea Dragon, was en route from Bali to Nusa Penida, a popular island destination, when it was struck by high waves near Kelingking waters, according to police spokesperson Agus Widiono.
Captain’s Efforts to Control the Boat Failed
The boat’s captain, Komang Jun, was operating the vessel with two crew members on board when a large wave hit.
As the captain attempted to slow the engine and navigate the turbulent waters, the boat was struck again, rendering it difficult to control. A third impact overturned the vessel, throwing passengers into the sea.
Fatality and Injuries Reported
A 39-year-old Australian woman, identified as Anna Maree, was thrown overboard by the first wave. She was later found unresponsive and evacuated to Sanur before being pronounced dead at Sanglah Hospital in Denpasar.
Another passenger, Gabriel Hijniakoff, sustained burns on his upper thigh and was taken with his partner to Griya Medika Clinic in Nusa Penida for treatment.
Rescue Operations and Aftermath
Local rescue efforts saved 12 survivors, including the two crew members and the injured tourists.
Ten people were brought ashore at Kelingking Beach, while eight others were later transported via the Axe Stone boat from Banjar Nyuh Harbor to Sanur.
The overturned Sea Dragon boat was eventually towed to Toya Pakeh Harbor in Nusa Penida.
Ongoing Maritime Safety Concerns
Maritime accidents are a recurring issue in Indonesia, where boat overcrowding and lax safety regulations have contributed to numerous fatalities over the years. The sprawling archipelago, home to over 280 million people and more than 17,000 islands, relies heavily on sea transport despite ongoing safety concerns.
