BULELENG, Bali – A 17-year-old yacht crew member who disappeared after reportedly attempting to return to his vessel by speedboat following a night of drinking has been found dead off Bali’s northern coast, bringing a two-day search operation to a tragic end.
The victim, identified by his initials RTK, was recovered on Thursday morning in the waters off Banyu Wedang Beach in Gerokgak, Buleleng, an area known as a gateway to diving sites and marine tourism near West Bali National Park.
Search and Rescue (SAR) officials said the body was discovered floating near mangroves at approximately 10:23 a.m. local time, just a few meters from where the victim’s abandoned speedboat had earlier washed ashore.
“The body was located during the second day of search operations after local fishermen alerted our team to something floating near the mangrove area,” said Kadek Donny Indrawan, coordinator of the Buleleng Search and Rescue Post.
Rescuers immediately navigated to the location and recovered the victim, who was later formally identified by family members.
A Night Journey That Never Ended
According to authorities, the incident began late Monday evening when the teenager left the yacht Turmalin 384310 and traveled to shore by speedboat.
Investigators believe he later attempted to return to the anchored yacht during the night but may have fallen into the sea. Officials said witnesses reported the young crew member had consumed alcohol before departing.
When he failed to return the following morning, concern quickly grew among fellow crew members.
The only clue was the speedboat, which was later found stranded along the shoreline without anyone aboard.
Intensive Search Ends in Tragedy
A joint SAR operation was launched immediately, involving rescue boats, shoreline searches, and dive teams examining waters up to 10 meters deep.
Despite extensive efforts throughout the first day, no trace of the missing crew member was found.
The breakthrough came Thursday morning after a local fisherman spotted what appeared to be a body floating near mangrove vegetation.
Following recovery, the victim’s remains were transported by ambulance to Buleleng Regional Hospital for further examination.
A Reminder About Maritime Safety
While Bali is internationally known for its luxury yachts, diving charters, and island-hopping cruises, maritime authorities say the incident serves as a reminder that even short trips between shore and anchored vessels can become dangerous, particularly at night or after alcohol consumption.
Many yachts operating around Bali rely on small tenders or speedboats to transport passengers and crew between shore and offshore anchorages. Rescue officials advise both visitors and maritime workers to avoid operating small craft while under the influence of alcohol and to wear appropriate safety equipment whenever traveling after dark.
Police and maritime authorities continue to document the circumstances surrounding the incident, with no indication of foul play reported at this stage.
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