2 weeks ago
3
ARTICLE AD BOX
The boat, carrying 11 foreign nationals and two local guides, had departed from Sanur earlier that morning, bound for Manta Point, a popular snorkeling site. Operated by Captain Komang Juniarta Putra and two crew members, the trip took a devastating turn when the boat was hit by large waves near Kelingking Point.
According to witness statements and official reports, the captain attempted to reduce the boat’s speed and maneuver away from the swell, but an object is believed to have struck the boat’s engine, rendering it uncontrollable. The vessel was then repeatedly hit by waves and eventually capsized.
Nearby snorkeling boats rushed to assist, successfully rescuing 10 passengers, who were evacuated to Kelingking Beach. However, one female tourist identified as Gabriel Hijniakoff (28) sustained burns to her upper thighs, allegedly caused by engine heat. She and her partner, Cintamani Warington (32), both Australian nationals staying in Dream Sea Bali, Uluwatu, were immediately taken to Griya Medika Clinic in Nusa Penida.
Tragically, another passenger identified as Anna, also an Australian national, was evacuated using the Sea Dragon 1 boat and transferred to Sanur before being rushed to Sanglah Hospital in Denpasar, where she was declared dead on arrival.
The other victims—identified as Andreas Abel, Liisa Abel, Alexandra Abel, Eva Jongbloed, Daniela Faber, Holli, Josepphine, and Lisa—were evacuated using a separate vessel, Axe Stone, and transported safely to Sanur.
Police actions included securing the scene, collecting witness statements, and overseeing the evacuation. The capsized boat was later recovered and towed to Toyapakeh Harbor by Sea Dragon 1.
As of now, the two injured tourists are scheduled to be airlifted to Denpasar for further medical treatment. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the accident and have emphasized the need for stricter safety measures, especially during unpredictable sea conditions.
English (US) 