On the night of September 28, 1994, the passenger ferry M/S Estonia sent out a distress call at 1:22 AM.

Within an hour, the ship had sunk in the cold waters of the Baltic Sea, claiming 852 lives and leaving a deep scar on the nation.

Survivors recall the chaos as the ship capsized rapidly, with water flooding the car deck after the bow visor detached.

Only 137 of the 989 people on board survived the tragedy.

The disaster was attributed to the under-dimensioned locks and fastenings of the bow visor, leading to calls for further investigation into the rapid sinking.

As the 30th anniversary approaches, survivors and families continue to seek answers and justice for the lives lost.