Turkey Coast Guard Saves Over 8,000 Lives in 2025 Operations

Türkiye’s Coast Guard Rescues Over 8,000 People in 2025

The Turkish Coast Guard Command rescued 8,453 people during maritime incidents in 2025 and recovered the bodies of 165 individuals, according to official statistics released by the authority.

Operating across Türkiye’s surrounding seas, coast guard units responded to a wide range of emergencies, including storms, mechanical failures, drownings, accidents and onboard fires. Officials said the figures reflect both the scale of maritime activity and the ongoing risks faced at sea.

Year-on-Year Comparison

Rescue figures have fluctuated in recent years, with 2025 representing a significant decrease in the number of rescues compared to the peak years of 2022-2024.

• 2025: 8,453 people rescued, 165 fatalities.
• 2024: 24,448 people and 158 vessels rescued; 190 fatalities.
• 2023: 24,826 people and 62 boats rescued; 147 fatalities.
• 2022 (Peak): 31,587 people and 166 vessels rescued; 157 fatalities.
• 2021: 19,812 people and 174 boats rescued; 144 fatalities.
• 2020: 12,655 people and 247 boats rescued; 158 fatalities.

Seasonal Trends in 2025

Monthly data for 2025 show a clear rise in incidents during the summer months, when maritime traffic and recreational activities increase.

• January: 1,285 people and 5 boats rescued; 11 bodies recovered.
• June: 763 people and 26 boats rescued; 17 bodies recovered.
• July: 1,131 people and 25 boats rescued; 19 fatalities.
• August: 889 people and 27 boats rescued; 23 bodies recovered.
• September: 1,115 people and 11 boats rescued; 19 bodies recovered.
• October: 844 people and 14 boats rescued; 25 fatalities.
• November: 638 people and 8 boats rescued; 7 bodies recovered.
• December: 416 people and 6 boats rescued; 3 bodies recovered.

Medical Evacuations

In addition to rescue missions, the Turkish Coast Guard carried out 390 medical evacuations in 2025, transporting patients from remote or hard-to-access locations to medical facilities.

Maritime Safety Remains a Priority

While no regional breakdown was provided, officials emphasized that maritime safety operations remain a priority as sea traffic and seasonal activity continue to pose risks across Türkiye’s waters.

"The figures reflect both the scale of maritime activity and the ongoing risks faced at sea," officials stated, highlighting the critical role of the Coast Guard Command.

Safety Note: The annual statistics underscore the importance of maritime preparedness and adherence to safety protocols for all vessel operators and passengers.