A routine coastal excursion off the shores of Vlorë, Albania, took a perilous turn when a boat carrying 12 passengers, including 11 tourists from various countries, experienced a mechanical defect. The incident, though potentially life-threatening, ended with all passengers safe and sound, thanks to the swift response of local authorities.
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| Police escorting the boat |
According to reports from the Police, the vessel became disabled due to a lack of proper certification as a Maritime Tourist Operator, prompting authorities to levy a fine of 100,000 Albanian lekë against the owner.
Fortunately, all passengers emerged unscathed and expressed their gratitude for the timely intervention of the Police.
The Police announcement read:
"Vlorë - Border Police and Coastal Patrol rescue 12 passengers, 11 of whom are tourists from various countries, whose lives were at risk aboard a malfunctioning vessel at sea.
The owner of the vessel was penalized with an administrative fine of 100,000 lekë, and the vessel itself was detained for operation without the required Maritime Tourist Operator Certificate.
Citizen E. L., a 30-year-old resident of Vlorë, sought Police assistance when his boat experienced engine failure off the Vlorë coast.
Border Police services from SPK Triport, upon receiving the distress call, immediately dispatched a patrol boat. In collaboration with the Coastal Patrol, they successfully rescued the 12 individuals aboard the disabled vessel, 11 of whom were tourists from countries such as Poland, France, Israel, and Belgium.
Following the safe return of the tourists to port, Border Police conducted verifications and determined that the vessel, operated by SPK Triport, was being used for personal purposes and lacked the necessary Maritime Tourist Operator Certificate.
The vessel was detained, and Citizen E. L. was fined 100,000 lekë, in accordance with Law No. 43/2020 'On Maritime Tourist Operators.'
Tourists, in good health, expressed their appreciation for the prompt response and assistance provided by the Police and Coastal Patrol."
The incident underscores the importance of adherence to maritime regulations and the swift response of authorities in ensuring the safety of both locals and tourists alike. It also highlights the need for stringent enforcement of certification requirements for operators in the maritime tourism sector to prevent similar incidents in the future.