Joint Rescue Saves Kite Surfer in San Pablo Bay

On June 19 at approximately 5:30 p.m., the San Rafael Fire Department received a 911 call reporting that a kite surfer was in distress about 2 miles offshore and unable to make it back to land. The emergency was reported by both the kite surfer and a friend watching from shore.

The U.S. Coast Guard and San Rafael Fire Department marine rescue personnel responded immediately. The search for the wayward windsurfer was aided by SRFD Drone Big Mac. Working together under a unified command, crews quickly located the kite surfer in the waters east of Buckeye Point, where he was drifting toward the shipping channel.

Rescuers safely recovered the kite surfer and his equipment before bringing him aboard the fire rescue boat. He was transported back to Loch Lomond Harbor, where he was evaluated. Although exhausted from the ordeal, he fortunately did not require medical treatment.

The successful rescue highlights the importance of rapid communication, coordinated teamwork, and the strong partnership between the San Rafael Fire Department and the U.S. Coast Guard.