According to reports from the regional radio and television station France 3 Côte d'Azur, the accident happened around 300 metres off the well-known beach of "Les Canoubiers" at around 2 am. An eight-metre-long inflatable boat carrying seven people collided with a so-called anchor box. Boats can moor to this, similar to an anchor ball, only larger and for superyachts.
The force of the impact was so strong that all the occupants were thrown out of the boat. The injured included men and women aged between 20 and 52. The emergency services were quickly on the scene and immediately administered first aid. Despite all efforts, the life of the 37-year-old man could not be saved. Three of the injured suffered such serious injuries that they required intensive medical care.
Party place at the Côte d'Azur
Saint-Tropez, synonymous with wealth, glamour and extravagant parties, regularly attracts celebrities and wealthy tourists. These include international stars such as Heidi Klum and Leonardo DiCaprio. Holidaymakers often use rubber dinghies to get ashore and back from their luxurious yachts, especially after long nights in the city's exclusive clubs.
It has not yet been officially confirmed whether the seven occupants of the boat involved in the accident were on their way back to their yacht after a night of partying. What is certain, however, is that such boats are often used on the Côte d'Azur as a comfortable and fast means of transport between the anchored yachts and the beaches.
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology
