Several large alligators circle boaters after canoe flips, Florida rescuers say

Two boaters were left treading water with large alligators nearby for nearly an hour when their canoe flipped and sank in a Florida lake, according to rescuers.

It happened around 7:30 p.m. Sunday, April 6, in Floral City and both people were rescued — after firefighters figured out how to get around the alligators, according to Citrus County Fire Rescue.

“First responders were dispatched to a possible sinking vessel on Lake Consuella. Upon arrival, crews found a canoe submerged approximately 100-150 yards from shore, with two people clinging to the overturned vessel and no life vests in sight,” the department said in a Monday, April 7, news release.

“Firefighters prepared to swim life vests out — but when several large alligators surfaced nearby, that plan had to be scrapped.”

The size of the alligators was not revealed, but gators in Florida can top 14 feet, which is about the size of an average two-person canoe.

“Thinking quickly, firefighters located a small pedal boat at a nearby property and used it to reach the stranded individuals,” the department said.

“At the same time, Citrus County Sheriff’s Office deputies also found a pedal boat and assisted with the rescue. One individual was pulled to shore by CCSO, while the other was fitted with a life vest and brought in safely by pedal boat.”

The boaters were evaluated for injuries and “declined further medical treatment,” officials said. Firefighters also returned to the water to get the canoe.

“One person shared they had been treading water for nearly an hour before help arrived,” officials said. “A strong reminder — always wear a life vest when out on the water!”

Floral City is about a 65-mile drive north from Tampa.

Lake Consuella is also known as Little Lake and covers about 42 square acres.

This story was originally published April 8, 2025 at 10:43 AM with the headline "Several large alligators circle boaters after canoe flips, Florida rescuers say."