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Press Release | Jan. 11, 2026

Coast Guard rescues boater from capsized vessel near Port Canaveral

PADET Jacksonville - Office: 904-714-7606 / After Hours: 786-393-4138

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral boat crew rescued one person, Saturday, after their 24-foot boat capsized on the Banana River near Kelly Park. 

The boat crew arrived on scene, rescued the boater from atop the vessel and transported him to Kelly Park Boat Ramp with no reported medical concerns. 

Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville command center watchstanders received a notification from a good Samaritan via VHF-FM channel 16 at noon of a capsized vessel with one person aboard. 

The boat crew diverted to assist after hearing the communications between the good Samaritan and watchstanders on channel 16. 

“The boat crew did an excellent job responding quickly and safely assisting the boater to shore, thanks to timely communication from a good Samaritan,” said Lt. Michelle Goebel, Sector Jacksonville search and rescue mission coordinator. “Having reliable communications equipment aboard your vessel can be critical to receiving help during a maritime emergency.” 

The owner of the vessel will coordinate its salvage. 

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-USCG-