Captain and Crew Honored After Dramatic Kayaker Rescue

The crew of a Glass Bottom Shipwreck Tours vessel operating out of Munsing, Michigan, received formal recognition last week for a swift and effective rescue of two kayakers caught in dangerously rough water. Under the leadership of Captain Kate Faust, the tour boat’s crew reacted quickly when the pair encountered 32-mph winds and significant wave action that put them at risk.

Rapid Response in Severe Conditions

According to reports, the incident unfolded on September 20, when conditions on the water deteriorated rapidly and the kayakers faced strong winds and heavy seas. The tour boat’s crew diverted from their regular route to render assistance. Working together, they deployed a homemade metal “man overboard” retrieval system to bring both kayakers safely aboard. The improvised device, combined with steady seamanship and coordinated effort, allowed the team to complete the rescue without further injury to those involved.

Recognition from the U.S. Coast Guard

On June 16, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Sault Ste. Marie presented Captain Faust and her crew with the Captain David P. Dobbins Award. This award recognizes “outstanding actions accomplished while prosecuting search and rescue missions on the Great Lakes,” and is reserved for commercial and recreational mariners whose efforts make a significant difference in saving lives on the water. The Coast Guard sector praised the crew, stating, “We are always thankful for the outstanding job that our commercial and recreational mariners do helping those in need on the water. Congratulations to Captain Faust, Ms. Witty and Mr. Whitehead on a job well done!”

Teamwork, Training, and Preparedness

Rescues in high winds and heavy seas demand calm leadership, practiced teamwork, and an understanding of vessel handling under stress. The successful outcome in this case highlights the crew’s preparedness and ability to improvise safely when standard equipment or conditions are not ideal. Using an improvised retrieval system requires caution and coordination; the crew’s work demonstrates how training and quick decision-making can prevent a dangerous situation from becoming a tragedy.

Community Impact and the Role of Commercial Operators

Events like this underscore the important role commercial and recreational mariners play in Great Lakes safety. Tour operators, charter captains, and other boat crews are often first on scene when recreational boaters or paddlers are in distress. Their vigilance and willingness to assist complement official search-and-rescue resources and strengthen boating safety throughout the region.

Lessons for Boaters and Paddlers

While every incident is unique, several common-sense precautions can reduce the need for rescues and improve outcomes when emergencies occur. Checking weather forecasts before heading out, understanding local conditions, carrying appropriate safety gear, and wearing a personal flotation device are essential steps for all water users. Maintaining clear communication plans and knowing when to seek shelter or ask for help are equally important.

Acknowledgment and Thanks

The Captain David P. Dobbins Award recognizes courage, competence, and compassion in search-and-rescue operations. The Coast Guard’s acknowledgement of Captain Kate Faust, Ms. Witty, and Mr. Whitehead highlights their professionalism and dedication. Their actions not only saved two lives but also reinforced the value of preparedness and mutual aid on the water.

As recreational use of the Great Lakes continues to grow, stories like this serve as reminders of both the hazards these waters can present and the skill of those who patrol them or operate vessels for the public. The recognition awarded to this team honors that skill and the lifesaving difference it can make.