We like to talk about adding new live-aboards, but that’s hardly been the case of late. The Maldivian ship Barutheela, which we reviewed in August, 1998, recently ran aground on a reef at Embudu. Passengers were evacuated, but owners were unable to budge her. Apparently there’s a new owner, who hopes to salvage the vessel and have it reconstructed within the next few months.

Indonesia’s Sea Contacts 2 was scheduled to leave Bali on February 19 when she caught fire and sunk about five miles southeast of Sanur beach. The fire apparently began in the engine room and quickly spread through the main salon and stairways leading to guest cabins. The crew was unable to extinguish the blaze, and the boat’s crew, six guests, and two dive guides were forced to evacuate in Sea Contacts' three life rafts and two dive tenders. All safely reached the shore at the Sanur Beach Hotel, but over 90% of the craft reportedly burned. Police are investigating the incident and apparently have not ruled out arson as the cause of the blaze.

The Sea Contacts I is still making Bali to Komodo trips, but I'm hoping they don't throw in the towel after the fire — and that they replace the lost boat so I can get back out to the Banda Sea.

Forward this article to your dive buddy