DENPASAR – A snorkeling boat carrying 13 people, including 11 Australian tourists, capsized in rough seas off Bali on Friday, leaving one woman dead and two others injured, local police reported.
The boat, Sea Dragon, was traveling from Bali to Nusa Penida when it was struck by large waves, police spokesperson Agus Widiono said. The incident occurred in the waters of Kelingking, a well-known snorkeling area.
Authorities said a 39-year-old Australian tourist, identified as Anna Maree, was thrown overboard by the first wave before a second wave overturned the boat. A nearby vessel managed to rescue 12 survivors, including two injured tourists and two local crew members. Maree’s body was later recovered by rescuers.
The survivors were taken to a local health clinic and are in stable condition.
Maritime accidents remain a concern in Indonesia, where overcrowding and lax safety enforcement contribute to frequent tragedies. With over 17,000 islands and a population of 280 million, boats remain a vital yet often hazardous mode of transportation.