Amid raging seas and mechanical failure, the Indian Coast Guard launched a precision rescue of the US-flagged yacht Sea Angel near Indira Point
Distress at Sea: How the Sea Angel Found Trouble Near Indira Point
Indian Coast Guard’s Heroic Rescue – On July 10, 2025, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Port Blair received a distress alert from the US Consulate in Chennai. The message was urgent: the Sea Angel, a 16×8-meter American sailing yacht, was stranded 52 nautical miles southeast of Indira Point, the southernmost tip of India.
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The yacht, carrying two crew members, one American and one Turkish national, had suffered a blown sail and a propeller entangled in ropes, rendering it immobile amid extremely rough sea conditions. With the vessel drifting dangerously, MRCC activated the International Safety Net (ISN) and alerted nearby merchant ships while initiating emergency protocols.
At 2:00 PM, the Indian Coast Guard deployed ICGS Rajveer, a patrol vessel equipped for high-seas rescue. By 5:30 PM, Rajveer reached the distressed yacht, braving raging winds and turbulent waters. The crew established communication, assessed the situation, and confirmed that both sailors were safe and in stable condition, despite the mechanical failure.
Precision and Courage: Inside the Indian Coast Guard’s Rescue Operation
The rescue was a textbook example of professionalism and precision. After securing the Sea Angel under tow at 6:50 PM, ICGS Rajveer navigated through volatile waters to escort the vessel to Campbell Bay, arriving safely at 8:00 AM on July 11.
The Indian Coast Guard’s swift response drew praise from international observers. The operation demonstrated:
- Rapid coordination between Indian and US authorities
- Technical expertise in handling disabled vessels
- Humanitarian commitment to saving lives at sea
The Coast Guard’s post on social media captured the spirit of the mission:
“Heroic rescue at sea! ICG ship Rajveer braved raging winds & rough seas to save US yacht Sea Angel with two crew, after complete propulsion failure near Indira Point”.
This wasn’t just a rescue it was a reaffirmation of India’s role as a trusted maritime partner in the Indo-Pacific.
Beyond Borders: What the Rescue Means for India’s Maritime Diplomacy
The Sea Angel rescue underscores India’s growing stature in global maritime safety. With increasing traffic through the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), India’s ability to respond to emergencies is critical not just for its own citizens, but for international vessels.
Key takeaways from the operation include:
- Strengthened India–US cooperation in maritime security
- Enhanced credibility of MRCC Port Blair as a regional rescue hub
- Public diplomacy win, showcasing India’s humanitarian values
The incident also highlights the importance of preparedness and coordination in maritime operations. As climate change intensifies sea conditions, such rescues may become more frequent and more complex.
For the Indian Coast Guard, the Sea Angel mission is a proud chapter in its legacy of saving lives, securing seas, and serving humanity.
Conclusion:
The Indian Coast Guard’s rescue of the Sea Angel was more than a maritime operation it was a moment of international solidarity, technical excellence, and human compassion. As the yacht sails again, it leaves behind a story of courage and cooperation that will echo across oceans.
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