A large-scale search and rescue operation unfolded on the Alicante coast on Sunday after a small motorboat sank at sea, leaving one person missing. A second man, aged 37, was found and rescued—he was discovered in open waters about 15 nautical miles off the coast near Santa Pola. His life is now out of danger, but the fate of the other man remains unknown.
The emergency services received the distress call late at night. Relatives raised the alarm when the men failed to return home or make contact. It is known that both men had left Abanilla (Murcia) by car early Saturday morning to test a boat off the Alicante coast. No one could have imagined that a routine outing would turn into a real drama.
Air and sea search underway
A coordinated search effort was launched immediately after the disappearance was reported. The operation involves not only maritime patrols, but also ground teams and aircraft. Special search planes and helicopters are combing the skies along the coast, while rescue teams and police patrol the shoreline. Every meter of the area between Santa Pola and other coastal towns is being meticulously searched.
The boat carrying the two men was found drifting at sea. Only one of them was on board—he was rescued and brought ashore. According to rescuers, the man was severely exhausted but conscious. He is currently under medical supervision and his life is not in danger. The whereabouts of the second passenger remain unknown.
Incident details
It is known that the men went to the coast to test a small motorboat. Preliminary reports suggest the vessel may have capsized or sustained damage, causing both to end up in the water. Why one remained on board while the other vanished is still a mystery. Investigators do not rule out that weather conditions or a technical malfunction could have played a role.
Relatives of the missing man remain hopeful and are actively cooperating with search teams. Appeals for help and requests for local residents to watch for any suspicious objects in the water or on the shore are being widely shared on social media. So far, however, the search has yielded no results.
Search operation continues
Authorities emphasize that the search will continue until there is clarity about the missing man’s fate. All available resources have been deployed, including boats, jet skis, drones, and aircraft. Every hour counts, as the chances of survival drop with each passing minute.
The situation on the Alicante coast has local residents and rescue teams on edge. Many recall similar incidents where a seaside stroll ended in tragedy. This time, there is still hope for a positive outcome, although time is working against the search teams.
Editorial opinion
Incidents like this clearly demonstrate how dangerous the sea can be, even for experienced enthusiasts of water activities. Underestimating weather conditions, technical failures, or simple carelessness can lead to the gravest consequences. It is vital to remember: water safety is no empty phrase—it’s a matter of life and death.
