Surfers Rescue Family of Six from Capsized Boat in Santa Cruz

Three-time Mavericks champion Darryl 'Flea' Virostko among the heroic rescuers

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A boat carrying a family of six capsized in heavy surf off West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz on Saturday morning. Several surfers, including three-time Mavericks competition winner Darryl 'Flea' Virostko, quickly paddled out and pulled the family members to safety.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the dangers of boating in rough ocean conditions and the importance of wearing life jackets. It also showcases the bravery and quick thinking of the local surfing community, who risked their own safety to rescue the stranded family.

The details

According to authorities, the boat barreled into the breaking surf around 11:45 am, sending the family of six, including four children, into the water. Virostko and other surfers, including Mike Dilloughery, paddled out and pulled the parents and children onto their boards, navigating treacherous waves to bring them to safety. The family was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

  • The incident occurred around 11:45 am on February 7, 2026.

The players

Darryl 'Flea' Virostko

A three-time winner of the Mavericks big wave surfing competition, known for his heroic rescues in dangerous surf conditions.

Mike Dilloughery

A local surfer who also responded to the capsized boat and helped rescue the family members.

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What they’re saying

“Crazy situation yesterday. I saw the boat coming as I was outside dodging a big middle peak set. He zoomed by me and I saw he had his family on the boat. As I watched him drive straight into a big white wash I knew they went down and it was time to paddle in as quickly as possible to help save the family.”

— Darryl 'Flea' Virostko, Three-time Mavericks competition winner (Instagram)

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of boating safety, especially in treacherous ocean conditions. The heroic actions of the local surfing community, led by Darryl 'Flea' Virostko, likely saved the lives of the stranded family and underscores the vital role that skilled and courageous individuals can play in emergency situations.