Dutch tourist dies in boat capsize during Iguazu Falls excursion

A tragic accident at the Iguazu Falls has claimed the life of a 26-year-old Dutch tourist, Mark Lensink, during a boat excursion on the Brazilian side. The incident occurred on Tuesday while Lensink and his family were participating in the popular Macuco Safari tour.

Eight individuals were on board the vessel when it capsized in the Iguazu River: six Dutch tourists, all reportedly family members, and two crew members. Video footage captured by a bystander shortly after the incident shows the overturned boat and one person on nearby rocks, as well as the rescue operation underway.

While the exact cause of the capsizing is still under investigation by Brazilian authorities, initial reports suggest Lensink drowned and suffered cardiac arrest. He received first aid after being rescued and was transported to a local hospital, but medical personnel were unable to revive him.

Several other passengers were treated for injuries. Three women and one man received on-site assistance and returned to their families, while two others were admitted to the Municipal Hospital of Foz and are reported to be out of danger. The Brazilian Navy is leading the investigation, scrutinizing potential human error, technical malfunctions, or environmental conditions, and reviewing the safety protocols for such excursions.