BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — What could have become one of the Caribbean's worst maritime disasters in recent years ended in a remarkable rescue operation Monday morning after the well-known inter-island ferry Apple Syder began sinking just minutes after departing the Basseterre Ferry Terminal for Charlestown, Nevis.
Thanks to a swift emergency response involving the St. Kitts and Nevis Coast Guard, nearby vessels, fishermen and civilians, all 47 passengers and crew members aboard the ferry were safely rescued.
The incident unfolded shortly after the vessel left the terminal. Reports indicate that the ferry had not yet passed the western cruise pier when an emergency developed onboard. According to one passenger, a loud noise was suddenly heard before water began to rapidly enter the cabin, prompting panic among those on board.
Videos circulating on social media showed frightened passengers and crew wearing life jackets as the vessel gradually took on water before sinking. Other footage captured nearby boats rushing toward the stricken ferry as people were evacuated from the vessel.
The rescue operation quickly expanded as the MV Makana, local fishing boats and the Coast Guard converged on the area to assist. Their rapid response is being credited with preventing any loss of life.
Despite the frightening ordeal, there were no immediate reports of fatalities. Authorities had not yet released details on any injuries or the condition of those rescued.
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew confirmed throughout the morning that government officials were closely monitoring the emergency.
"I have been in constant contact with the Commander of the Defense Force and have been assured that every available resource has been deployed in the effort to save the lives of all those on board the ferry, Apple Syder," the Prime Minister wrote on social media during the rescue operation.
In a later update after visiting the hospital, Dr. Drew announced the positive outcome.
"I just left the hospital where I was updated that everyone from the ferry, Apple Syder, is safe. Thanks to God, the emergency response teams, hospital staff, and civilians for their tremendous rescue efforts."
Premier Mark Brantley of Nevis also confirmed that everyone aboard had survived.
"My office received news of an accident at sea involving one of our inter-island ferries. At this point, the information is that all passengers and crew are safe. We are grateful to our Coast Guard. We are grateful to God," Brantley stated.
The Apple Syder is one of the regular passenger ferries operating between St. Kitts and Nevis, a route relied upon daily by commuters, students, workers and visitors traveling between the two islands.
As news spread across the Federation, hundreds of residents followed developments via live video feeds and social media updates, expressing concern for those on board while praising the rescue teams for their rapid response.
At the time of publication, the St. Kitts and Nevis Coast Guard, an arm of the St. Kitts-Nevis Defense Force, had not yet issued an official statement explaining what caused the vessel to begin taking on water.
A formal marine investigation is expected to determine whether the incident resulted from mechanical failure, structural damage, human error or another cause.
Monday's incident is expected to raise serious questions regarding ferry safety inspections, emergency preparedness and maintenance standards for vessels operating on one of the Federation's busiest maritime routes.
For now, however, what began as a terrifying emergency at sea has ended with the outcome every family had hoped for: every passenger and crew member survived.
Source: Television Caribbean News
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