Four foreign tourists and a guide jumped into the sea after their snorkeling boat exploded and caught fire near Bali, Indonesian authorities said. Everyone was rescued, though the captain suffered serious burns to his legs.
The boat, named Naomi, was carrying the group on an excursion around Nusa Penida, with planned stops at Manta Bay, Crystal Bay and Gamat Bay. About an hour into the trip, as the boat was preparing to leave Gamat Bay on Thursday, a loud explosion came from its rear, police said.
Investigators believe the blast may have involved a battery component attached to the boat. Flames broke out, prompting the guide and four tourists to jump overboard.
A passing boat rescued the passengers and crew at about 2:50 p.m., according to Bali police. The captain was taken to Gema Santhi Regional Hospital for emergency treatment.
Authorities said Naomi had received routine repairs and maintenance before the incident. The cause of the explosion and fire is still under investigation. The boat’s owner plans to file an official report after accompanying the captain to the hospital, officials said.
Nusa Penida lies about 15 miles southeast of Bali and is known for its clear waters, coastal cliffs and snorkeling sites. Bali welcomed nearly 7 million foreign visitors in 2025, almost 10% more than the year before, according to Indonesia’s statistics agency.
Recent boating incidents elsewhere have also put travelers at risk. Last year, a couple on holiday in England jumped into the River Thames to help six people, including four children, after a boat exploded and caught fire. Earlier this year, a crew member died and four passengers were hospitalized when a fire broke out aboard a cruise ship near Singapore.
