Turkey Tourist Boat Rescue Underway Off Aegean Coast After Emergency Distress Signal
ISTANBUL (Reuters) — A rescue operation was launched off the coast of Turkey on Tuesday after a tourist boat issued an emergency distress signal in the Aegean Sea. Authorities confirmed that the vessel, carrying approximately 40 passengers and crew, encountered engine failure and began taking on water in rough conditions near the popular resort of Marmaris. The Turkish Coast Guard Command deployed multiple units, including rescue boats and a helicopter, to the scene. Reports indicate that all individuals aboard were safely evacuated to nearby vessels, with no casualties or injuries confirmed. The cause of the mechanical breakdown is under investigation, with officials noting that weather conditions were deemed hazardous for small craft operations. Local tourism operators have been advised to suspend excursions until further assessment. This incident underscores ongoing safety concerns for maritime tourism in the region.