Coast Guard Rescues Three Boaters After Vessel Capsizes Off Florida Coast

The U.S. Coast Guard rescued three boaters near Captiva Island, Florida, after their vessel capsized over the weekend.

A family member reported the trio missing around 1 a.m. on Sunday after last hearing from them at 8 p.m. Saturday. The boaters were aboard a 20-foot center console.

A Coast Guard MH-60 helicopter from Air Station Clearwater located the missing boaters sitting atop their overturned vessel. Video footage captured the dramatic rescue, showing all three in good health.

A boat crew from Coast Guard Station Fort Myers Beach arrived to safely transfer the boaters aboard and transport them to emergency medical services for evaluation.

Chief Warrant Officer Dennise Werre credited the successful rescue to coordinated efforts between the Coast Guard and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, emphasizing the importance of float plans for boating safety.

Officials have not yet determined the cause of the capsizing.