BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – All passengers and crew aboard the Apple Syder have been accounted for after the ferry began taking on water while travelling through the channel between St. Kitts and Nevis on Monday.
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew confirmed the update after visiting the Joseph N. France General Hospital, where several passengers were taken for medical evaluation following the rescue.
"I just left the hospital where I was updated that everyone from the ferry, Apple Syder, is safe," the Prime Minister wrote on social media. "Thanks to God, the emergency response teams, hospital staff, and civilians for their tremendous rescue efforts."
Videos circulating on social media showed the vessel being towed back to shore after it began to capsize. Other footage captured passengers being rescued from the water by responding vessels.
SKNVibes News understands that the Makana ferry answered the distress call and assisted in the rescue operation. In a statement posted on social media, the company clarified that its vessel was not the one in distress but had responded to provide assistance.
"We would like to clarify that Makana was not the vessel in distress. Our crew answered the call to assist alongside the St. Kitts and Nevis Coast Guard and others responding to the emergency," the statement said.
The company added, "We are thankful that all passengers and crew were brought safely ashore with no loss of life. Our thoughts are with the Apple Syder Ferry Company during this difficult time, and we wish them strength as they recover from this unfortunate incident."
The statement also thanked its passengers for remaining calm throughout the emergency.
"A heartfelt thank you to our passengers for remaining calm, understanding the situation, and allowing our crew to safely assist those in distress. Your patience and cooperation made it possible for us to help when it was needed most."
The company also praised its captain and crew for their professionalism during the rescue.
"We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to our captain and the entire Makana crew for their professionalism, bravery, experience, and selfless actions. Their calm leadership and commitment to the safety of others reflect the very best of our maritime community."
Minister of Marine Resources Samal Duggins also expressed concern over the incident while welcoming reports that everyone had been rescued safely.
"While we await official updates from the relevant authorities, I am encouraged by reports indicating that passengers and crew were safely rescued. Our thoughts remain with everyone who experienced this frightening ordeal, as well as their families and loved ones who anxiously awaited news," he said.
Duggins noted that maritime emergencies often revive painful memories for many citizens.
"For many in our Federation, any incident at sea stirs memories of tragedies that have touched our shores in the past. Today, however, we are grateful that this story appears to be one of survival, rescue, and the collective efforts of those who sprang into action when it mattered most."
Authorities have not yet released full details surrounding the incident, and investigations are expected to determine what caused the ferry to begin taking on water.
