A tourist boat sank in rough seas near Padar Island in Indonesia’s Komodo National Park, killing a Spanish football coach and his three children, officials said. The boat went down on the night of December 26 as waves grew over 10 feet high and the weather worsened.
Rescue teams pulled seven people to safety, including the coach’s wife, Andrea, and their youngest daughter, 7‑year‑old Mar.
Who Died in the Accident
The man who died was Fernando Martín, head coach of Valencia CF Women’s B team. He was 44 years old. The three children who lost their lives were his sons and daughter, aged 12, 10, and 9.
Valencia CF said in a statement, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Fernando Martín, coach of Valencia CF Femenino B, and three of his children in a tragic boating accident in Indonesia…” and offered support to the family.
What Happened to the Boat
The wooden tourist boat was carrying 11 people when it sank in the Padar Strait near Labuan Bajo. Strong currents and rough weather hit the boat, causing it to go down.
Indonesian officials said high waves over two meters (about seven feet) made the waters dangerous and complicated rescue efforts.
Rescue Efforts and Survivors
Rescuers from the National Search and Rescue Agency, the Indonesian navy, local police, and other teams worked through tough conditions.
Seven people were taken safely to Labuan Bajo port, where they were checked by medical staff. Those rescued included:
- Fernando’s wife, Andrea
- Their daughter, Mar
- Four crew members
- One local tour guide
Search for the Victims
Search teams continued to comb the sea for the missing four passengers. They used rescue boats, inflatable craft, and help from local fishermen. Officials said poor weather sometimes forced brief pauses in the search.
Debris from the boat was spotted in the water near the sinking site.
Authorities temporarily closed Padar Island — a major tourist spot — to visitors because of the bad weather and dangerous sea conditions.
The area is known for its landscape and beaches, drawing many visitors each year. But unpredictable seas can make travel risky.
Why These Accidents Happen
Maritime accidents are common in Indonesia, an archipelago with 17,000 islands, where boats are a major way to travel between tourist spots. Many accidents stem from bad weather or weak safety standards on local boats.
After the tragedy, Valencia CF and Real Madrid both expressed shock and grief. Real Madrid said they were deeply saddened and shared condolences with Martín’s family.
Fans around the world have also shared their sympathies on social media.
