Search efforts continue in Indonesian waters near the island of Padar for four Spanish nationals missing after a tourist boat sank. Among them is Fernando Martín, coach of Valencia’s women’s B team, and his three children. The operation is hampered by stormy weather and strong currents; so far, rescuers have only found debris from the vessel.
The family was aboard the wooden boat KM Putri Sakinah, which sank Friday evening. The vessel was traveling between the islands of Komodo and Padar, near Labuan Bajo (Labuan Bajo), in the province of Nusa Tenggara Timur (East Nusa Tenggara). According to local authorities, the tragedy was caused by sudden weather changes and a severe storm.
Currently, seven people have been rescued, including Fernando’s wife, Andre Ortuño, their underage daughter, and several Indonesian crew members, among them the captain and a local guide. The search for the remaining passengers continues despite challenging conditions.
Incident details
On the second day of the search, rescuers found parts of the vessel’s hull, a gas cylinder, and sections of the captain’s cabin about five nautical miles from the site of the sinking. Fathur Rahman, head of the Maumere search and rescue agency, said efforts are complicated by heavy rains, waves up to one and a half meters high, and strong underwater currents. Despite this, rescuers continue the search using all available resources.
Spanish football club Valencia has confirmed the identity of the missing coach and extended condolences to his family. Fernando Martín, 44, and his three children, aged 9 to 12, are still listed as missing. His wife and one of his daughters were rescued and are now safe.
Response and support
The Martín family was vacationing in Indonesia, which has become an increasingly popular destination for European tourists. Spanish diplomats are in contact with Indonesian authorities, while the consulate in Jakarta is providing assistance to survivors and their relatives. Consular staff have been sent to Labuan Bajo to support those affected.
According to Indonesia’s meteorological agency, the accident was caused by high waves triggered by sudden severe weather and a tornado that struck the south of the country on the day of the incident. Local officials said the boat’s engine lost power, leaving the vessel at the mercy of the waves before it began to sink.
Tourism and safety
Labuan Bajo is a major tourist hub in Indonesia and the gateway to Komodo National Park, famed for its unique Komodo dragons and scenic islands. In recent years, tourist numbers have risen sharply, leading to more boat tours and excursions.
However, as tourism has grown, so have concerns about water safety. The archipelago regularly sees accidents involving tourist boats, especially during the monsoon season when weather conditions can change rapidly. Authorities emphasize the need for strict monitoring of vessel conditions and crew training.
