NUSA PENIDA, Bali — Four foreign tourists and a snorkeling guide jumped into the sea after an explosion was heard moments before their boat caught fire in the waters of Gamat Bay, Nusa Penida.
The incident happened at around 1:40 p.m. on Thursday as the snorkeling boat Naomi was preparing to leave Gamat Bay in Sakti Village.
According to Klungkung Police, the boat had departed from its operational base at around 12:30 p.m. carrying four foreign tourists on a private snorkeling trip to Manta Bay, Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay.
Guide Made Wirya told authorities that safety equipment and the technical condition of the boat had been checked before departure.
As the vessel was preparing to leave Gamat Bay, a loud explosion was suddenly heard from one section of the boat.
Police said the explosion was initially suspected to have originated from a battery component installed on the vessel. Flames then appeared, prompting the guide and all four foreign tourists to immediately jump into the sea.
Another boat passing through the area came to their assistance at around 2:50 p.m. and evacuated the passengers and crew.
No deaths were reported, and all four tourists and the guide were rescued safely.
However, the captain of the Naomi suffered burns to his legs and was taken to the emergency department at Gema Santhi Hospital in Nusa Penida for medical treatment.
Police said the boat had undergone repairs and routine maintenance before the incident.
The exact cause of the explosion and fire has not yet been determined. Nusa Penida Police are continuing to collect statements and other information as part of the investigation.
Authorities have not released the nationalities or identities of the four foreign tourists.
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