BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — All 47 passengers and crew aboard the inter-island ferry Apple Syder were safely rescued on Monday after the vessel experienced severe difficulties and sank shortly after departing St. Kitts for Nevis.
According to the St. Kitts & Nevis Observer, the incident occurred just minutes after the ferry left Basseterre on its routine voyage to Charlestown. The vessel’s distress prompted a swift emergency response involving the St. Kitts and Nevis Coast Guard, the Makana ferry and other local responders.
In a statement, Makana Ferry clarified that its vessel was not the one in distress but responded after receiving a call for assistance. The company said its crew joined the rescue effort alongside the Coast Guard and other emergency services, confirming that all passengers and crew from the Apple Syder were brought safely ashore without loss of life.
Makana also thanked its own passengers for remaining calm while the crew diverted to assist those in distress, and praised its captain and crew for their professionalism and swift response during the rescue operation.
A passenger aboard the Makana described the incident as frightening and said the ferry was among the first vessels to reach the scene. The witness also said the Coast Guard later towed the stricken vessel toward the harbor. BES-Reporter has not been able to independently verify those details.
Government leaders in both St. Kitts and Nevis said they were closely monitoring the emergency. Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew said he had remained in constant contact with the Commander of the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force and had been assured that every available resource had been deployed to rescue those aboard the ferry.
Nevis Premier Mark Brantley also confirmed he had been briefed on the incident, saying his office had received reports that all passengers and crew were safe. He expressed gratitude to the Coast Guard and all those involved in the rescue operation.
Cause not yet known
Authorities have not yet announced what caused the Apple Syder to encounter difficulties or sink. No injuries or fatalities have been officially reported.
