Several passengers including American nationals have been reported missing after a tourist boat sank off the coast of Egypt during a “five-day diving trip.”
The boat, Sea Story, reportedly sank near Shaab Satayah, a popular diving destination off the coast of the tourist resort of Marsa Alam.
At least 17 people are missing after the tourist yacht sank in the Red Sea following warnings about turbulence and high waves Sunday and Monday, according to Egyptian officials.
Rescuers have managed to save 28 people so far from the vessel, some of whom were airlifted to receive medical treatment, according to Amr Hanafy, the governor of the Red Sea region.
The vessel contained 31 tourists of various nationalities in addition to 14 local crew members.
The Egyptian military has been involved in the rescue operation in coordination with the governorate.
The ship was built in 2022 and can hold 36 passengers, according to the Dive Pro Liveaboard company website.
It is believed that the captain took divers around the coast and that the vessel began experiencing issues, though the exact cause of the incident is currently unknown.
A crew member reportedly contacted the coastguard for help around 5:30 a.m. Monday after alerting of the sinking ship.
A helicopter and naval units were reportedly dispatched to the scene amid the frantic search for missing passengers.
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