Yesterday in Russia, a river cruise carrying a reported 208 passengers sank in the Volga during a storm. The ship, built in 1955, with no modernization completed since, reportedly tilted drastically during the storm. Compounded by the Captain trying to turn the vessel around, the tilt allowed water to rush into open portholes, which were open due to lack of air conditioning on the vessel. The ship sunk in a matter of minutes. New reports from rescued passengers suggest that locking emergency doors may have also added to the tragedy, preventing more people from escaping. 80 people were rescued by another boat shortly after, and no other survivors are expected to be found. Some witnesses report that two other boats passed during the tragedy without offering help. The boat, which only had a capacity for 120 people, was carrying 208, and there are conflicting reports on whether or not it was actually cleared for cruising. Reports from investigators suggest that the boat set sail with one of the engines not working properly, and a visible right- tilt.
Short cruises in Russia, like this one, are popular for travelers who cannot afford international travel, and every summer, hundreds of ships like this one set sail on the Volga, which is Europe's longest river.