POINT PLEASANT, NJ – You wouldn’t think it, but at times, depending upon the tides and current, the Point Pleasant canal can be one of the more difficult bodies of water to navigate in Ocean County. The currents can be strong and there are sometimes swift currents that can overcome smaller vessels captained by inexperienced boaters.
Today, the New Jersey State Police reported they had rescued 11 passengers from a sinking vessel in the canal on August 14th that was overcome with large waves.
According to the NJSP, “At approximately 4:24 p.m., Sergeant First Class Christopher Kochman, along with Troopers Michael Sugzda, Kristofer Buonomo, Francis Morris, and Luke Drazdik of Point Pleasant Station observed a vessel in distress in the Point Pleasant Canal.”
The agency reported that as the troopers approached the vessel, they discovered that the 21-foot Sea Ray that took on several large waves over its bow began to take on water.
“The troopers immediately began to render emergency assistance by physically assisting seven children and four adults from the water onto a State Police vessel before transporting them to safety. There were no reported injuries as a result of the incident,” police said. “We would like to remind everyone to wear their personal flotation devices while on the water.”