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TOERRA VERDE, Fla. (WFLA) — Three people were rescued Friday after their boat began sinking six miles west of Bunces Pass, near Fort De Soto Park.
Around 4:20 p.m., the owner of a 29-foot boat contacted Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg, informing the watchstanders that the vessel was “rapidly taking on water,” as stated by officials.
A nearby tanker, Overseas Tampa, spotted the three boaters floating in the water and helped direct crews to their location.
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A Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew rescued three boaters, Friday, after their 29-foot boat capsized approximately six miles west of Bunces Pass. (Credit: U.S. Coast Guard) -
A Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew rescued three boaters, Friday, after their 29-foot boat capsized approximately six miles west of Bunces Pass. (Credit: U.S. Coast Guard) -
A Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew rescued three boaters, Friday, after their 29-foot boat capsized approximately six miles west of Bunces Pass. (Credit: U.S. Coast Guard) -
A Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew rescued three boaters, Friday, after their 29-foot boat capsized approximately six miles west of Bunces Pass. (Credit: U.S. Coast Guard)
“The quick decision by the boaters to put on their life jackets was critical and ultimately saved their lives,” explained Petty Officer 2nd Class Ryan St. John, a boatswain’s mate based at Station St. Petersburg.
The individuals were transported to the Tierre Verde Boat Ramp. Officials noted on Friday that the boat’s owner is now arranging for the recovery of the sunk boat. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
“We’d like to remind all mariners National Safe Boating Week is here, and a perfect time to get a boat safety check with your local Coast Guard Auxiliary flotilla,” St. John said.
