A South African superyacht crew member was allegedly murdered on a ship docked in the Bahamas, just days before her 21st birthday.

Paige Bell was missing for a short time before she was found dead in the engine room of the vessel in Harbour Island on the Island of Eleuthera shortly after 1pm on July 3.

The Royal Bahamas Police Force said she had clear signs of injuries.

A 40-year-old Mexican man was also found in the engine room with severe injuries to his arm in what police believe to be a suspected suicide attempt.

He was arrested and taken to a nearby clinic for medical treatment.

He has been charged with murder and awaits his court appearance in November.

Bell was from Johannesburg and would have celebrated her 21st birthday on July 14.

She worked aboard the Sweet Emocean until December before crewing for Far From It, which charters for at least $140,000 per week.

Her colleagues paid tribute to her, saying they were “heartbroken” to share the news of her passing.

“Paige was more than a teammate, she was family,” her colleagues said on GoFundMe.

“Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion made an unforgettable impact on everyone lucky enough to know her.

“Whether it was long days at sea or quiet moments under the stars, she brought light and warmth wherever she went.”

Investigations into her death are continuing.