On August 25, 2013 at approximately 0900 hours United States Coast Guard (USCG) responded to a vessel taking on water just north of the Bellair Causeway in Pinellas County.  USCG recovered to individuals from the vessel with no injuries.  The vessel capsized and was unable to be salvaged at the current time.  The vessel was partially submerged.  It was determined that no drain plug was in place. I, Officer of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), received notice at approximately 1700 hours.

Operator stated the two men left Bellair boat ramp and were heading northwest when the motor of the vessel stalled around marker 1a.  The vessel continued to drift northwest until it grounded on a sandbar.  operator then realized there was no drain plug and water was rushing into the vessel.  PFD's were dawned by both men.  USCG arrived shortly after.

On August 30, operator made contact with me stating he hired commercial salvage to recover his vessel on this day.
BELLEAIR BLUFFS