BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — As discussions continue following Monday's maritime incident in which one of Apple Syder's vessels sank in the Caribbean, the St. Kitts and Nevis Coast Guard has released details surrounding the incident.
In a statement, the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force (SKNDF) said the Coast Guard "responded with speed and precision to a maritime distress incident involving the M/V Apple Syder Experience."
According to the SKNDF, the vessel reported a cracked pontoon and began taking on water. A distress call was received at approximately 8:33 a.m.
The vessel was carrying 51 people at the time — four crew members and 47 passengers — all of whom were safely evacuated before the vessel eventually sank.
Videos and photos circulated widely on social media shortly after the incident, showing the rescue operation and the vessel as it slipped beneath the water.
The M/V Makana responded after hearing the distress call and assisted with the rescue efforts, while the SKNDF Coast Guard immediately deployed rescue personnel and assets to the scene.
The submerged vessel was later towed back to Port Zante.
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew visited the rescued passengers at the Joseph N. France General Hospital shortly after the incident and confirmed that everyone who had been aboard the vessel had been accounted for.
