Kayaker Rescued From Cold Waters After His Kayak Capsizes Near Washington Islands

San Juan Islands, Washington, United States — September 29, 2026

A 45-year-old kayaker was rescued after a wave overturned his kayak in the cold waters near Washington’s San Juan Islands.

The incident happened on September 25 near Parker Reef, between Orcas Island and Sucia Island. The man ended up in the water but managed to keep his handheld VHF radio above the surface and use it to call for help.

A Mayday Call From the Water

Coast Guard watchstanders received the emergency call shortly after 8 a.m. The kayaker reported that his boat had capsized and told rescuers that he was holding onto the overturned kayak.

His companion, who was also kayaking in the area, remained afloat and was able to make his own way safely to shore.

Rescuers Reach Him Within an Hour

The U.S. Coast Guard sent an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Air Station Port Angeles and a 45-foot response boat from Station Bellingham to the area.

The response boat reached the kayakers at approximately 9:12 a.m. Crew members pulled the man from the water and recovered his kayak before taking him to Brandt’s Landing Marina on Orcas Island. An ambulance then transported him for medical evaluation.

Preparation Helped Make the Rescue Possible

The kayakers were wearing life jackets and dry suits and had an emergency VHF radio with them. At the time of the rescue, the water temperature was approximately 54 degrees Fahrenheit, or about 12 degrees Celsius.

Coast Guard officials said the equipment and the man’s decision to call for help quickly were important factors in the successful rescue.

The incident serves as another reminder that cold-water emergencies can become dangerous quickly, even when people are properly equipped for an outing on the water.

Sources

• U.S. Coast Guard Northwest / DVIDS — Coast Guard rescues capsized kayaker in San Juan Islands — September 26, 2026.
• MyNorthwest — San Juan Islands Rescue: Coast Guard crews save man after his kayak overturns — September 27, 2026.
• KIRO 7 News — San Juan Islands Rescue: Coast Guard crews save man after his kayak overturns — September 27, 2026.