On Saturday evening, a local sailor faced a life‑threatening situation on Lake Michigan when his 28‑foot sailboat lost power, capsized and eventually ran aground on a sandbar near Green Island, just northwest of the Sturgeon Bay Canal. High winds and a dead battery left the vessel unable to anchor, prompting the sailor to issue a Mayday call on VHF‑FM Channel 16 at 6:08 p.m.
Coast Guard response
Coast Guard Sector Lake Michigan watchstanders immediately relayed the distress call and dispatched a 45‑foot Response Boat‑Medium from Coast Guard Station Sturgeon Bay. An urgent marine information broadcast warned other mariners of the sailor’s inability to maintain communications and the hazardous conditions.
At the same time, an MH‑60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City was scrambled to the scene. Both the boat crew and the helicopter arrived near 8 p.m., finding the sailboat upright but stuck on a sandbar in shallow water that prevented the boat crew from reaching it directly.
Rescue operation
The helicopter crew lowered a trained rescue swimmer to assist the sailor. After stabilizing him, the swimmer helped hoist the man aboard the MH‑60, where he received immediate medical attention for symptoms of hypothermia. He was then flown to Menominee Regional Airport in Michigan for further treatment by emergency medical services.
Coast Guard officials reported that the sailor was able to right his sailboat before it grounded, but the combination of cold water, wind and exposure led to the hypothermia diagnosis. No signs of pollution were observed from the grounded vessel, and the Coast Guard is monitoring the area for any environmental impact.
Community impact and safety reminder
This successful rescue underscores the vital role the Coast Guard plays in protecting recreational boaters on the Great Lakes. Their rapid response and coordinated effort between boat and air units saved a life and prevented a potential tragedy on a waterway that many local families enjoy for fishing, sailing and weekend outings.
Boaters in the region are reminded to check battery health, carry proper safety equipment, and stay aware of weather conditions before heading out on the water. The Coast Guard encourages anyone planning a trip on Lake Michigan to file a float plan and keep a reliable means of communication, especially when sailing in areas prone to sudden wind shifts.
Local authorities will continue to work with the Coast Guard to ensure safe navigation channels around Green Island and the Sturgeon Bay Canal. Residents who witnessed the rescue praised the professionalism and dedication of the service members, noting that their swift action reflects the strong maritime tradition of the Door County community.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
