Local Sea Rescue Teams Aid Fripp Island Boaters in Distress on Sunday

Beaufort, SC – An Unanticipated Rescue Operation Unfolds

In a remarkable show of combined effort and skill, local sea rescue teams of Beaufort, South Carolina, were deployed in the early hours of Sunday to assist two Fripp Island boaters trapped in distressing circumstances out in the marsh.

The Stranded Boaters

The duo, a young man and his father-in-law, had launched their Scout center-console boat from the marina on Saturday night for a fishing excursion. However, they lost their way back and were left stranded deep into the marsh at Fripp Island. Hoping for an incoming tide to provide sufficient water for a safe return to the marina, the men decided to wait it out. Unfortunately, even when the tide did come in, it was of no help. Faced with growing desperation and diminishing options, they called for help.

The Rescue Mission Begins

Responding promptly to the call at around 3:37 am, the Fripp Island Sea Rescue (FISR) and the Beaufort Water Search and Rescue began assessing the feasibility of launching R 1, their primary rescue vessel. Given the duo’s precarious location deep in the marsh, the teams decided instead to deploy R 2, stationed on the canal, better suited to reach the stranded boaters. However, the rescue endeavor was met with unexpected impediments. Not only was R 2 unable to get close enough for a successful rescue, but the report from the boaters also indicated the improbable feasibility of any vessel getting close enough for safe extraction.

Deploying the Airboat

Consequently, the decision was made to launch the BWSAR Airboat, a unique watercraft typically used to navigate challenging terrains. While the airboat was enroute from Port Royal, FISR deployed its WaveRunner, R 3, which however also failed to reach the immobilized vessel. Arriving at Fripp Island at approximately 6:45 am, the Airboat unexpectedly encountered mechanical difficulties, rendering the mission more complex. R 3 was once again deployed, this time to assist with fixing the sudden mechanical issues.

Swift Changes in Plan

Following the repairs, the Airboat was finally able to reach the boaters who were then safely ushered aboard. Struggling with more mechanical difficulties, the airboat was unfortunately unable to operate for the return journey. At this pivotal moment, the U.S. Coast Guard intervened, deploying a helicopter with a crew from Air Station Charleston. The boaters along with the BWSAR crew were safely airlifted to safety at the Ocean Creek Golf Course.

During this complex operation, FISR also strategically deployed R 2 on the canal to halt any incoming boating traffic potentially compromising the rescue scene. Post the operation; it was identified that one of the boaters had a minor foot injury and was mildly dehydrated. He was promptly assessed by EMS on the scene.

Successful Conclusion of the Rescue Operation

The operation which lasted nearly nine hours, despite its various challenges, resulted in a safe return for the distressed boaters and the rescue crew.

FISR routinely conducts training exercises with the U.S. Coast Guard and other rescue entities to prepare for operations just as these. The dedication and quick thinking of all rescue team members from FISR, BWSAR, and the U.S. Coast Guard played a pivotal role in the success of the operation. The teams are grateful for support from Fripp Island Resort & Security, which assisted in coordinating the rescue efforts on the ground.

Tales of dauntless courage and unflinching determination like these underline the critical role local sea rescue operations play in maintaining safety on the waters surrounding Fripp Island and its neighboring barrier islands.