A maritime emergency unfolded this morning when a Caribbean Sprinter water taxi vessel collided with a hazardous area known as ‘the cut off’ during its regular route from mainland Belize to the islands of Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. The incident occurred shortly after the vessel’s 10:30 a.m. departure, according to initial reports from local authorities.
Multiple passengers sustained injuries of varying severity in the impact, though specific numbers and conditions have not been officially confirmed. Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to the scene following distress calls, with rescue operations currently underway.
Eyewitness accounts from relatives of passengers describe a scene of chaos and trauma, with those on board reportedly experiencing significant shock following the sudden collision. The Caribbean Sprinter, which operates on a scheduled daily route between popular tourist destinations, was carrying both local residents and international visitors at the time of the accident.
Maritime safety investigators have launched a comprehensive inquiry to determine the exact circumstances that led to the vessel striking the well-known navigational hazard. The area where the collision occurred presents particular challenges to watercraft due to its unique underwater topography and strong currents.
Medical personnel are standing by at nearby facilities to receive and treat injured passengers as they are transported from the scene. The Belize Coast Guard has established a security perimeter around the incident site while recovery operations continue.
This incident represents one of the most significant maritime accidents in recent Belizean waters, raising immediate questions about safety protocols and navigational procedures for commercial water taxis operating in the region.