Cruise Excursion Boat Capsizes Off Colombia’s Coast
A routine cruise excursion off Colombia’s coast turned into a near disaster for 38 passengers aboard AIDAbella, a cruise ship owned by Carnival Corporation. On March 20, 2025, the boat carrying these tourists capsized near the Barú Peninsula, Cartagena. What started as a peaceful island-hopping journey quickly turned into a harrowing experience when strong winds and rising waves overwhelmed the small vessel. While the incident was terrifying, quick thinking and prompt rescue efforts ensured no one was seriously injured.
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Strong Winds and High Waves Overwhelm Excursion Boat
On the afternoon of March 20, 2025, the excursion boat, carrying passengers from AIDAbella, capsized as it attempted to return to the cruise ship. The weather conditions, which included gusty winds and rough seas, led to the vessel overturning, leaving all 38 passengers in the water. Video footage from the scene showed the terrified tourists struggling in the rough waves, while nearby boats rushed to their aid. The passengers, mostly German nationals and two Colombians, were pulled from the water and returned to the ship. Despite the panic, fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Troubling History of Incidents in the Region
This capsizing is part of a troubling trend near Cartagena. Just weeks earlier, on March 2, another excursion boat capsized, involving 42 non-cruise tourists. The incident was caused by a failure in the boat’s bow, which allowed water to flood the vessel. Fortunately, in both cases, the Colombian Coast Guard and nearby vessels were able to rescue all passengers, but these two incidents within the span of a month have raised concerns about the safety and regulation of tour boats in the region. Colombian authorities require boats to adhere to safety regulations, including providing life jackets, but uneven enforcement has led to warnings from various governments, including the U.S. and Canada.
Cruise Line Liability
Cruise lines, including AIDA Cruises, typically vet their excursion operators carefully. However, in regions where local regulations are less consistent, accidents can still happen. Cruise lines are legally responsible for excursions that take place during their itineraries. In cases like this, they are expected to cancel excursions when weather conditions pose a risk and promptly issue refunds to affected guests.
How to Stay Safe on Cruise Excursions
Although capsizing incidents are rare, they emphasize the importance of being vigilant during shore excursions. Here are some tips for staying safe on water-based excursions:
- Always wear a life jacket, even if it’s not required.
- Research excursion providers before booking and ensure they follow safety regulations.
- Stay aware of weather forecasts and avoid excursions when conditions are unsafe.
- Speak up if a vessel seems overloaded or poorly maintained.
By staying informed and cautious, passengers can help ensure their safety on these adventurous shore excursions.
