A snorkelling trip off the coast of Bali has ended in tragedy after a tourist boat carrying Australian visitors capsized in rough seas, killing a 39-year-old woman and leaving two others with serious injuries. The incident occurred near Nusa Penida, an island south-east of Bali that is popular for marine tourism but also known for hazardous sea conditions.
The death has sparked renewed attention on marine safety practices in Indonesian tourist waters, particularly along the exposed southern coastline of Nusa Penida, where powerful swells and fast-changing weather frequently pose risks to small vessels.
Departure from Sanur and Planned Route
On the morning of Friday, 21 March 2025, the snorkelling vessel Sea Dragon 2 departed from Sanur Port in Bali at approximately 8.30am local time. On board were 13 people, including 11 Australian tourists and two Indonesian crew members.
The boat was travelling towards Manta Point, a well-known snorkelling and diving location off the southern coast of Nusa Penida, famous for sightings of reef manta rays. The route from Sanur to Nusa Penida requires crossing open water that is exposed to strong swells, particularly when sea conditions deteriorate.
Authorities later clarified that the vessel involved was Sea Dragon 2, after early reporting referred more generally to Sea Dragon. A second boat operated by the same tour company, Sea Dragon 1, was later involved in rescue efforts.
Sea Conditions on the Day
Local authorities said sea conditions in the area were rough, with large and unpredictable waves reported along the southern coastline of Nusa Penida that morning. While no public confirmation has been issued regarding specific marine weather warnings at the time, the area is known for rapidly changing conditions, particularly around Kelingking Beach and nearby snorkelling sites.
Experienced operators and travel advisories have long noted that these waters can become unsafe quickly, even during routine tourist trips.
The Capsize Near Kelingking Beach
As Sea Dragon 2 approached waters near Kelingking Beach, passengers were observing underwater scenery from the vessel when a large wave struck the boat. According to Indonesian police, the force of the wave threw a 39-year-old Australian woman overboard.
Moments later, a second wave hit the vessel, causing it to capsize completely. The sudden rollover threw passengers and crew into the water, while others found themselves briefly trapped beneath the overturned hull before resurfacing.
Survivors later described the incident as abrupt and chaotic, with little warning before the vessel overturned.
Stranded at Sea Before Rescue
Following the capsize, passengers and crew were left stranded in the water and on the overturned boat. Reports indicate that survivors remained exposed to rough conditions for an extended period before full rescue was completed.
Emergency alerts were raised, prompting nearby vessels to respond. The tour operator’s second boat, Sea Dragon 1, was dispatched to the scene. A passing ferry also diverted after receiving a distress alert and assisted in the rescue operation.
Rescuers pulled 12 survivors from the water, including the two Indonesian crew members and injured Australian tourists. Survivors were transported back to Bali and taken to a nearby health clinic for assessment and treatment.
Despite rescue efforts, the woman who had been swept overboard was later found unresponsive. Her body was recovered from the water later the same day.
Victim Identified as Anna Maree Blight
The woman who died was identified as Anna Maree Blight, a 39-year-old Australian woman originally from Canberra, who had been living and working in Melbourne.
Ms Blight had recently celebrated her 39th birthday shortly before travelling to Bali. She worked as a director in advisory and restructuring at a Melbourne-based firm and was widely regarded by colleagues as a respected and accomplished professional.
Her family later described her as a deeply loved daughter, sister, aunt, niece and friend. They requested privacy while grieving her death.
Australians Seriously Injured in the Incident
Two other Australians on board Sea Dragon 2 sustained serious injuries during the capsize.
Gabriel Hijniakoff, 29, and Cintamani “Tam” Warrington, 32, both from Brisbane, suffered severe burns during or immediately after the incident. Reporting indicates the injuries were consistent with chemical or fuel-related burns, likely caused as the vessel overturned.
Ms Warrington suffered extensive burns across a large portion of her body and required urgent surgery. At one stage, she was reportedly unable to speak due to pain. Both injured Australians were hospitalised in Bali and later stabilised.
Family members launched a fundraising appeal to assist with medical costs and arrangements for their return to Australia. Updates later confirmed both were receiving ongoing care and pain management, with a prolonged recovery expected.
Eyewitness Accounts and Recorded Evidence
Footage recorded by another passenger, later identified as a Dutch tourist, captured moments shortly before the boat capsized. The video showed the vessel travelling through rough seas, with audio recording a female passenger expressing concern about the conditions shortly before the wave struck.
Survivors later described panic as waves hit the boat, passengers struggled to stay afloat, and others clung to the overturned hull. Some raised concerns about safety preparation, including the visibility and availability of life jackets, although authorities have not confirmed any breaches of safety requirements.
The footage has been referenced in media reporting and was understood to have been reviewed as part of the investigation.
Police Investigation and Findings
The incident is being investigated by Klungkung District Police, who oversee marine incidents in the Nusa Penida region.
Police spokesman Agus Widiono said the vessel was struck by powerful waves, causing it to overturn. Early findings pointed to natural sea conditions as the primary factor in the accident.
Police released photographs showing passengers sitting on top of the overturned vessel while awaiting rescue. Authorities confirmed that crew members and nearby boats assisted in rescue efforts.
As of the latest reporting, no arrests or criminal charges have been announced. The incident has been treated as a maritime accident, and there have been no findings of wrongdoing against the captain, crew, or tour operator.
Legal Status and Court Proceedings
No court cases have been initiated in Indonesia or Australia in connection with the incident. There has been no announcement of a prosecution, civil action, or formal inquest.
Deaths occurring overseas do not automatically trigger an Australian coronial process. While marine investigations can continue beyond initial reporting, no legal outcomes have been confirmed.
