17/08/2026
Putting Human Life First at Sea ⚓️
On 13 August 2026, the Turkish-flagged DONAU EKSPRES II participated in a search and rescue operation to assist 48 Sudanese irregular migrants stranded at sea approximately 50 nautical miles south of Crete.
While sailing from Egypt to Denmark, DONAU EKSPRES II was directed to the area following an emergency alert received from JRCC Piraeus / Olympia Radio. The boat carrying the distressed persons, who had reportedly been at sea for approximately three days and were facing life-threatening conditions due to adverse weather, was sighted at 21:20 UTC as part of an operation conducted together with two other vessels.
The rescue operation commenced under NW 4 Bft winds and Sea State 3 conditions. By 21:50 UTC, a total of 48 persons — 45 adult males, 1 adult female and 2 minors — were successfully rescued and taken safely on board DONAU EKSPRES II.
The rescued persons were accommodated in a designated safe area on board, where drinking water, dry blankets and first aid assistance were provided.
Under the coordination of the Main Search and Rescue Coordination Centre (AAKKM), the 48 rescued persons were safely handed over to the Hellenic Coast Guard. Following the completion of the handover, DONAU EKSPRES II resumed her voyage.
This operation stands as a strong example of the importance of safety, coordination, swift decision-making and respect for human life in the maritime industry.
At Master Deniz Acenteliği, we consider not only operational excellence, but also safety and humanitarian responsibility to be among our core values in the maritime industry.
We commend the Master and the entire crew of DONAU EKSPRES II for their professionalism, composure and commitment to putting human life first.
