PCG rescues 4 Norwegians from yacht drifting off Catanduanes

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May 18, 2025 | 11:53am

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard rescued four Norwegian nationals from a yacht that was found drifting in waters off Cabugao Bay, Virac, Catanduanes, on Saturday, May 17.

In a statement on Sunday, May 18, the PCG confirmed that the crew aboard the "SY NORA SIMRAD" sailboat was safely rescued after Coast Guard Station Catanduanes received a distress call and launched a coordinated search and rescue operation. 

Initial attempts to establish radio communication with the vessel were unsuccessful, according to the PCG. This prompted Coast Guard District Bicol to coordinate with the Philippine Air Force's Tactical Operations Group 5 for aerial surveillance of the area. 

The PCG said the joint operation was necessary due to the sailboat's intermittent communication and limited visibility conditions.

After locating the vessel through direct communication and aerial surveillance, the Coast Guard dispatched the tugboat M/T Iriga from Legazpi Port to conduct a towing operation. 

The rescue team included personnel from multiple Coast Guard units: the Special Operations Unit Bicol, Maritime Safety Services Unit Bicol, Coast Guard Medical Station Bicol, Coast Guard Nursing Service Sub-unit Bicol and Civil Relations Group Bicol.

All four Norwegian crew members received medical evaluation upon arrival at the port of Catanduanes and were reported to be in good health, according to Coast Guard Medical Station Bicol.

No details were immediately available about what caused the sailboat to drift or the specific circumstances that led to the distress call.