Status of the Vessel and Operator
There has been no public announcement regarding the suspension of the tour operator or the permanent removal of Sea Dragon 2 from service. Authorities have not disclosed whether the vessel was temporarily grounded or subject to further inspection following the incident.
DFAT Response and Support
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed it is providing consular assistance to Ms Blight’s family and to the injured Australians.
In a statement, a DFAT spokesperson expressed condolences to the family and confirmed support was also being provided to the injured tourists. Further details were not released due to privacy obligations.
Broader Marine Safety Context in Indonesia
Indonesia has experienced numerous maritime incidents in recent years, particularly involving small vessels operating in challenging conditions. Tourist boats frequently operate along routes where weather and sea states can change rapidly.
Nusa Penida’s southern coastline, including areas near Kelingking Beach and Manta Point, is widely known for strong swells, fast currents, and unpredictable wave patterns. Australian travel advice has long urged caution when participating in marine activities in the region.
The incident has renewed attention on trip planning, weather assessment, and safety briefings for tourists unfamiliar with local sea conditions.
A Trip That Ended in Tragedy
The death of Anna Maree Blight has left her family, friends, and colleagues grieving a life lost during what was meant to be a holiday. Survivors continue to recover from serious physical injuries and emotional trauma.
The incident stands as a reminder of the risks that can arise during marine tourism activities, even in popular destinations, and underscores the importance of safety awareness in unpredictable sea conditions.
Authorities have indicated that inquiries remain ongoing, and further information may be released if additional findings emerge.
Impact on Families, Friends, and the Australian Community
The death of Anna Maree Blight has had a profound impact on her family, friends, and colleagues across Australia. Tributes from those who knew her described a woman who was deeply connected to her loved ones and highly regarded in her professional life. Colleagues spoke of her leadership, warmth, and dedication, while friends remembered her as adventurous and generous in spirit.
For the injured Australians, the incident has marked the beginning of a long recovery process. Serious burn injuries often require extended hospital care, follow-up surgeries, and rehabilitation, along with ongoing psychological support. Family members travelling to Bali to assist with care arrangements faced logistical challenges, including emergency travel documentation and medical coordination overseas.
The incident also resonated more broadly within the Australian community, particularly given Bali’s long-standing popularity as a holiday destination for Australians. News of the tragedy prompted renewed public discussion around travel safety, marine tourism risks, and the importance of understanding local conditions when participating in ocean-based activities abroad.
Ongoing Questions Around Marine Safety and Oversight
While authorities have treated the incident as a maritime accident caused by sea conditions, the tragedy has raised broader questions about marine safety oversight in tourist-heavy regions of Indonesia. Small tour vessels often operate in exposed waters where conditions can change rapidly, placing significant responsibility on operators to assess risk and make real-time decisions.
Safety considerations such as vessel suitability, passenger briefings, access to life jackets, and the timing of departures remain areas of interest for travellers and regulators alike. Although no findings of wrongdoing have been made in this case, similar incidents in the region over recent years have highlighted the challenges of enforcing consistent safety standards across a vast maritime nation.
For Australian travellers, the incident underscores the importance of heeding travel advice, asking questions about safety procedures, and recognising that popular tourist routes can still present serious risks, particularly in rough sea conditions.
Conclusion
The fatal capsize of the snorkelling boat near Nusa Penida has left one Australian woman dead, two others seriously injured, and many more traumatised by a sudden and devastating event. What was intended to be a routine holiday excursion turned into a reminder of how quickly conditions at sea can change, even in well-known tourist destinations.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the family of Anna Maree Blight and those injured in the incident. The tragedy has also renewed attention on marine safety practices, decision-making at sea, and the need for travellers to remain aware of the risks involved in ocean activities.
For many Australians, the incident serves as a sobering reminder that while travel offers unforgettable experiences, it also demands caution, preparation, and respect for the unpredictable nature of the sea.
FAQs
Who was the Australian woman who drowned in Bali?
The Australian woman who died was Anna Maree Blight, a 39-year-old from Canberra who had been living and working in Melbourne. She died after being swept overboard when a snorkelling boat capsized near Nusa Penida.
How many Australians died in Bali?
In this specific incident, one Australian woman died. While Australians have died in Bali in separate, unrelated incidents over the years, each case is treated individually and circumstances vary.
Who was the Australian woman jailed in Bali for drugs?
One of the most well-known cases involved Schapelle Corby, an Australian woman jailed in Bali in 2005 after being convicted of drug trafficking. She later served time under parole arrangements before returning to Australia.
Who was the Australian woman injured in Bali?
In the snorkelling boat capsize, Cintamani “Tam” Warrington, a 32-year-old Australian from Brisbane, was seriously injured. She suffered severe burns and required hospital treatment and surgery.
Is $1,000 AUD enough for a week in Bali?
For budget travellers, $1,000 AUD may be enough for a week in Bali if accommodation, food, and activities are kept simple. Costs increase significantly for resorts, tours, and medical emergencies.
How many Australians are in jail in Bali?
At any given time, a small number of Australians are held in Indonesian prisons, including Bali, mostly for drug-related offences. Exact numbers change regularly and are not always publicly detailed.
Is Bali still a safe place to visit?
Bali remains a popular destination for Australians, but like any overseas location, risks exist, particularly around road safety, marine activities, and local laws. Travellers are advised to follow travel advice and exercise caution.
Can an Australian live in Bali permanently?
Australians cannot live in Bali permanently without the appropriate visa. Long-term stays are possible through work, retirement, or investor visas, but Indonesian residency laws must be followed strictly.
