Four of the 26 people from a tour boat missing in the frigid waters of northern Japan have been found., but their conditions are unknown

The four were spotted near the tip of Shiretoko Peninsula, although the Japanese coast guard was unable to confirm whether they were rescued alive.

NHK public television said they were unconscious.

The boat carrying 24 passengers and two crew members went missing after sending a distress call, saying it had taken in water and was beginning to sink.

The rescue came after nearly 19 hours of intense searching involving six patrol boats, several aircraft and divers.