7 'Stranded and Fatigued' Tourists, 2 Dogs Rescued on Canoes

MIAMI BEACH, FL — What began as an ordinary canoe trip for a group of seven tourists and their two dogs on Tuesday turned into a rescue operation involving a Miami-Dade County fireboat near Haulover Marina.

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"Today a 3 p.m. MDFR Fireboat 21 assisted a group of seven tourist adults and two dogs who were paddle boarding and riding on canoes in the area of the Intracoastal Waterway near Haulover Marina," Erika Benitez of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue told Patch.

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Benitez said that strong winds and currents made it difficult for the tourists to navigate the waters in the area.

"Stranded and fatigued, they requested assistance as they were unable to return on their own," said Benitez. "MDFR fireboat assisted all seven adults and the two dogs back to shore ensuring their safety."

Benitez said that the National Weather Service had issued a small craft advisory on Tuesday which recommended that inexperienced boaters avoid the waters.

The advisory singled out people operating small crafts like canoes.

"We ask that visitors and all boaters check marine conditions before venturing out," Benitez said.

"Everyone should wear personal flotation devices, including pets," she added.

Photos courtesy of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue.