In a daring and swift operation under extreme sea conditions, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) executed a heroic maritime rescue mission on 10–11 July 2025, saving two foreign nationals aboard the US-flagged yacht Sea Angel, which had suffered complete propulsion failure near Indira Point, the southernmost tip of India.
The two-member crew—an American and a Turkish national—were left stranded in turbulent waters, 52 nautical miles southeast of Indira Point in the Andaman Sea, after their yacht suffered severe mechanical damage, including a blown sail and entangled propeller. Responding to an international distress alert, the Indian Coast Guard dispatched its patrol vessel ICGS Rajveer, which fought through rough seas to safely tow the vessel to Campbell Bay, bringing the ordeal to a safe conclusion on the morning of 11 July.
Distress Call and Immediate Response
The rescue mission was set into motion at 11:57 AM on 10 July 2025, when the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Port Blair received an emergency alert from the United States Consulate in Chennai. The alert stated that a yacht carrying two individuals had lost propulsion and was adrift southeast of Indira Point. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation and the worsening sea conditions, the MRCC promptly activated the International Safety Net (ISN) and alerted nearby ships.
Within hours, the Indian Coast Guard vessel Rajveer, stationed in the region for surveillance and patrol duties, was tasked with the emergency response. The crew aboard Rajveer was briefed on the coordinates, condition of the yacht, and the urgency of the mission.
Tense Hours at Sea
Setting sail into worsening weather and high sea states, Rajveer reached the yacht around 5:30 PM. Upon visual contact, it was confirmed that the vessel, Sea Angel, had lost its primary sailing capability. The yacht’s sail was torn off by high winds, and ropes had become tightly wound around the propeller, rendering the engine inoperable. The vessel was left completely adrift with no means of self-propulsion, exposing the crew to danger as darkness fell.
The crew of Rajveer assessed the health and safety of the two foreign nationals and determined that both were physically unharmed but visibly exhausted and anxious due to the prolonged drift in unstable waters. At approximately 6:50 PM, Sea Angel was successfully taken under tow. Despite resistance from the strong currents and unpredictable winds, Rajveer initiated a slow and controlled return toward the nearest safe harbour.
Safe Arrival at Campbell Bay
After an overnight operation that required navigating through rough sea conditions with an additional tow load, Rajveer arrived safely at Campbell Bay harbour by 8:00 AM on 11 July. Local authorities were kept on standby, and arrangements were made for the medical check-up and necessary assistance for the rescued crew. Reports confirm that the two individuals were in stable condition and did not require hospitalization. Both the U.S. and Turkish embassies were informed, and formal statements expressing gratitude were issued, recognizing the timely and professional intervention by Indian maritime authorities.
International Coordination and Maritime Vigilance
This operation highlights the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to international maritime safety and cooperation. The MRCC in Port Blair’s rapid coordination with the U.S. Consulate and subsequent activation of global safety protocols demonstrate the effectiveness of cross-border maritime communication and emergency response.
Rear Admiral A.K. Sinha (Retd), a maritime security expert, lauded the mission: “This was a textbook example of international maritime cooperation and India’s capability to project humanitarian assistance across high seas. The Coast Guard’s response time and operational execution were exemplary.”
ICGS Rajveer: The Guardian of the Southern Seas
The vessel at the heart of the operation, ICGS Rajveer, is a part of the Indian Coast Guard’s advanced offshore patrol fleet. Equipped with state-of-the-art navigation, communication, and towing systems, Rajveer has been instrumental in numerous coastal and offshore rescue operations. Its role in this mission once again underscores its strategic importance in securing the busy shipping lanes around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The Andaman Sea is a critical maritime zone, with dense traffic of commercial, scientific, and private vessels. The region, while scenic and resource-rich, often faces unpredictable weather, especially during the monsoon season, making timely response capability vital.
A Broader Message of Maritime Responsibility
This successful rescue not only reinforces India’s capacity for maritime response but also underlines the nation’s standing as a responsible actor in international waters. In a world where maritime emergencies can involve citizens of multiple countries, India’s willingness and ability to swiftly come to the aid of distressed foreign nationals enhances trust and cooperative ties with global maritime partners.
The Indian Coast Guard, which operates under the Ministry of Defence, continues to build its profile as a humanitarian force in addition to its primary roles of coastal defence, anti-smuggling operations, and environmental protection.
As images and videos of the Rajveer cutting through stormy waters emerged online, social media users across India and abroad expressed admiration for the courage and dedication shown by the rescuers.
Source: (x.com/IndiaCoastGuard)
