Coast Guard, Good Samaritan Rescue Boater From Capsized Vessel on Banana River Near Port Canaveral
By Space Coast Daily // January 11, 2026
Good Samaritan’s Call Leads to Dramatic Water Rescue by U.S. Coast Guard
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — A boater was rescued Saturday after his 24-foot vessel capsized on the Banana River near Kelly Park, thanks to the swift response of the U.S. Coast Guard and the quick action of a nearby good Samaritan.
Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville watchstanders received a distress call at approximately noon after a passing boater reported the overturned vessel on VHF-FM Channel 16, the international maritime hailing and distress frequency.
The caller advised that one person was on top of the capsized boat and in need of assistance.
A boat crew from Coast Guard Station Port Canaveral, which was already underway in the area, heard the radio communications between the good Samaritan and Sector Jacksonville and immediately diverted to the scene. Upon arrival, the crew located the overturned 24-foot boat and found the stranded boater perched on the hull.
The Coast Guard crew safely brought the individual aboard their response boat and transported him to the Kelly Park Boat Ramp. Officials said the boater did not report any injuries and did not require medical treatment.
Lt. Michelle Goebel, a search and rescue mission coordinator with Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville, praised both the boat crew and the civilian who first made the call.
“The boat crew did an excellent job responding quickly and safely assisting the boater to shore, thanks to timely communication from a good Samaritan,” Goebel said. “Having reliable communications equipment aboard your vessel can be critical to receiving help during a maritime emergency.”
The incident highlights the importance of monitoring Channel 16 and ensuring radios are properly functioning on board, particularly in busy, sometimes unpredictable waterways like the Banana River, which runs along Florida’s Space Coast near Port Canaveral.
The Coast Guard said the owner of the capsized vessel will coordinate arrangements for salvaging the boat. No pollution or navigational hazards were reported in connection with the incident.
The U.S. Coast Guard encourages all mariners to ensure their vessels are equipped with working VHF radios, life jackets, and other required safety gear before heading out on the water.
