Turkey Tourist Boat Rescue: Third Underwater Detection Sonar Deployed in Search for Missing Passenger
ISTANBUL — The Turkish Coast Guard confirmed Thursday that a third underwater detection sonar has been deployed to locate a missing tourist believed to have fallen overboard from a sightseeing vessel off the coast of Antalya. The escalation in search efforts follows the maritime emergency that occurred on Tuesday afternoon.
The incident, which has drawn international attention, is centered on a commercial tour boat, identified as the M/S Akdeniz Star, carrying 43 passengers of diverse nationalities. Preliminary reports indicate the missing individual is a 34-year-old German national, identified as Lukas Richter. The boat was navigating near the popular resort of Kemer when the passenger reportedly fell overboard under unclear circumstances.
According to the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency (AFAD), the search operation now covers a 12-kilometer radius. Two naval ships, three helicopters, and multiple unmanned aerial vehicles are also involved. The deployed sonars are scanning depths exceeding 50 meters in the Mediterranean’s rocky underwater terrain.
Authorities have not confirmed any foul play but have detained the boat captain for questioning. The remaining passengers were safely escorted to shore for debriefing with consular officials from Germany, the United Kingdom, and France. The German Embassy in Ankara has urged citizens to avoid speculation.
This incident marks the third major tourist boat rescue operation in Turkish waters in 2025, prompting renewed calls for stricter maritime safety protocols. A full investigation is ongoing.