TUI has reassured concerned customers following an incident where passengers had to jump overboard as a catamaran sank in the Caribbean. The small boat, ferrying passengers from the Mein Schiff 1 cruise ship during a stop in the Dominican Republic, quickly submerged, forcing all 55 passengers to leap into the water. The group outing turned into a rescue mission across Samana bay, with the Dominican Navy conducting the operation.
TUI Cruises, the operator of the cruise departing from La Romana, stated that they are collaborating with the excursion provider and authorities to investigate the incident. A spokesperson from the travel company mentioned that the catamaran, operated by an external provider, sank during the excursion. TUI is coordinating closely with the provider and local officials to clarify the situation.
Local community members from El Crucero also joined in the rescue efforts. The port authority stated that the Dominican Republic Navy is cooperating with local authorities to identify those accountable and implement measures to prevent similar incidents.
All passengers were safely returned to the Mein Schiff 1 cruise ship, with the nationalities of the catamaran passengers currently undisclosed. The sinking is believed to have resulted from a hull leak, with ongoing investigations.
The Mein Schiff 1, capable of accommodating up to 4,000 guests, will proceed with its planned itinerary, with Jamaica as the next destination. Video footage captured the catamaran disappearing underwater, prompting Dominican vessels to provide assistance.
Following the rescue, overturned passengers expressed dissatisfaction with the cruise staff, citing lack of support. The TUI group operates a fleet of 18 ships under its three cruise lines, including Mein Schiff and Hapag-Lloyd from Germany, and Marella Cruises from British ports.
