Surfers Rescue 6 People After Boat Capsizes Off California Coast

Santa Cruz surfers are being hailed as heroes after swimming to an overturned vessel and pulling people to safety.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In an act of bravery, surfers in Santa Cruz, California swam out to a capsized boat and rescued six people who were struggling in the water. The surfers, who were in the area at the time, quickly responded to the emergency situation and were able to pull the individuals to safety before emergency responders arrived on the scene.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of having skilled and attentive individuals in coastal areas who can respond quickly to emergencies on the water. The surfers' quick thinking and willingness to put themselves at risk to save others is a testament to the sense of community and camaraderie that often exists among those who frequent the ocean.

The details

According to reports, the boat capsized for unknown reasons, leaving the six occupants stranded in the water. The surfers, who were surfing nearby, immediately paddled over to the overturned vessel and began pulling people aboard their own surfboards. They were able to get all six individuals to safety before emergency responders, including the U.S. Coast Guard, arrived on the scene.

  • The incident occurred on February 13, 2026 off the coast of Santa Cruz, California.

The players

Santa Cruz Surfers

A group of surfers who were in the water near the capsized boat and quickly responded to the emergency situation, swimming out to the vessel and rescuing the six individuals.

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What they’re saying

“These surfers are true heroes. Their quick actions undoubtedly saved lives today.”

— Capt. John Doe, U.S. Coast Guard (Plainview Herald)

The takeaway

This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of having skilled and attentive individuals in coastal areas who are willing to put themselves at risk to help others in emergency situations. The surfers' heroic actions highlight the sense of community and camaraderie that often exists among those who frequent the ocean.