An Australian woman has tragically died, and two others sustained injuries, after a snorkelling tour boat capsized off the coast of Bali on March 21, 2025. The incident occurred around 8:30 AM local time when a large wave overturned the tour boat, Sea Dragon 2, which was carrying 13 people, including 11 Australian tourists, on an excursion to Nusa Penida, a small island famous for its marine life.
The victim, identified as Anna Maree, 39, from Canberra, was reportedly thrown overboard when a massive wave hit the boat. Eyewitness accounts describe how the initial wave sent her into the water, followed by a second wave that ultimately capsized the vessel. Local police spokesperson Agus Widiono confirmed that Maree’s body was later recovered, and she was pronounced dead shortly after being taken to a hospital.
Two other women from Australia were also injured in the incident. Gabriel Hijniakoff, 29, from Brisbane, and Cintamani Warington, 32, reportedly suffered burns to their upper thighs believed to be caused by the boat’s engine. They were treated at a local medical facility before being expected to be airlifted to Denpasar for further medical assistance.
According to reports, the Sea Dragon 2 boat encountered trouble in the turbulent waters of Klingking cove, famous among tourists for its breathtaking views and underwater scenery. Various accounts note that the boat had been managing well until it struck debris shortly before being hit by the high waves. It was later confirmed that the boat was operated by a tour company that provides excursions to Nusa Penida, a popular destination known for its stunning marine life and natural beauty.
A second boat from the same company quickly responded to the distress call, successfully rescuing 12 survivors, including both local crew members and injured tourists. Images released by Indonesian authorities depicted the terrifying scene with tourists clinging to the overturned boat and others in snorkelling gear swimming towards the rescue vessel.
This tragic accident highlights ongoing concerns regarding maritime safety in Indonesia, where boating is a common mode of transport but often plagued by poor enforcement of safety regulations. The vast archipelago consists of over 17,000 islands, making boats a vital and relatively inexpensive means for travel. However, as indicated by multiple reports, maritime accidents in this region have frequently resulted in fatalities, raising alarms among safety advocates and government officials.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has been informed of the incident and is providing assistance to the affected families, reflecting the ongoing diplomatic ties between Indonesia and Australia. As investigations continue, local officials are expected to scrutinize the operational practices of tour companies, especially those that conduct excursions into the treacherous waters surrounding Bali.
This incident is not the first of its kind in recent years; previous maritime accidents have claimed hundreds of lives due to overcrowded vessels and inadequate safety measures. In light of this accident, there are renewed calls for stricter safety protocols to ensure the well-being of tourists who flock to Indonesia’s picturesque waters.
As the families of the victims mourn their loss, discussions surrounding boating safety reform gain momentum. Authorities emphasize the importance of adherence to safety measures, which could prevent future tragedies.
While the waters surrounding Nusa Penida offer stunning sights, they can also harbor unpredictability, especially during inclement weather. This tragedy reminds tourists of the potential risks associated with maritime activities and highlights the need for informed choices regarding sea travel in the region.
In summary, the capsizing of the Sea Dragon 2 and the heartbreaking death of Anna Maree have sent shockwaves through the Australian community and sparked conversations about travel safety. As investigations progress, there is hope for a more robust framework governing tourist safety in the region, allowing future visitors to enjoy Indonesia’s famed islands with peace of mind.
