Stranded Ferry Passengers Rescued After Dramatic 20-Hour Ordeal off Tokyo Coast

Passengers on the high-speed jetfoil ferry Seven Islands Ai (IMO 8019576), who embarked on a journey from Tokyo on Wednesday, July 24th, were relieved to be back on land after a ~20-hour ordeal following a breakdown. The ferry, bound for the popular tourist destination Shikinejima island, experienced a loss of propulsion, prompting distress.

The 1980-built ferryboat, carrying 116 passengers including children, departed Tokyo at 07:45 a.m. local time, heading toward the volcanic islands ~100 miles south of Tokyo. These islands are renowned for their sandy beaches and hot springs. The Seven Islands Ai, capable of speeds up to 50 mph, encountered issues shortly after exiting Tokyo Bay. The crew of 5 reported an oil leak, which eventually led to a loss of steering control.

The Japanese Coast Guard responded, but high waves and strong winds complicated the rescue efforts. As the ferry drifted, many passengers suffered from seasickness and were unable to sleep due to the vessel’s constant motion. To alleviate the situation, the Coast Guard initially delivered food and water via helicopter. Later, a larger Coast Guard vessel secured the ferry and began towing it to Okada Port.

A tugboat took over the tow as they neared the port, and the ferry docked at ~05:40 a.m. Thursday morning, ~20 hours after leaving Tokyo. Tokai Kisen, the ferry operator, issued an apology and arranged hotel accommodations for the passengers. They also dispatched a replacement vessel for those wishing to continue their trip, with 30 passengers opting to proceed, while the remainder returned to Tokyo on a scheduled ferry.