Tour Boat from Mein Schiff 1 Capsizes in Samaná Bay – 55 Passengers Rescued – 10 November 2025

On 10 November 2025, the 12-meter excursion catamaran Boca de Yuma, carrying 55 cruise passengers from the Mein Schiff 1, suffered internal hull damage and sank in Samaná Bay, Dominican Republic. All 55 passengers were rescued by the Dominican Navy, local tour vessels, and coast-guard teams; no fatalities were reported, though several passengers sustained minor injuries and shock.

The Dominican Navy has launched an investigation into the cause of the sinking, with preliminary findings pointing to mechanical or structural failure within the hull. Authorities are also examining environmental factors and the vessel's recent maintenance and inspection records.

The catamaran began taking on water rapidly during a coastal sightseeing tour, prompting immediate distress calls to nearby ships and maritime authorities. Eyewitnesses reported passengers shouting for help as the vessel listed sharply and submerged within minutes. A coordinated response by nearby tour vessels, the Dominican Navy, and coast-guard teams stationed in Samaná recovered all 55 people from the water. Emergency responders provided first aid at the pier before transferring injured passengers to local medical facilities for evaluation.

Passengers

• 55 cruise passengers from Mein Schiff 1 onboard at the time of the sinking.

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• Several passengers sustained minor injuries and shock; treated onboard and transferred to local medical facilities for evaluation.

Rescued

• All 55 passengers safely recovered from the water and returned to Mein Schiff 1.

The Dominican Navy, local tour vessels, and coast-guard units stationed in Samaná coordinated a joint rescue operation. All passengers were recovered from the water and brought to safety; emergency responders provided first aid at the pier before transferring the injured to local medical facilities.

The Dominican Navy is leading the investigation into the cause of the sinking. Preliminary findings point to mechanical or structural failure within the catamaran's hull as the likely trigger. Authorities are examining environmental factors—such as sea state and wave height—at the time of the incident, and are reviewing the vessel's recent inspection records, maintenance logs, and operator compliance with safety protocols.

All rescued passengers have been safely returned to Mein Schiff 1, which was anchored in Samaná Bay. Tour organizers and the ship's management are cooperating fully with Dominican authorities. The incident has prompted a review of excursion-safety partnerships between cruise lines and local operators in Caribbean ports.