Three British tourists are missing after a massive fire engulfed a luxury boat undertaking a cruise in the Egyptian Red Sea. Local authorities said 12 additional UK nationals were on board the ship, located just off the coast of Marsa Alam, and have all been rescued.
The Foreign Office issued a statement saying it is “supporting” the Britons involved in the incident.
An FCDO spokesperson said: “We are in contact with local authorities following an incident aboard a dive boat near Marsa Alam, and are supporting British nationals involved.”
The cruiser was reportedly carrying a total of 29 people, with the other 14 on board believed to be Egyptian nationals.
All those rescued, including the members of the crew, are believed to have suffered no injuries.
Terrifying footage shared on social media shows massive flames bursting out of the stern of the ship, which bears the name “Hurricane”.
Large plumes of thick black smoke can also be seen rising in the air.
Initial reports suggest the fire was the result of an electrical fault.
An investigation into the cause of the fire has already begun, the BBC wrote.
READ MORE: British expat shot and partner killed after armed intruders smash into her home
The tourist boat left Port Ghalib in Marsa Alam on June 6 and was due to return on Sunday.
Hundreds of thousands of British tourists flock to Egypt every year, with the Red Sea being one of the most attractive destinations.
The Foreign Office said in 2022 alone, some 500,000 UK nationals flew to the African country for a holiday.