Four British nationals are among at least 17 people still missing after a tourist yacht sank off the coast of Egypt’s Red Sea.
The incident occurred early on Monday morning when the Sea Story yacht sank south of the coastal town of Marsa Alam.
According to Egyptian officials, 31 tourists of various nationalities were aboard, along with 14 crew members.
Rescuers have saved 28 people, some of whom were airlifted for medical treatment. The survivors were located in the Wadi el-Gemal area, located south of Marsa Alam.
Military and naval forces, including the Egyptian Navy warship El Fateh and military aircraft, have intensified search efforts to locate the missing individuals.
Maj-Gen Amr Hanafi, the Governor of the Red Sea region, confirmed that “intensive search operations are underway” in coordination with the navy and armed forces.
The UK Foreign Office has stated that consular support is being provided to British nationals and their families affected by the tragedy.
At approximately 5.30am local time (3.30am GMT), the governorate received a distress call from the boat, which had embarked on a five-day journey from Marsa Alam. It remains unclear what caused the wooden-hulled motor yacht to sink.
The Sea Story yacht was operated by Dive Pro Liveaboard, a company based in Hurghada. The company has yet to provide further details about the incident.
This is the second boat to sink in the same area this year. In June, another boat sank after suffering damage from strong waves, though no casualties were reported at that time.
Prior to this incident, several tourist companies had already restricted or ceased operations in the Red Sea due to concerns over regional conflicts and related safety risks.
