JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Coast Guard Station Mayport is experiencing a notable increase in search and rescue operations this year. While not every call involves life-threatening situations, some do, and the crew remains vigilant as summer boating activity ramps up.
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The jetty near Mayport is a known hotspot for rescues.
“The jetty is a line of rocks that effectively mark where boats come and go, but depending on tide they can be an issue, and is a spot where multiple rescues have had to be made,” MK2 Thomas Aveni explained.
Aveni emphasized that boaters of all experience levels and boat values can run into trouble.
“Complacency is the number one reason people do something silly and run into the jetties like this,” he said.
The Coast Guard crew prides itself on rapid response, often getting off the dock within minutes of a call to maximize chances of a successful rescue.
Search and rescue cases are rising sharply compared to previous years:
- 2023:
- Total search and rescue cases: 128
- Cases by mid-year (approx.): 70
- 2024:
- Total search and rescue cases: 129
- Cases by mid-year (approx.): 70
- 2025:
- Total search and rescue cases: (projected)
- Cases by mid-year (approx.): ~100
“Already in this year alone we’ve almost had 100 cases,” Aveni noted. “So, the fact that we’re still only about halfway through the year and we’re at almost 100, it’s pretty telling.”
Summer, especially around July 4, is traditionally the busiest time for rescues. Last year, Coast Guard Mayport responded to eight search and rescue calls in just three days from July 4 to July 7.
Not all calls involve dramatic rescues. Sometimes the Coast Guard assists with preventing worsening situations.
“It could be something as simple as, hey, we’re taking on water,” Aveni said. “Our pumps can’t keep up. We have commercial salvage on the way, but they’re not going to be here in time. We’re going to watch and help you guys out before this gets worse.”
Boaters are urged to be cautious and prepared. Aveni praised those who use safety devices properly.
“One person thought he was having a heart attack and did the right thing by activating his personal electronic position indicating radio beacon,” Aveni said.
With more boaters expected on the water for the holiday and summer peak, Aveni offered this advice.
“Be aware of people around you, definitely don’t drink and drive, and be careful,” he said. “We do see a lot of vessel collisions on the Fourth of July with people leaving firework displays trying to get home before the rest of the traffic.”
Photos from recent operations near Atlantic Bridge show the potential dangers on the water, even when no one is hurt.
