Coast Guard Recovers Stranded Boaters Near Nags Head

Coast Guard Station Oregon Inlet safely recovered three people on Monday after their jet boat ran aground on a small island between Wanchese and Bodie Island.

The boaters ran aground on Sunday at approximately 4 p.m., and contacted Station Oregon Inlet on Monday at 2:20 a.m. via cell phone after making unsuccessful efforts to un-ground themselves. The boaters reported that prior to them grounding they brought fuel to a friend who had run out.

Station Oregon Inlet launched a crew on a shallow water craft, who were able to safely get the stranded boaters off the island and transport them to Pirate’s Cove Marina in Manteo, North Carolina.

The 17-foot jet boat was left at the grounding site and poses no hazard to navigation. The owner is scheduled to return to it today.

“Being prepared when getting on the water is essential for a boater’s safety,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Robert Widmaier, coxswain during the case. “Even if you plan on taking a short trip, prepare for the worst-case scenario. Boaters should always have appropriate safety gear, charged cell phones, a working radio, access to GPS and dress for harsh weather conditions.”

There were no reported injuries.