Indian Coast Guard Rescues US Yacht and Two Crew Members in Turbulent Andaman Waters
12 July 2025 | Port Blair
In a daring and swift operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully rescued a distressed US-flagged yacht and its two crew members stranded in rough seas southeast of Indira Point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, officials confirmed on Friday.
The dramatic rescue unfolded after the ICG’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Port Blair received an urgent distress alert from the US Consulate in Chennai at 11:57 am on July 10. The alert reported that the sailing yacht Sea Angel, carrying one American and one Turkish national, was disabled and adrift approximately 52 nautical miles southeast of Indira Point — the southernmost tip of India.
According to senior ICG officials, the vessel had suffered serious mechanical issues amid turbulent weather conditions, including a torn sail and an entangled propeller, leaving it incapable of maneuvering in the high seas. With communication established via the consulate and growing concern for the safety of the crew, the ICG swiftly launched a rescue mission.
“Recognizing the urgency of the situation, MRCC Port Blair activated the International Safety Net (ISN) to alert all merchant vessels in the vicinity and launched established rescue coordination protocols,” the Indian Coast Guard said in an official statement.
The offshore patrol vessel ICGS Rajveer was deployed from Port Blair at 2:00 pm to render immediate assistance. Battling adverse weather and navigating challenging sea conditions, Rajveer reached the location of the stranded yacht by 5:30 pm.
Upon arrival, ICG personnel quickly established communication with the crew of Sea Angel and conducted an on-site assessment. Despite the vessel’s disabled condition and heavy winds, the two crew members — an American and a Turkish national — were found to be in stable health, though shaken by the ordeal.
“The ICG team demonstrated exceptional professionalism and seamanship under tough conditions,” said a senior ICG official involved in the operation. “They assessed the situation, reassured the crew, and prepared the vessel for towing.”
By 6:50 pm, Sea Angel was secured and taken under tow by ICGS Rajveer. The yacht was safely escorted back to Campbell Bay Harbour, where it arrived at approximately 8:00 am on July 11.
This high-stakes operation once again highlighted the Indian Coast Guard’s efficiency, responsiveness, and dedication to safeguarding lives at sea, both in Indian and international waters.
“The successful rescue showcases the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to maritime safety and its capability to handle complex rescue operations with speed and precision,” the official added.
The rescue of the Sea Angel underscores not only the increasing importance of international maritime coordination but also India’s growing role as a reliable and capable maritime force in the Indo-Pacific region. Given the remote location and hostile weather conditions, the rescue also marks a significant operational success for MRCC Port Blair and the crew of ICGS Rajveer.
The rescued crew members were provided medical attention and necessary support upon reaching Campbell Bay and are reported to be recovering well. Further coordination with their respective embassies is underway to assist them with onward arrangements.
The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the seas and the crucial role played by maritime rescue agencies like the Indian Coast Guard in ensuring safety across vast stretches of the ocean.
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