• An Australian woman died and two others were injured when a snorkeling boat capsized off Bali.
• The incident occurred due to rough seas while en route to Nusa Penida, a nearby island.
• Rescue operations involved a nearby vessel transporting survivors to safety.
• Maritime accidents raise ongoing safety issues in Indonesia’s popular boating industry.

On Friday morning, a snorkeling boat known as the Sea Dragon 2 capsized in turbulent waters off Indonesia's resort island of Bali, leading to the death of an Australian tourist, identified as Anna Maree, aged 39. The boat was carrying 16 people, including 11 Australian tourists, when it was struck by large waves while traveling to the popular destination of Nusa Penida. According to local authorities, the first wave threw Maree overboard, followed by a second wave that led to the boat capsizing in the Kelingking waters.

Rescue operations were quickly initiated, with a nearby vessel retrieving 12 survivors, including two local crew members and two injured tourists. While survivors were treated at a local health clinic and reported to be in stable condition, Maree's body was sadly recovered shortly after the incident. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia expressed condolences, stating they are providing consular support to the affected families.

The incident raises serious concerns regarding safety in Indonesia's maritime activities, where accidents have become alarmingly frequent, often attributed to overcrowding and inadequate enforcement of safety regulations. In the past, maritime disasters in the archipelago, which consists of over 17,000 islands, have resulted in numerous fatalities. The continued popularity of boat transport, despite these risks, underscores the need for stronger safety measures in the industry.

For more details, view the full report from The Jakarta Post.