Survivors of Red Sea Dive Boat Tragedy Share Terrifying Accounts of Survival

Survivors of the Sea Story, a dive boat that capsized in the Red Sea, recount their fears, the inadequate response from authorities, and raise questions about the safety protocols of the tour company.

In a recent maritime disaster, survivors of the dive boat Sea Story, which sunk in the Red Sea, have bravely recounted their chilling experiences while trapped in the boat for 35 hours. A number of conflicting reports regarding the cause of the sinking have emerged, casting doubt on official narratives.

On November 25, the Sea Story capsized amid allegations of a sudden wave reaching 4 meters, a claim contested by survivors and an oceanography expert who indicated that such conditions were implausible based on available weather data. Survivors believe that a combination of mechanical failures and possible crew negligence contributed more significantly to the disaster.

Among those rescued was Lucianna Galetta, who spent 35 harrowing hours in an air pocket at the back of the wrecked vessel. “By the end, I was just wondering how I would prefer to die,” she reflected, grappling with the escalating panic and despair. Lucianna and her partner were discovered along with a dive instructor, highlighting both the physical danger and emotional toll of the ordeal.

Diver accounts reveal a chaotic scene as the boat rolled sharply, turning ordinary items into obstacles that hindered escape. Survivor Sarah Martin described how the boat's interior became a disorienting maze, declaring, “Everything was at 90 degrees – the door was on the floor and all our things were blocking it.” Such conditions were made worse by what survivors characterized as inadequate safety measures, including non-functioning life jackets and unsecured heavy furniture that rearranged dangerously during the capsizing.

Furthermore, frustrations mounted regarding the emergency protocols that were either absent or poorly executed. A significant delay occurred before a distress call was registered despite visible chaos onboard. Survivors reported feeling as though their rescue was hindered by a lack of urgency and efficiency from Egyptian authorities.

And while there was initial joy upon hearing of a rescue operation, Lucianna shared that she and others waited an agonizing 27 hours without contact. This raised profound concerns about the search efforts carried out by authorities, which were criticized for relying heavily on civilian volunteers to conduct the rescue mission.

As this incident continues to impact victims and their families, questions persist regarding accountability. Survivors emphasize a desire for answers and a thorough investigation into the events that led to this tragedy. The Egyptian government has not yet responded publicly to the myriad safety concerns raised by survivors and has opened inquiries into the incident.

In the aftermath, families of missing and deceased divers, such as the couple Jenny Cawson and Tarig Sinada from Devon, grapple with their loss amid ongoing investigations. Their friends lament that the couple, experienced divers who conducted thorough safety research, were switched to the Sea Story at the last minute — a decision that proved catastrophic. Survivors urge that measures be taken to ensure diving safety in Egypt, drawing attention to their traumatic experiences to prevent future tragedies.

As the survivors of the Sea Story recount their escape experiences, the pressing need for reform in the diving industry and rigorous safety regulations resonates louder than ever.