The tragic diving accident involving Belgian couple Kurt Hubrechts and Nathalie Fiers has reignited discussions about diving safety and legal accountability. Nearly six years ago, the Torhout couple drowned off the coast of Northern France during a dive trip meant to celebrate their two-year anniversary together. Despite exhaustive searches, Kurt’s body was never recovered.
- Koppel verdronk tijdens duikuitstap bij Noord-Franse kust
- Duikinstructeur kreeg aanvankelijk 3 maanden celstraf
- Rechter noemde foute beslissingen duikinstructeur belangrijk
- Man werd in beroep volledig vrijgesproken
- Familie startte cassatieprocedure tegen vrijspraak
- Cassatierechtbank vond geen procedurefouten aanwezig
On 2025-06-13 17:28:00, the diving instructor from Rumst who led the trip faced legal scrutiny. Initially sentenced to three months suspended prison for errors in judgment, his conviction was overturned on appeal. This development has left many wondering: who is truly responsible when diving regulations are ignored? And what protections exist for recreational divers in Belgium?
As the family pursues a cassation appeal, the case highlights critical questions about dive supervision and certification enforcement, especially when lives are at stake. The outcome could set important precedents for diving excursions involving Belgian participants abroad.
What lessons can Belgian divers and authorities draw from this case? It raises concerns about the responsibilities of dive leaders and the enforcement of certification rules. Key points include:
- The instructor’s decisions, such as changing the dive site and allowing uncertified deep diving, were initially deemed negligent.
- The appeal court’s acquittal suggests challenges in legally proving fault in diving accidents.
- Belgian divers must ensure proper certification and choose reputable guides to minimise risks.
- Legal clarity on liability in international dive incidents remains limited.
As the legal process continues, Belgian divers and families affected by similar accidents should advocate for clearer safety standards and better oversight. How can the diving community improve training and accountability to prevent future losses? This case may prompt stronger measures and awareness campaigns in Belgium’s diving circles.
