Search for missing sailboat comes to an end

On 24–25 January 2026, Salvamento Marítimo announced the end of the active search phase for the 9-metre sailing yacht “Admirante”, which departed from the port of Gandía (Valencia) on 15 January 2026, bound for Guardamar del Segura (Alicante province), but never arrived.

According to official information, only one person was on board the vessel, acting as skipper and reportedly also the owner.

Timeline of events

On 15 January, at approximately 09:00, the sailboat Admirante left the port of Gandía heading towards Guardamar del Segura.On 16 January, the sailor’s wife alerted emergency services after losing contact with him. Later that day, the man managed to contact the 112 emergency service, stating that the boat was adrift due to engine failure, that he had a liferaft, distress flares and limited battery power on his mobile phone, but was unable to provide his exact position.

Over the following days, an extensive air and sea search was carried out between Gandía and Guardamar del Segura, including coastal areas near Benidorm and Sierra Helada, involving Salvamento Marítimo, Guardia Civil, and Red Cross rescue boats.

Outcome of the operation

On 24–25 January, Salvamento Marítimo officially confirmed the suspension of the active search with no results.Authorities continue to issue navigational warnings and collect reports from vessels sailing through the area. The search may be resumed if new reliable information becomes available.ecepción de cualquier información que pueda aportar la localización del velero o de su tripulante. En caso de nuevas pistas fiables, la operación podría reactivarse.