They go out on a boat for their bachelor party, but it sinks: seven rescued on the Amalfi Coast. The toast is interrupted by the breakdown and the shipwreck

A group of seven friends celebrating a bachelor party turned their day of festivities into a harrowing ordeal when their boat sank off the Amalfi Coast on Sunday, July 5th. The incident occurred near the coastal towns of Maiori and Capo d'Orso, where the vessel, approximately ten meters in length, was forced to sink due to a critical technical failure. The event has raised concerns about safety measures and maintenance protocols for private boats used for recreational purposes in popular tourist areas. The journey began early in the morning from the Santa Teresa dock in the port of Salerno. Onboard were a businessman from Pontecagnano and his closest friends, who had planned to celebrate the upcoming wedding with a meal at sea, sailing along the coast of Amalfi and Positano. However, during the outbound trip, problems arose as the boat started taking on water. The owner noticed this issue while navigating near Maiori, where the hull gradually filled with seawater. Matters worsened when the bilge pump, an essential electrical device designed to expel water from the boat, became blocked. This malfunction left the crew unable to remove the accumulating water, forcing them to consider turning back toward the port of origin. Despite efforts to return safely, the situation escalated rapidly. As they approached Capo d'Orso, just a quarter-hour away from the safety of Salerno’s harbor, the weight of the water onboard exceeded the structural capacity of the boat. Consequently, the vessel capsized completely. In the immediate aftermath, several boaters in the vicinity came upon the scene and assisted in the initial rescue of the passengers. These individuals played a crucial role in ensuring the survival of the group before the arrival of the Port Authority's emergency response units. The rescued individuals were taken aboard the Port Authority vessels without serious injuries and transported safely to the docks in Salerno. The swift action of both the nearby boaters and the official maritime authorities helped prevent more severe consequences. The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of maritime travel, particularly in regions known for their scenic beauty but also for challenging sea conditions. The event underscores the importance of proper boat maintenance and preparedness for emergencies at sea. While the exact cause of the bilge pump failure remains under investigation, the incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with recreational boating, even in seemingly calm waters. Authorities have been urged to review and reinforce safety guidelines for private vessels operating in such environments. As investigations continue, local officials and maritime experts will likely examine whether there were lapses in pre-trip checks or if additional safety equipment could have mitigated the risk. The experience of these seven men, who narrowly escaped disaster, may prompt broader discussions about the need for enhanced training and resources for boaters in the region. Their story, though fortunate in outcome, offers a sobering lesson about the unpredictability of life on the water and the necessity of vigilance and preparation.