Coast Guard Rescues Four After Vessel Capsizes North of Key West

Four people were pulled from the water after their recreational vessel capsized roughly 30 miles north of Key West on Dec. 31, 2025, Coast Guard officials said. Air Station Miami crews and Coast Guard watchstanders in Sector Key West coordinated the response after the group issued an emergency broadcast, and all four were recovered alive and taken to safety.

Coast Guard officials said an HC-144 Ocean Sentry aircrew self-diverted from a routine patrol after Sector Key West watchstanders issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast. One of the boaters was able to grab a handheld radio and call for help before the vessel capsized. After the boat overturned it began to smoke, and the people in the water tied their life jackets to each other to remain together amid 2- to 4-foot seas and 18 mph winds.

A helicopter crew arrived on scene and deployed a rescue swimmer who hoisted three survivors into the aircraft. A second helicopter crew then arrived and lifted the last survivor and a Coast Guard rescue swimmer from the water. Coast Guard officials credited both the quick response of aircrews and coordinated watchstander actions with preventing a more serious outcome.

"We're proud of our crews and our Navy partners for helping save four lives after their vessel capsized," Petty Officer 3rd Class Tabitha Pearigen, Coast Guard Sector Key West watchstander, said in a statement. "This is what we do. We want to save lives; we train to save lives."

Pearigen also praised the boaters for steps that improved their chances of survival. "The boaters did a lot of things right, wearing life jackets and staying in communication, which made a real difference in keeping everyone safe," she said. "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."

The incident serves as a practical reminder for Monroe County residents who recreate offshore that winter conditions can be unpredictable even close to shore. Small craft can be quickly overwhelmed in choppy seas and sustained winds, and survival often depends on immediate access to flotation and a reliable means to summon help. Local boaters planning New Year outings and weekend trips are urged to verify forecasts, confirm communications equipment is charged and functional, and carry personal flotation devices for every person on board.