What was meant to be a relaxed holiday to a resort on Turkey's southwest coast turned into a terrifying rescue attempt when the pirate-themed tourist boat began to sink with dozens of passengers.

The pirate-themed excursion boat named the 'Big Boss Diamond' normally ferrying people from the resort of Marmaris, began to slowly sink with its passengers on board while mid-voyage on Friday morning. It had left Marmaris with 148 people, including 20 children, for a five-hour journey to Paradise Island.

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The witness said that passengers frantically ran for the exit as the boat listed rapidly and began filling with water. The chaotic scene erupted on the vessel as tourists were desperate to reach safety on the rescue boats, some taking to the water with their life jackets while other boatmen helped pull individuals to safety.

"The engine blew," NDTV quoted a passenger Another survivor expressed relief after being rescued, saying she was "glad to be off it and alive".

Footage uploaded online also showed people jumping from the boat, which was listing dramatically before finally sinking beneath the waves.

Large Scale Rescue Operation

Coast guards, rescue boats and local officials worked swiftly together to evacuate the boat, with all passengers reaching shore safely. Officials stated that everyone onboard had been accounted for. No fatalities were recorded, though a few passengers were treated for minor injuries and shock.

Investigation Underway

The cause of the incident is currently not known, and an official investigation has been launched to determine how the boat sank. The Mugla Governor's Office stated that rescue operations were quickly set in motion after they received reports of the situation.

"Following the report, teams dispatched to the area coordinated the evacuation of our citizens on the boat, with the support of nearby boats," the administration said in a statement. It further added, "Checks revealed no casualties, injuries, or health problems. The evacuated citizens were safely brought to shore."

Operator Assures Tourists

Following the incident, the boat operator addressed concerns through a social media post. "Dear guests and friends, thank you very much for asking and worrying about us," Big Boss Diamond wrote on Instagram. The company added, "We are all safe and fine."

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Customers were also advised that the party cruises will continue aboard another ship during repairs to the sunken vessel. The cause of the sinking was not made known to the boat operator.

Turkey’s largest pirate ship, the Big Boss Diamond, has proved to be more of a favourite with tourists now more than ever before. The company advertises it as something the family can enjoy: "When the kids are playing in the soft play area, parents can have a party upstairs."

The ship has been popular with tourists for some time, with cruises along the Turkish coast being themed around it.