Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy had a scary experience while out on his boat in Nantucket when he had to be rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Portnoy, who shared the ordeal with his followers on TikTok, explained that he lost power on his boat while out with his mom in Massachusetts.
Despite his efforts to fix the issue, Portnoy found himself adrift at sea without power, radio, or anchor. He attempted to steer the boat to safety and even used a flare gun to signal for help, but it was a girl in a small boat who noticed his distress and called the Coast Guard for assistance.
The Coast Guard responded promptly and towed Portnoy’s boat back to the harbor. A spokesperson from the U.S. Coast Guard Station Brant Point commended Portnoy for using distress signals and praised the good Samaritan who contacted them for help.
Following the incident, Portnoy expressed uncertainty about getting back on a boat anytime soon. The experience was enough to keep him grounded for the time being, as he reflected on the dangers of the sea.
While the situation ended well, it serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared while out on the water. Having proper safety equipment, like distress signals and a working radio, can make all the difference in emergencies like this.
Portnoy’s adventure may have ended safely, but it’s a cautionary tale for all boaters to stay vigilant and be ready for the unexpected when enjoying time out on the water. It’s a reminder that even experienced boaters can find themselves in challenging situations, and being prepared can mean all the difference between a close call and a disaster.