Egyptian officials say 16 people missing after tourist yacht sank in high waves on Red Sea

A yacht carrying tourists capsized and sank in the Red Sea, despite prior warnings about rough sea conditions, with at least 16 people currently missing. Amr Hanafi, the governor of the Red Sea region, stated that rescue personnel have saved 28 people south of the coastal town of Marsa Alam, some of whom were airlifted for medical treatment.

According to an update on the Red Sea Governorate's Facebook page, Hanafi inspected the site where the yacht sank. The yacht had 44 people on board, including 13 Egyptians and 31 foreign nationals from the United States, Germany, Britain, Poland, Belgium, Switzerland, Finland, China, Slovakia, Spain, and Ireland. The governor confirmed that rescue workers are still searching for the missing, including 4 Egyptians and 12 foreigners. Meanwhile, the survivors, who sustained only minor bruises, have been accommodated in a hotel in Marsa Alam.

According to officials, the yacht, named "Sea Story," had no technical issues, had obtained all necessary permits before sailing, and had its most recent naval safety inspection in March. According to a provincial government update, initial reports based on statements from the yacht's crew and tourists indicate that a large wave struck the yacht, causing it to capsize. According to these statements, some passengers were inside the cabins when the incident occurred, and the entire event unfolded within minutes.

The British Foreign Office stated that it is providing consular support to "a number of British nationals and their families" following the sinking. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs also told the Associated Press in an email that it is "aware of the matter and is providing consular assistance," but did not elaborate further. Meanwhile, the Spanish Foreign Ministry stated that no Spanish nationals were reported missing. The ministry said that five Spanish nationals were rescued and are now out of danger.

The provincial government received a distress report from the yacht in the early hours of Monday, which had departed from Marsa Alam for a planned five-day voyage. The reason for the sinking of the four-story wooden motor yacht remains unclear. However, the Egyptian Meteorological Authority warned on Saturday of turbulent seas and high waves in the Red Sea, and advised against maritime activities on Sunday and Monday. They stated that wind speeds were between 60 and 70 kilometers per hour, with wave heights of three to four meters.

Dive Pro Liveaboard, based in Hurghada, Egypt, is the operator of the yacht. A person who answered the phone at the company told the Associated Press that they "had no information" before hanging up. According to its website, the "Sea Story" was built in 2022 and can accommodate 36 passengers. The Egyptian military is coordinating rescue efforts with the provincial government. Due to the dangers posed by conflicts in the region, many tour companies have stopped or limited travel in the Red Sea.