Two dead after boat capsizes in Lofoten

Two people have died after a boat capsized near Napp in Lofoten last Thursday, Norwegian police confirmed on Monday, Dagbladet reports.

Three people—a child of primary school age and two adults—were aboard the fishing vessel when it overturned in rough conditions. Rescue services, including a helicopter and lifeboat, retrieved all three from the water. Two were airlifted to the University Hospital of North Norway (UNN) in Tromsø in critical condition, while the third was taken to Nordland Hospital in Lofoten.

“Police have been informed that the two individuals transported to UNN in Tromsø have unfortunately died,” said Hedda Skaug, duty lawyer for Nordland Police District.

Initial reports from the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (HRS) on Thursday evening suggested the situation was under control. “We are in contact with them. No one is injured,” rescue leader Tommy Edvardsen told Dagbladet at 8:20 PM. However, the three were later found cold and wet, having been unable to don life jackets before the vessel capsized.

The boat’s liferaft deployed, but the occupants were forced to climb onto the hull. “Beyond that, we are uncertain about the sequence of events,” said HRS rescue leader Alexander Åkerøy Hundal.

Weather conditions at the time included strong winds, breaking waves, and swells of 3–4 meters, according to local reports. The incident occurred in Nappstraumen, a strait known for challenging tidal currents.

Police have not provided further details, citing an ongoing investigation.