EXPLOSION AT PORT Crewmembers still missing

Posted on 07/22/2016

Aqua Expeditions’ Aqua Amazon sustained an onboard explosion, as it was refueling/restocking in Iquitos, resulting in the ship sinking. No passengers were on board at the time, but many of the 20 crew members were injured. Two people died and four others are still unaccounted for.

Passengers affected have since been reassigned to the Expedition’s Aria, and those booked on future cruises will be notified of the reassigned vessel.
Details of the tragedy have been posted online from Francesco Galli Zugaro, Aqua Expeditions Founder and CEO.
A July 19, 2016 statement from Francesco Galli Zugaro:
Following the tragic incident involving the Aqua Amazon on Saturday, July 16, all of our efforts at Aqua Expeditions have been focused on finding the members of our crew who were on board at the time of the accident and were reported missing after the explosion that caused the vessel to capsize. Many of the crew have been with me from 2007 when we started. I considered them dear friends, not just employees.
It was first thought that four crew were unaccounted for, however, this figure rose to five on Sunday night when another crew member could not be located. In addition, there are two external suppliers who are also victims, bringing the total missing to seven people.
As of 17:00 EST Monday, July 18, two of the victims have been identified and recovered. Five more remain to be found.
There are an additional eight crew members in recovery in the hospital following the explosion. Three are in intensive care and the remaining five are receiving all necessary medical attention. We are assuring them the best medical treatment possible. We have been in close contact with the crews’ families and have been keeping them fully informed of news of their loved ones during this very difficult time.
The source of the fire and explosion is yet to be determined as preliminary investigations are still underway. We are supporting all efforts by the authorities and will continue to do so throughout the process.
Our guests, industry partners, families and friends have given me and everyone at Aqua Expeditions the strength and commitment to stay united and face this tragedy together. We are overwhelmed with the show of support that is continuing to pour in from all over the world and we continue to be eternally thankful.
We will keep you informed of all future developments.
Sincerely,
Francesco Galli Zugaro