VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — A night out on the water ended in a rescue for one group of boaters in Virginia Beach.
The Coast Guard confirmed they rescued several people from a charter boat on June 18th, after the boat got stuck on an oyster bed in Broad Bay.
But moments before the accident, viewers sent 13News Now video showing the boat dangerously listing side to side.
"This particular situation, you can see that it's there in the channel and it is unsafe," said Lieutenant Luke Pinneo, after watching the video. "It's a good thing that vessel did not make it out into deeper water."
Pinneo said unfortunately this case is one of many.
Just days before, the Coast Guard terminated a vessel's voyage after it was discovered the captain did not hold a license to operate, among other violations.
It's part of an upward trend the Coast Guard is seeing across Hampton Roads and the rest of the nation.
"From our perspective, it is very concerning to see an increase in vessels and vessel operators - that are underway in an unpredictable and unforgiving environment that is putting lives at risk," said Pinneo.
According to the Coast Guard, a vessel can only contain 12 passengers per voyage, and the captain must have a valid license.
If a charter boat is being used to transport six more people, then it must also undergo an inspection.
Pinneo said it's up to captains and passengers alike to follow the rules, despite not many people knowing they are violating the laws.
"In order to keep yourself and your families safe, you must know what exactly you are getting yourself into," said Pinneo. "Waterways can be dangerous even at the best of times, and even the most experienced should always be aware."
If an emergency situation arises you can always contact the Coast Guard or call 911 directly.