The search for a 35-year-old foreign tourist who went missing off the coast of Cyprus has intensified after his rented boat was found adrift, with no one on board.

The inflatable vessel was spotted near Argaka, around 200 metres from shore, at approximately 4.30pm on Tuesday, sparking a large-scale rescue mission.

According to Michalis Nikolaou, assistant police director of operations in Paphos, the man had set off alone from Latsi Harbour at 10.30am for a short sightseeing trip.

When the boat was discovered hours later with no sign of the tourist, authorities immediately launched a multi-agency search involving two helicopters, marine police patrols and ground teams from Paphos police.

Despite extensive efforts, the man has not yet been located. The joint rescue coordination centre (JRCC) is leading the operation, with searches continuing through the night.

Police have not released the tourist’s nationality but are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen the boat earlier in the day.