French maritime rescue authorities have raised concerns over an increasing trend of people smugglers transporting large numbers of migrants across the English Channel on overcrowded boats. In a recent incident, a record 230 asylum seekers were intercepted arriving in Britain on a single 15-meter vessel near Berck-sur-Mer, Normandy. This surpasses the previous high of 165 migrants on one boat recorded earlier this summer.
Jean-Marc Lamblin, director of the national sea rescue service (SNSM) branch in Berck-sur-Mer, said that over the past three months there has been a noticeable rise in the size of boats used for crossings. “We didn’t think there could be any more than 150 people onboard, but there really is no limit now,” he stated.
Many of these so-called “mega-dinghies” are manufactured in China and transported through commercial routes across Turkey, Bulgaria, and Germany before ultimately reaching French coastal areas. Smuggling networks reportedly stockpile and distribute the vessels prior to launch. British Home Office officials have identified Chinese websites as a major source for boats and parts and have been cooperating with Chinese authorities to curb exports. However, sources in the National Crime Agency caution that China is likely one of several suppliers used by criminal gangs.
Heightened law enforcement efforts from both British and French authorities have led to earlier interception and disruption of planned crossings, including returning migrants to France after mechanical failures such as engine fires. French police have adopted new tactics to break up large migrant gatherings near the coast, making operations more difficult for smugglers. As a result, gangs are increasingly resorting to overloading fewer, larger boats instead of numerous smaller vessels.
A government source noted that while larger boats are carrying more people per crossing, the overall number of Channel migrant crossings is down significantly. Official figures indicate a 43 percent reduction in arrivals compared with the previous year, with July recordings marking the lowest since 2020 despite typically favorable weather conditions for crossings in summer.
Nevertheless, the use of bigger boats has increased risks for both migrants and rescuers. The SNSM reported that approximately 30 people fell into the sea during the scramble to board the recent 230-passenger dinghy, with some becoming trapped by incoming tides and requiring rescue. The initial sighting of the vessel included around 50 people onboard, but numbers grew as migrants rushed aboard.
Authorities continue to emphasize the dangers posed by these overcrowded Channel crossings while maintaining joint operations aimed at disrupting smuggling networks and reducing migrant flows.