Boaters in 'unseaworthy vessel' rescued from choppy bay

Four boaters were rescued from an “unseaworthy vessel” in windy and choppy conditions off Monmouth County late last week, officials say.

The men were aboard a 22-foot boat in the Raritan Bay off Keansburg when the vessel became stranded around noon on Sunday, according to a U.S. Coast Guard release.

After watchstanders at Coast Guard Section New York received a report from Perth Amboy 911 dispatch about the disabled pleasure craft, a heavy weather boatcrew launched from Station Sandy Hook, the release said.

The boatcrew arrived on scene, rescued the four boaters, and transported them uninjured to the Atlantic Highlands Marina. Seas were running at three to five feet and winds were blowing at 30 knots.

Due to the conditions, the boatcrew was not able to tow the vessel and left it at anchor. The owner has arranged to have a commercial salvage company to tow the vessel, the release said.

“This type of boat was designed to be operated on lakes, not the ocean,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Jennifer Smith, a crewmember at Station Sandy Hook. “Before leaving the dock, you should always check the weather, file a float plan, check your lifesaving equipment and ensure your vessel is safe to be out on the water.”