Boater missing for two days rescued in partially submerged vessel off Florida coast

A 25-year-old boater who had been missing s at sea was rescued by the United States Coast Guard on Friday near the coast of Florida, after struggling to stay alive for two days in the open waters. 

Charles Gregory departed on a fishing trip from St. Augustine on Thursday night on a 12-foot jon boat, a lightweight, flat-bottomed vessel. His family reported his absence to the Coast Guard after he did not return on Friday. 

While on his fishing trip, a wave hit his boat, knocking him into the water. Gregory managed to get back on board, but his boat was taken out to sea. 

During his unexpected journey, Gregory “struggled to stay alive.” His boat began to sink as sharks roamed around the area and he suffered from jellyfish stings. 

“He was scared to death,” his father, Raymond Gregory, said. “He said he’s had more conversations with God in that 30 hours than he’s had his whole life.”

In his desperate attempt to stay alive, Gregory removed the motor of the vessel to prevent it from sinking further and even removed his swimming trunks to use as a flag to wave at nearby boats or planes. 

On Saturday morning, a Coast Guard HC-130 airplane spotted Gregory sitting in the partially submerged boat about 12 miles offshore from St. Augustine. A Coast Guard Cutter Coho boat was then sent to recover the 25-year-old, who was then transported to a local hospital. 

“We are pleased about the outcome in this case and I would like to thank all of our local and state partners who were heavily involved in searching for Charles and bringing him home to his family," said Cmdr. Nick Barrow, Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville search and rescue mission coordinator. 

“While this case resulted in rescuing Charles from a life-threatening situation, it highlights the importance of having safety gear onboard and being prepared for the worst. If you plan to head out on the water, remember to have a life jacket, VHF marine grade radio, signaling devices, and an emergency personal locator beacon to contact first responders in case you are in need of assistance,” he addeed.