Snorkeling Boat Catches Fire Off Nusa Penida, All 4 Foreign Tourists Safe
On October 29, a private snorkeling boat caught fire after an explosion off Gamat Bay, Nusa Penida, in Klungkung Regency, Bali. Four foreign tourists and the crew jumped into the sea and were safely rescued, though the boat captain suffered leg burns. Police are investigating the cause of the explosion.
Bali Police have confirmed that all four foreign tourists aboard a snorkeling boat that caught fire off Gamat Bay, Sakti Village, Nusa Penida, in Klungkung Regency, survived the incident unharmed.
The fire broke out around 1:40 p.m. local time on Thursday, October 29, as the boat was leaving Gamat Bay after completing a private snorkeling tour that included Manta Bay and Crystal Bay. A loud explosion, believed to have originated from a battery component at the bow, triggered flames that quickly engulfed the vessel.
According to the tour guide, safety and technical checks had been carried out before departure, which took place around 12:30 p.m., and the boat was deemed to be in safe condition.
Upon witnessing the explosion, the guide and the four tourists jumped into the sea to escape. Around 2:50 p.m., a passing boat rescued all passengers and crew. No fatalities were reported.
The boat captain, I Kadek Dwiyana, 31, from Nusa Penida, suffered burns to his leg and received treatment at the emergency department of Gema Santhi Regional Hospital in Nusa Penida.
Police are continuing to investigate the exact cause of the explosion and fire. Investigators from the Nusa Penida Police Criminal Investigation Unit have begun gathering witness statements and examining the scene, with further on-site investigation planned. Initial information indicates the boat had recently undergone routine maintenance and repairs. The boat's owner is expected to file an official report with Nusa Penida Police once the victim's hospital care is complete.
Things to Consider
Before booking boat tours or snorkeling trips around Nusa Penida, verify that the operator conducts regular vessel maintenance and carries insurance. Always locate life jackets and emergency exit points before departure, and wear clothing suitable for a quick jump into the water if needed. Share your accommodation details, emergency contacts, and information on marine insurance coverage with family or travel companions in case of an incident.
Source: ANTARA News Bali