Sixteen Missing After Tourist Boat Sinks in Egypt’s Red Sea

A tragic incident unfolded in Egypt’s Red Sea early Monday morning as a tourist boat carrying 44 people capsized, leaving 16 individuals missing, including multiple foreign nationals. Egyptian authorities report that 28 passengers were rescued, while intensive efforts continue to locate the missing.

Among those unaccounted for are two British citizens, one Finnish national, and four Egyptians. Authorities are also working to verify the presence of two Polish nationals aboard. Rescued passengers include two Chinese citizens confirmed to be in good health, according to state media.

The distress signal from the vessel, Sea Story, was received at 05:30 (03:30 GMT). Survivors were located near Wadi el-Gemal, south of Marsa Alam, and are receiving medical care. The Egyptian Navy’s warship El Fateh and military aircraft are leading a round-the-clock search operation in coordination with rescue teams.

The sinking occurred amidst warnings from the Egyptian Meteorological Authority about turbulent sea conditions over the weekend. Reports indicated wind speeds of up to 43 mph (70 km/h) and wave heights reaching 13 feet (4 meters). Witness accounts suggest a large wave struck the boat, leading to the capsizing.

The Sea Story had departed from Marsa Alam on Sunday for a five-day diving expedition. Passengers included tourists from the UK, Spain, Germany, and the United States, alongside an Egyptian crew.

The UK Foreign Office is in contact with Egyptian authorities, providing support to affected British nationals and their families. Similarly, other countries, including Finland and Poland, are working with Egyptian officials to confirm the identities of those still missing and ensure the welfare of survivors.

As military and rescue teams intensify their efforts, concerns mount over safety measures for marine activities during hazardous weather conditions. Egyptian officials have yet to release a detailed statement on the cause of the accident.