Ferry sinks off Nevis; all passengers rescued
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance M. Drew has announced that all 47 passengers and crew aboard the inter island ferry Apple Syder were rescued after the vessel sank in Basseterre harbour last Monday shortly after departing for Nevis. He later visited the J. N. France General Hospital where those rescued were taken and confirmed that everyone was safe.
Ferry sinks off Nevis
Speaking after receiving an update from hospital officials, Dr. Drew expressed gratitude for the outcome and praised those involved in the emergency operation. “I just left the hospital where I was updated that everyone from the ferry, Apple Syder is safe. Thanks to God, the emergency response teams, hospital staff, and civilians for their tremendous rescue efforts,” he said, adding that additional information would be released when available.
The Prime Minister said he had monitored developments from early Monday and remained in regular communication with the Commander of the Defence Force. According to Dr. Drew, every available resource was mobilised to protect the lives of those aboard the ferry.
Nevis Premier Mark Brantley also confirmed that initial reports indicated all passengers and crew had survived the accident. “At this point the information is that all passengers and crew are safe. We are grateful to our Coast Guard. We are grateful to God,” he said.
Videos circulating on social media showed the Apple Syder encountering difficulties before sinking within minutes of leaving Basseterre. Footage captured passengers wearing life jackets while floating in the water as rescue teams brought them to safety.
The Office of the Prime Minister said the Government would continue monitoring the situation and thanked everyone who participated in the rescue effort.
Authorities are expected to begin an investigation into the cause of the incident. Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas said the event recalled the 1970 MV Christena disaster, in which 233 people lost their lives after the overcrowded ferry sank while carrying more than 300 passengers during the Emancipation holiday.
