JANUARY 2, 2026 — A Coast Guard Air Station Miami MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew and a Naval Air Station Key West MH-60S Marlin helicopter aircrew rescued four boaters after their 28-foot vessel capsized approximately 30 miles north of Key West, Wednesday.
The four boaters were in stable condition and safely transported to awaiting emergency medical service personnel at Key West International Airport.
An Air Station Miami HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircrew self-diverted from a routine patrol and located the boaters after hearing an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast issued by Sector Key West watchstanders.
After the capsized vessel started smoking, the boaters tied their life jackets to each other to remain together in the water among the 2 to 4-foot seas and 18 mph winds.
One of the boaters managed to grab a handheld radio to call for help on Channel 16 before the boat capsized.
The MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew arrived on scene and deployed a rescue swimmer who assisted in the hoist of three survivors. The MH-60S Marlin helicopter crew arrived on scene and hoisted the Coast Guard rescue swimmer and the fourth survivor.
“We’re proud of our crews and our Navy partners for helping save four lives after their vessel capsized,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Tabitha Pearigen, Coast Guard Sector Key West watchstander. “This is what we do. We want to save lives; we train to save lives.
“The boaters did a lot of things right—wearing life jackets and staying in communication—which made a real difference in keeping everyone safe,” Pearigan continued. “As we head into the new year, this is a good reminder to check the weather, wear your gear, and make sure you have a way to call for help before getting underway.”
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Coast Guard Southeast District – 305-202-3735
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