TUI has reassured concerned customers following an incident where passengers had to jump overboard when a catamaran sank dramatically in the Caribbean. The vessel was ferrying passengers from the Mein Schiff 1 cruise ship during a stop in the Dominican Republic, forcing all 55 passengers to leap into the water. The outing on the 12-meter craft ended with holidaymakers floating in the sunshine across Samana bay before being rescued by the Dominican Navy.
TUI Cruises, the operator of the cruise from La Romana, stated that they are investigating the incident with the trip provider and local authorities to determine the cause. The global travel firm confirmed that the sunken catamaran was operated by an external provider and that they are collaborating closely with them and local authorities to clarify the situation.
Members of the El Crucero coastal community also aided in the rescue efforts. The local port authority mentioned that the Dominican Navy is working in conjunction with local authorities to identify those accountable and implement preventive measures for any future incidents.
All passengers were safely returned to the Mein Schiff 1 cruise ship, though the nationalities of those on the catamaran remain unknown. The sinking is believed to have been due to a hull leak, with ongoing investigations. The cruise ship, capable of accommodating up to 4,000 guests, will proceed with its itinerary, heading towards Jamaica as its next destination.
Video footage captured the moment the catamaran sank, with Dominican vessels arriving at the scene to help. Some rescued passengers later expressed dissatisfaction with the cruise staff, stating they received inadequate assistance. The TUI group manages 18 ships across its three cruise lines, with two operating from Germany and Marella Cruises departing from British ports.