AI-ILLUSTRATIONThe incident occurred on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at about 4:30 pm.
The boat was carrying tourists, tour guides and crew members on a return journey to Watamu Beach when strong ocean waves hit it, causing it to capsize.
The passengers included six Italian tourists who had checked into their hotel on August 22 and were scheduled to check out on September 1, 2026.
Five local tourists and three tour guides were also on board, alongside two crew members, officials said.
The occupants raised an alarm for help after the boat capsized, prompting local community divers to respond using boats.
The rescuers brought all the occupants to safety, but two women were found unconscious and rushed to hospital, where police said they were pronounced dead on arrival.
The deceased were identified as Alice Wambui, 35, and Janira Sarah, 26, who was among the tour guides.
The other occupants were rescued and taken to local hospitals for medical checks.
Police officers visited the scene as Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) officers from Malindi processed and documented it, before the two bodies were moved to Malindi Sub-County Hospital Mortuary awaiting postmortem examinations.
Local officials said there had been a rise in cases of boats capsizing in the waters.
Tourism is currently at its peak, with visits to the ocean among the popular activities in the area.
Local officials have urged guides to exercise caution while venturing into the ocean because of unpredictable weather.
Officials said those responsible for the tour guides had been taking measures to enhance the safety of visitors, including having several boats move together.
