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The tragic sinking of the Sea Story tourist boat in the Red Sea has left survivors recounting harrowing tales of survival, questioning safety protocols, and highlighting critical delays in rescue operations. The incident on November 25, 2024, not only claimed lives but also raised serious concerns about the preparedness of tour operators and local authorities.

Survivors Share Their Nightmarish Ordeal Amidst Allegations of Crew Error and Safety Failures

The Calm Before the Storm

The Sea Story embarked from Porto Ghalib in Marsa Alam, Egypt, on a six-day diving expedition to Hurghada Marina. Passengers, predominantly experienced divers, were joined by three dive guides and twelve Egyptian crew members. Initially, the voyage seemed uneventful, with guests enjoying the serene waters of the Red Sea. However, as night fell on November 24, subtle signs of distress began to emerge. Furniture sliding across the deck and an unusually rocky ride hinted at impending danger. Yet, crew assurances quelled any immediate alarm among passengers.Despite these early warnings, the vessel’s fate was sealed just hours later. In the early hours of November 25, a colossal wave struck the Sea Story, causing it to capsize within minutes. Survivors recall the terrifying moment when the engines died, plunging the ship into darkness. For many, this marked the beginning of a grueling ordeal that would last for days.

A Race Against Time: The Critical Hours of Survival

Lucianna Galetta, a Belgian survivor, found herself trapped in the engine room along with her partner Christophe Lemmens and dive instructor Youssef al-Faramawy. They discovered an air pocket, allowing them to survive underwater for an astonishing 35 hours. Galetta recounted moments of despair, admitting she was "ready to die" and feared no one would come to their aid. The trio waited anxiously, with no communication or sign of rescue until they heard a distant helicopter. Unfortunately, it did not stop, leaving them to endure another 27 excruciating hours.Meanwhile, other survivors like Sarah Martin from the U.K. faced similar challenges. She described the chaotic scene aboard the sinking vessel and the subsequent struggle to stay afloat. Martin highlighted the inadequacy of safety equipment, noting that life rafts lacked essential supplies such as food and water, while flares had already been used. These deficiencies underscored the broader issues surrounding the tour operator's adherence to safety standards.

Allegations of Negligence and Crew Error

While local authorities attributed the disaster to adverse weather conditions, survivors strongly disagreed. Eleven survivors told the BBC that "crew error" and "safety failings" by Dive Pro Liveaboard played a significant role in the tragedy. A leading oceanographer corroborated these claims by providing weather data that contradicted official statements. This discrepancy fueled further scrutiny of the company’s practices and the adequacy of its safety measures.Moreover, the delayed response from rescue teams raised questions about coordination and prioritization. Survivors expressed frustration over the lack of immediate assistance, emphasizing the importance of timely interventions in maritime emergencies. Khattab al-Faramawi, uncle of one of the survivors, eventually led the rescue operation, but the delay in reaching those stranded remains a contentious issue.

Aftermath and Calls for Reform

In the wake of the disaster, the focus has shifted towards preventing future tragedies. Survivors have called for stricter regulations and enhanced safety protocols for liveaboard tours. The incident has prompted discussions on improving emergency preparedness, ensuring reliable communication systems, and conducting thorough inspections of vessels before departure.For families of the missing and deceased, closure remains elusive. Survivors like Lucianna Galetta have emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, urging authorities to investigate fully and implement necessary reforms. As the Red Sea recovers from this dark chapter, the hope is that lessons learned will lead to safer and more secure experiences for all future travelers.