148 rescued as tourist boat sinks off Marmaris coast; investigation launched

A tourist boat carrying 148 people began taking on water and eventually sank off the coast of Marmaris, Turkey, in the picturesque Akvaryum Bay. The vessel was carrying 120 adults, 20 children, and 8 crew members when the incident occurred on Friday, May 29, 2026.

Fortunately, all individuals on board were safely evacuated to surrounding boats coordinated by rescue teams. New footage has emerged showing the swift transfer of passengers from the sinking vessel to other boats, captured by bystanders on nearby craft. The rapid evacuation ensured that no lives were lost, and no injuries were reported among the passengers or crew.

Following the incident, the Muğla Governorship released a statement confirming that an investigation has been launched. The governorate assured the public that the situation is being closely monitored. The evacuated passengers were safely brought to shore. Authorities, including the Marmaris District Governorate and the Coast Guard Command, are continuing their investigation and necessary procedures to determine the cause of the sinking.

The quick response from nearby vessels and the coordinated efforts of rescue teams were crucial in preventing any casualties. The incident highlights the importance of maritime safety protocols and the effectiveness of rapid response in emergency situations at sea.

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On Friday, May 29, 2026, an alert was received regarding a tour boat with a total of 148 people on board, including 120 adults, 20 children, and 8 crew members, beginning to take on water off Marmaris district's Akvaryum Bay. Following the alert, our teams dispatched to the area, with the coordination of the teams, our citizens on the boat were safely evacuated with the support of surrounding boats. It was determined that there were no casualties, injuries, or health problems. The evacuated citizens were safely brought to shore. An investigation and necessary procedures regarding the incident are being carried out by our Marmaris District Governorate and Coast Guard Command.