One Canadian among dead in Costa Rica catamaran disaster, officials say
Digital Reporter
Friday, January 9, 2015, 10:13 AM -
An unidentified Canadian is among three foreign tourists who died in a marine accident off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica on Thursday, emergency officials said.
Dozens of tourists were taking a pleasure cruise aboard a 30-metre catamaran when high waves caused the boat to sink about 15 kilometres off the country's central Pacific Coast.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Firefighters Corps director Hector Chavez says initial reports of an explosion and fire were mistaken. He says survivors reported that strong waves filled the boat with water and caused it to sink.
A boat, which was on a day trip to the popular Tortuga (Turtle) Island, sank about 15 kilometres off Costa Rica's central Pacific Coast on Thursday. (Image: Google)
Survivors said they were given lifejackets shortly before the boat sank.
"We were floating in the ocean. Many people were crying, screaming, asking for help," an unidentified woman told local television.
Costa Rican officials say an American citizen and a man from Britain were the other victims.
Vice President Ana Helena Chacon said at a news conference that 106 people were rescued, meaning all of the cruise's 99 passengers and 10 crew were accounted for. She praised the work of the lifeguards, security ministry and the Red Cross.
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"We want to extend our condolences to the victims' families," Chacon said.
Foreign Affairs in Ottawa has confirmed the death of the Canadian and says its consular officials are in contact with the victim's family. Further information about the victim was not revealed due to privacy concerns.
Forecasters had issued a warning about strong winds buffeting the country this week, but authorities say the boat was properly permitted and authorized by the port captain to set sail.
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With files from The Associated Press and BBC News.
