A tourist boat trip near Akaroa, a small town on New Zealand’s South Island, turned frightening on Saturday when the vessel ran aground at Nikau Palm Valley Bay around 12:20pm. Over 40 passengers and crew were safely rescued by nearby boats after the Black Cat Cruises catamaran got into trouble during a wildlife tour.
Akaroa is about 85 kilometres southeast of Christchurch and is known for its scenic harbour and rare marine life, including Hector’s dolphins. The boat had been taking visitors to see these animals when the incident happened.
One passenger, Chris Friedman from San Francisco, said people became scared when they heard a loud noise, possibly from the boat hitting a rock, followed by a strange engine sound. The crew then noticed a strong petrol smell and saw the boat leaning to one side.
Everyone was told to put on life jackets and move to the top deck. That’s when water and smoke became visible, making some passengers very worried. Friedman said a teenager was crying, and an older woman was clearly upset, but most people stayed calm as they waited to be rescued.
Fortunately, no one was hurt, and all passengers were brought safely back to Akaroa’s main wharf.
Environment officials are now checking the area to make sure any fuel or debris from the boat doesn’t harm the environment. A safety zone has been set up around the boat to protect those responding to the situation.
Black Cat Cruises said this is the first time in over 40 years that something like this has happened. An investigation is now under way, and authorities are asking anyone who saw or recorded the event to come forward.
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