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Where Sailors May Encounter Migrant Boats
In recent years, sailors have increasingly come across migrant boats at sea, especially in regions where migration routes overlap with cruising areas.
Key Areas
Central Mediterranean: Between Libya, Tunisia, Malta, and Italy’s Lampedusa or Sicily.
Eastern Mediterranean: Crossings from Turkey to Greek islands such as Lesbos, Chios, and Kos.
Western Mediterranean: From Morocco or Algeria to southern Spain and the Balearics.
English Channel: Between northern France and southern England.
Atlantic Route: From West Africa to the Canary Islands.
If You Encounter a Migrant Boat
Stay cautious; overcrowded craft are unstable.
Call the nearest Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre via VHF Channel 16.
Offer life jackets, water, or aid only if safe.
Avoid taking passengers on board unless instructed by authorities.
Sailors in these regions should be aware of the risks and ready to assist responsibly when people in distress are spotted at sea.
Thousands of migrants risk their lives each year crossing to the UK in small, unsafe boats despite dangerous seas and strict border controls as you will see below:
