Twenty-one people were rescued after a boat capsized off Dasoudi in Limassol on Monday morning, with some managing to make their own way to shore.

Speaking to the Cyprus Mail, Lieutenant Commander George Economou said the boat was relatively close to the coast when it overturned.

“Fortunately, the boat was relatively close to shore,” he said.

Lifeguards were immediately activated, while the wider search and rescue mechanism was mobilised under the national “Nearchos” plan, he added.

“Some of them managed to reach the shore on their own,” Economou said, adding that all 21 were in good health.

The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) activated the national search and rescue plan at 11.15am after being alerted that the vessel carrying the 21 people had capsized in the Dasoudi sea area.

Helicopters from the police aviation unit and the National Guard’s 460 Search and Rescue Squadron were mobilised for the operation.

Marine police vessels and a boat operated by Limassol district lifeguards also took part, alongside personnel from Limassol police and ambulances from state health services organisation Okypy.

All those on board were eventually brought safely to shore.

They were examined by ambulance crews and, after being found to be in good health, were allowed to leave.

JRCC, Larnaca, Nearchos, search and rescue, rescue operation
Helicopters from the police aviation unit and the National Guard’s 460 search and rescue squadron were mobilised for the operation