WATCH: Tourists who were on the capsized catamaran describe the incident.
A Canadian is among the three people who are dead after a catamaran carrying roughly 100 foreign tourists capsized off the coast of Costa Rica Thursday.
The boat was on a trip to the popular Tortuga (Turtle) Island when it sank completely about 15 kilometres off the country’s central Pacific Coast, emergency officials said.
Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement to Global News they are aware one Canadian was killed in the incident and are providing assistance to the victim’s family.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the Canadian citizen who passed away,” said a Foreign Affairs spokesperson. “Canadian consular officials in Costa Rica are in contact with local authorities and are providing consular assistance to the family during this difficult time.”
Foreign Affairs could not offer any information “out of respect for the families involved.”
Hector Chavez, director of the Firefighters Corps, told the Associated Press survivors reported strong waves filled the boat with water causing it to sink.
The Public Security Ministry identified the nationality of victims as a U.S. citizen, a Canadian and a man from Britain.
Vice President Ana Helena Chacon told reporters at a news conference earlier Thursday 106 people were rescued, including the cruise’s 99 passengers and 10 crew members.
“We want to extend our condolences to the victims’ families,” Chacon said.
The National Meteorological Institute had issued a warning about strong winds buffeting the country this week, but authorities said the boat was properly permitted and authorized by the port captain to set sail.
Private boats in the area helped rescue passengers and were later transported to two emergency centres on shore.
According to the Associated Press the tour operator said the 100-foot catamaran, the Pura Vida Princess, left Marina Los Suenos Thursday morning.
*With files from the Associated Press
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