Dozens of cruise passengers were rescued on Sunday, November 9, after their excursion catamaran, Boca de Yuma, sank in the waters of Samaná Bay, Dominican Republic. The Dominican Navy confirmed the incident in an official statement, crediting swift coordination between naval officers, nearby vessels, and cruise staff for the successful rescue.
According to the Navy, the 40-foot catamaran began taking on water after a malfunction inside the hull. Two Dominican crew members, including the captain, were on board alongside around 50 passengers from the Mein Schiff 1, a German cruise ship operated by TUI Cruises.
“All guests are safe and were returned to Mein Schiff 1 immediately after the rescue,” TUI Cruises said in a statement. The company added that the accident may have been caused by “a collision with an object in the water,” and confirmed that pastoral care and compensation were offered to those affected. Remarkably, all guests chose to continue their voyage.
Local media outlet Listín Diario reported that the vessel belonged to a tour operator active in the Los Haitises area, a popular ecotourism destination known for its limestone islets and mangrove forests. Preliminary reports suggest a handful of passengers sustained minor injuries, though no fatalities occurred.
Authorities have launched a joint investigation into the cause of the sinking. In its follow-up statement, the Dominican Navy emphasized ongoing efforts “to determine responsibilities and take preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.”
The rapid response highlights both the efficiency of the Dominican Republic’s maritime safety protocols and the importance of strong coordination between local authorities and international cruise operators—a reminder of the unpredictable nature of ocean travel, even in idyllic Caribbean waters.