Indonesia said Wednesday a cruise ship on a voyage organized by a British company had damaged about 18,900 square meters of coral reef, increasing the estimate of the devastation caused when the vessel ran aground. The accident happened this month in Raja Ampat, eastern Indonesia, one of the most biodiverse marine habitats on Earth and a favorite with intrepid travelers and divers due to its palm-fringed islands, coral and fish. The incident in West Papua province infuriated the government, who last week summoned the British ambassador to protest, while local residents believe it will impact the tourism industry and the livelihoods of fishermen.

Cruise ruins 18,900 sqm of coral reef in Indonesia. (2017, March 23). BusinessWorld, p. S1/10.