Incident underscores maritime safety efforts along Florida’s Gulf and Space Coast waters
A U.S. Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew responded swiftly to a maritime emergency after a vessel capsized near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – A U.S. Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew responded swiftly to a maritime emergency on October 2 after a vessel capsized near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, rescuing a boater who was found clinging to the overturned craft.

Officials said the man was pulled from the water without injury and transported safely to the Gandy boat ramp. The individual is now coordinating recovery of the capsized vessel, which authorities say posed no ongoing hazard to navigation.

According to the Coast Guard, the quick response prevented what could have become a more dangerous situation in the busy shipping channel near Tampa Bay.

“This case is a strong reminder of how important it is to wear a life jacket and ensure your vessel is equipped with proper safety gear,” said a Coast Guard spokesperson from Sector St. Petersburg. “Our crews train daily to respond to incidents like this and protect the boating public.”

A U.S. Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew responded swiftly to a maritime emergency after a vessel capsized near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Ensuring Safe Waterways

The successful rescue also highlights the critical role the U.S. Coast Guard plays across Florida’s coastline — from the Gulf to the Atlantic. Along Brevard County’s Space Coast, Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral and the Sector Jacksonville command regularly conduct similar missions, ensuring safe waterways for both recreational boaters and commercial vessels operating near Port Canaveral and the Indian River Lagoon.

Local Coast Guard units in Brevard County respond to dozens of distress calls each year, from overturned kayaks and stranded boaters to medical emergencies at sea. In 2024, Station Port Canaveral reported assisting more than 100 mariners in distress.

“The same professionalism seen in St. Petersburg is mirrored right here on the Space Coast,” said a Coast Guard public affairs officer. “Whether it’s Tampa Bay or the Banana River, our goal is always the same — to protect lives and promote maritime safety.”

Safety Reminder for Florida Boaters

The Coast Guard continues to urge boaters across the state to file float plans, check weather forecasts, and ensure all safety equipment — including flares, radios, and life jackets — is in working order before heading out.

As Florida heads into its fall boating season, officials emphasize that calm-looking waters can quickly turn treacherous. The recent rescue near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge serves as another example of how preparedness and prompt Coast Guard action can make the difference between life and death.