TUI has reassured concerned customers following an incident where passengers on a catamaran had to jump overboard as it sank in the Caribbean. The small vessel was ferrying passengers from the Mein Schiff 1 cruise ship during a stop in the Dominican Republic when it submerged, forcing all 55 passengers to leap into the water. The outing ended with holidaymakers adrift in Samana bay before being rescued by the Dominican Navy.
TUI Cruises, the operator of the cruise, stated that they are collaborating with the trip provider and authorities to investigate the incident. The cruise line confirmed that the catamaran belonged to an external provider and is working closely with them and local officials to understand what happened.
Local community members from El Crucero also aided in the rescue efforts. The Dominican Republic Navy, in conjunction with local authorities, is striving to identify those accountable for the incident and implement measures to avoid its recurrence.
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 been caused by a hull leak, with ongoing investigations into the matter.
The Mein Schiff 1 cruise ship, capable of hosting up to 4,000 guests, will proceed with its planned itinerary, with Jamaica as the next destination. Video footage captured the moment the catamaran sank, prompting Dominican vessels to assist.
Some rescued passengers expressed dissatisfaction with the cruise staff, claiming they were not properly assisted. The TUI group operates 18 ships across its cruise lines, with two operating from Germany and Marella Cruises departing from British ports.