The Italian surfer Giulia Manfrini, 36, was surfing off the Indonesian island of Siberut when she was injured by a swordfish on the left side of her chest, reports CNN.
Two people were near Manfrini when the accident occurred and quickly got her to the hospital, but her life could not be saved.
"Despite the brave efforts of her partner, local staff, and doctors, Giulia could not be saved. We think she died doing what she loved, in a place she loved", writes Manfrini's business partner James Colston on Instagram.
Together, they ran a company that organized trips to popular surfing destinations, including the Mentawai Islands where the accident occurred.
"Giulia couldn't go anywhere without people falling in love with her smile, laughter, and personality. We love you Giulia. It hurts me to say goodbye", writes Colston.