Man overboard on the Baltic Sea: international SAR operation near Rügen amid deteriorating weather conditions

A serious maritime incident occurred in the southern Baltic Sea, once again highlighting the operational challenges of passenger shipping during the winter season. On Sunday afternoon, several maritime rescue authorities were alerted following a man overboard report from a passenger ferry operating on a key route between Scandinavia and Poland. The incident took place in the vicinity of the German island of Rügen, an area characterised by dense ferry and commercial traffic.

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28 december 2025   |   22:12   |   Source: Gazeta Morska   |   Prepared by: Kamil Kusier   |   Print

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International search and rescue operation

Immediately after the alert, international search and rescue (SAR) procedures were initiated. The operation involved assets of the Polish Maritime Search and Rescue Service (MSPiR SAR), supported by rescue services from Denmark, Sweden and Germany. Multiple surface units and aerial assets were deployed to conduct an intensive search of the designated sea area.

In accordance with standard SAR procedures, vessels in the vicinity were also requested to assist. Among them was the ferry Polonia, operated by Unity Line, which joined the operation by conducting visual observation and area monitoring. Following the conclusion of its involvement, Polonia safely entered the port of Ystad, where the vessel is currently alongside.

Ferries and rescue units back in port

After the completion of the SAR operation, the ferry from which the incident was reported safely reached its destination port with a delay. All rescue units involved have since returned to their respective home ports and operational bases. No further navigational incidents were reported in the area following the conclusion of the operation.

As of the time of publication, no official confirmation has been issued regarding the recovery of the missing person.

Challenging winter conditions on the Baltic Sea

The search was conducted under demanding hydrometeorological conditions. Strong and gusty winds, increased wave heights and reduced visibility significantly hindered both surface and aerial search efforts. Additionally, low sea temperatures typical of the Baltic Sea in winter severely limit survival time for a person in the water, making man overboard incidents among the most complex and time-critical scenarios for SAR services.

Maritime safety experts emphasise that despite modern equipment, highly trained crews and effective international coordination, environmental conditions often remain the decisive factor influencing the outcome of such operations.

Forecasts indicate further deterioration

Meteorological forecasts suggest that weather conditions on the Baltic Sea are likely to worsen in the coming days. Stronger winds, higher sea states and the potential for gale-force conditions are expected, which may affect ferry schedules, commercial shipping operations and the operational readiness of rescue services throughout the region.

Passenger ferry safety under scrutiny

The incident near Rügen once again places passenger safety on ferries under scrutiny, particularly regarding preventive measures against man overboard situations and the effectiveness of onboard monitoring and response procedures. Winter operations on the Baltic Sea require heightened vigilance from ship operators, crews and maritime authorities alike.

Although often perceived as a relatively moderate sea, the Baltic in winter remains an unforgiving environment. The recent SAR operation serves as a reminder that while rapid response and international cooperation are essential, natural conditions ultimately set the limits of what can be achieved at sea.

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