06/18/2026
0900 Hours, Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Smith Point Sea Rescue (SPSR) received a direct call from a local boater reporting a 22-foot center console sinking pierside in shallow Rock Hole Creek, off the Little Wicomico River. With no owner name or contact information available, the SPSR Duty Captain and crew responded by car to the location to assess the situation.
After speaking with neighbors, SPSR learned that the vessel owner was a weekend resident from Fredericksburg and was able to establish contact with him. With the assistance of Bubba Wilkins and his boat Shady Lady, to handle the shallow water, SPSR assembled a seven-person crew to conduct the recovery operation.
Using come-alongs and portable pumps, SPSR successfully raised and dewatered the vessel. The boat was then towed to Smith Point Marina for haul-out and further inspection. Total response time was approximately 4.0 hours. KS
Smith Point Sea Rescue extends its sincere appreciation to Bubba Wilkins and Jetts Marine Inc. for his, personal assistance, and direct support in helping raise, dewater, and tow this absentee owner's vessel.
SPSR and Friends — “There When Needed.”
Bill Turville, Editor