Port Blair, July 11, 2025 — In a daring maritime rescue, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully rescued two foreign nationals from a U.S.-flagged sailing yacht that had become stranded amid rough sea conditions near Indira Point, the southernmost tip of India in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The yacht, named Sea Angel, issued a distress alert on July 10, 2025, after its sail was torn off and its propeller became entangled in ropes, leaving it adrift about 52 nautical miles southeast of Indira Point. The vessel was carrying two crew members, one American and one Turkish national.
According to an official statement from the Indian Coast Guard, the distress message was relayed through the U.S. Consulate in Chennai to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), Port Blair, at 11:57 a.m. on July 10.
Responding swiftly, the Coast Guard activated the International Safety Net (ISN) and deployed the ICG Ship Rajveer to the location. Despite challenging sea conditions, ICGS Rajveer reached the disabled yacht by 5:30 p.m. and safely rescued both crew members.
“The yacht was found with its sail completely blown off and its propeller fouled by ropes,” said an ICG spokesperson. “After confirming the safety of the crew, the vessel was taken under tow.”
Sea Angel and its crew were safely escorted to Campbell Bay Harbour, where they arrived in the early hours of July 11. Medical checks confirmed both individuals were in good health.
This incident underscores the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to maritime safety and rapid response in the region, regardless of the nationality of those in distress. It also highlights the vital coordination between international agencies and Indian maritime authorities.
The Indian Coast Guard has conducted several such high-seas rescue operations in recent years, reinforcing India’s role as a responsible maritime power in the Indo-Pacific region.
