Tour boat sinks off the coast of Marmaris, passengers evacuated in seconds

During a daily excursion near Aquarium Bay in the Marmaris district of Muğla, a tour boat carrying adults, children, and crew began taking on water for reasons yet to be determined. A rapid rescue plan was initiated for the 148 people on board, consisting of 120 adults, 20 children, and 8 crew members.

In moments recorded by the mobile phone cameras of citizens on another boat, it was seen that the passengers were quickly transferred to nearby vessels. Thanks to the evacuation effort organized in a short time, everyone was rescued safely before the boat completely submerged.

In a statement following the incident, the Muğla Governor's Office said: "On Friday, May 29, 2026, a report was received that a tour boat carrying a total of 148 people, including 120 adults, 20 children, and 8 crew members, had begun taking on water off the coast of Aquarium Bay in the Marmaris district. Under the coordination of teams dispatched to the region following the report, our citizens on the boat were safely evacuated with the support of surrounding vessels. Checks confirmed that there were no casualties, injuries, or health issues. Our evacuated citizens were safely transported to the shore. Investigations and necessary procedures regarding the incident are being carried out by our Marmaris District Governorship and Coast Guard Command."

While the passengers, whose safety was ensured after the incident, were transported to the shore, the Marmaris District Governorship and Coast Guard Command teams launched a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the incident. It was learned that efforts to determine the reason for the boat's sinking are ongoing.

With the start of the summer season, inspections in the region are expected to be increased. Authorities will continue to inform the public regarding current developments.

News Source: 12punto