Authorities said "quick thinking" helped save four people stranded in a sinking boat just east of South Padre Island.
U.S. Coast Guard officals confirmed that the rescue took place 12 miles east of Port Isabel on Sunday afternoon.
Rescuers told Action 4 News that a 24-foot boat named the “Sea Ray” lost power in the middle of four- to five-foot seas.
The boat owner was able to use his cell phone to call for help.
Coast Guard officials said that all four people aboard the boat were wearing their life preservers.
“Once their vessel lost power, they immediately anchored to keep their bow into the waves,” said U.S. Coast Guard Cmdr. Dan Deptula. “Their good thinking ensured our crews had enough time to find them, but they were prepared for the worst.”
Coast Guard officials are urging boaters to carry reliable a VHF marine-band radio with them for trips out to sea.
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