Foto: Johannes Räbel

Aurora 1 & 2

When every second counts

Since 2022, Aurora 1 has been operating in the Central Mediterranean. The 14-metre rescue vessel was specially refitted for search and rescue operations at sea and can reach speeds of up to 25 knots, making it one of the fastest civilian rescue vessels in the Central Mediterranean. Unlike larger rescue ships, Aurora 1 operates directly from Lampedusa, allowing it to respond to distress calls with exceptional speed. Its role is similar to that of an ambulance at sea: it stabilizes emergencies, secures boats in distress, and provides immediate assistance until additional rescue assets arrive.

Saving Lives in the Mediterranean

Over the past years, Aurora 1 has demonstrated just how vital this operational concept is. Since her first operation, she has contributed to the rescue of thousands of people. Time and again, she has reached boats in distress at the last possible moment, saving lives before people could be forcibly returned to Libya by the so-called Libyan Coast Guard.

Aurora 1 fills a crucial gap within the civilian rescue fleet. By remaining close to the operational area, she can deploy whenever every minute matters.

Menschen in Westen auf der Aurora
Foto: Rebecca Berker

Aurora 2: Our Response to Political Obstruction

However, Aurora 1 cannot be at sea at all times. Maintenance periods, detentions, and political obstruction have repeatedly prevented her from operating over the past years. That is why, since 2026, a second vessel of the same type has joined the fleet: Aurora 2.

When civilian rescue ships are systematically hindered, we must find ways to remain operational nonetheless. An additional vessel like Aurora 2 makes our fleet more resilient against political harassment, ensuring that lifesaving operations can continue despite ongoing attempts to obstruct them.

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