A couple of passengers aboard a cruise ship chartered by Quark Expeditions died after a zodiac boat overturned during a trip close to Elephant Island (Antarctica, South Shetlands) earlier this week.
Quark Expeditions confirmed the accident in a statement on Friday morning, November 18.
The polar adventure travel company wrote they were deeply saddened to confirm that there had been a tragic accident during a zodiac excursion from the World Explorer ship, chartered by Quark Expeditions, close to Elephant Island in the Antarctic on November 15, 2022.
The company confirmed that a zodiac boat carrying 6 passengers and 2 expedition staff had overturned near shore, resulting in 2 fatalities.
The weather conditions consisted of light winds/smooth sea, but indications were the accident had been caused by a breaking wave.
The other 4 passengers and 2 staff are recovering under the observation of the doctors and medical staff onboard, Quark Expeditions said.
The vessel is currently returning back to port.
The company said their priority right now was supporting them, their passengers, and crew while they investigated further.
“We will continue to work with, and offer our assistance to, those involved during this difficult time, including full cooperation with the relevant authorities.”
At the time of the accident, World Explorer was on a 14-night South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Penguin Safari Cruise and Land Tour roundtrip from Ushuaia (Argentina).