Tayrona National Natural Park boat accident kills Spanish tourist

A 31-year-old Spanish tourist, Noelia Maximino, died on August 11, 2026, after a boat capsized near Cabo San Juan in Colombia’s Tayrona National Natural Park. The accident occurred when a group of travelers attempted to return from the area by sea to avoid a long land trek.

Survivors reported that the vessel lacked sufficient life jackets for all passengers. One witness stated that passengers were informed there were no more life jackets available, but they were unable to refuse boarding before the boat departed. The incident left approximately 20 people in the water.

The General Maritime Directorate (DIMAR) and the port captain of Santa Marta have launched an investigation into the incident. Authorities confirmed that the vessel was not authorized to provide passenger transport services and had departed from an unauthorized point in Buritaca.