Four foreign tourists and their guide were forced to jump into the water after their snorkeling boat exploded and caught fire near Bali, Indonesia, according to authorities. The incident occurred on Thursday in the waters of Gamat Bay off Nusa Penida, a popular snorkeling destination.
The boat, named Naomi, had planned stops at Manta Bay, Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay. About an hour into the excursion, as the boat was preparing to leave Gamat Bay, a loud explosion was heard from the end of the boat. The explosion is thought to have come from a battery component attached to the boat.
Flames then appeared, prompting the guide and four foreign guests to spontaneously jump into the sea to save themselves. A passing boat rescued the passengers and crew members around 2:50 p.m. Police reported that everyone survived, though the boat captain suffered serious burns to his legs and was taken to a hospital for treatment.
The boat had undergone routine repairs and maintenance before the incident, authorities said. The exact cause of the explosion and fire remains under investigation. The boat owner plans to make an official report after accompanying the captain who is undergoing treatment.
