Siesta Key Rescue: Dog, Swimmer Saved by Vigilant Banana Boat Operator
- "When you're in the ocean, you don't use rafts — they're made for pools, not open water. I've rescued multiple people over the years because of this mistake." – Captain Frank Watrous
Siesta Key, FL – June 24, 2025 | A gusty afternoon nearly turned tragic off Siesta Key when a family dog lounging on a raft was blown offshore — with its owner, and two teenage rescuers, soon struggling against the powerful current.
That’s when a familiar yellow shape appeared on the horizon: the Banana Boat, captained by Frank Watrous of Siesta Key Aqua Adventures. Frank, a fifth-generation Sarasota native, quickly recognized the danger and turned his watercraft into a rescue vessel.
“I was down the beach luckily, and we had a strong 20-knot wind pick up all at once,” Frank said. “The raft was way offshore with a dog on it, and the waves were getting big. I rescued the dog first, then saw the woman swimming toward it and brought her a life jacket. I told her to swim back to shore.”
Two unnamed teens, aged 16–17, had also started swimming out to help. Frank intercepted them after assisting the woman. “I let them know she had a vest and was safe — then told them to swim back while conditions were still manageable.”
Frank emphasized this wasn’t a rare situation. “People don’t realize — those pool floats? They’re dangerous in open water. I’ve rescued two or three people before because of them. Especially with our strong easterly winds in the afternoon, a float can be swept out in seconds.”
An Ohio resident visiting Siesta Key, Rob Sellars, who witnessed the event, said, “If Frank hadn’t come along… the outcome would have been different.” Frank’s boss, Richard Campbell, echoed the praise: “Frank’s a true Florida Man. Works 7 days a week, 13 hours a day, always looking out for people on the beach.”
Frank added that paddle boards, large floats like swan boats, and untethered rafts are all common risks. “They’re great for pools or calm bays, but not out here when the wind picks up.”
About Siesta Key Aqua Adventures
Located right on one of Florida’s most iconic beaches, Siesta Key Aqua Adventures isn’t just about fun — it’s about safe, memorable experiences on the water. Offering everything from Banana Boat Rides and Dolphin Tours to Private Charters and Parasailing, their focus is clear: fun, safety, and a love for the Gulf.
Captain Frank’s quick actions are a perfect example of what sets this business apart — blending local knowledge, attentiveness, and a serious commitment to keeping beachgoers safe.
As a fellow local business owner, I found Frank’s actions to be a powerful reminder of how critical our small businesses and their leaders are in keeping our beaches safe — not just for locals, but for visitors as well. The quick thinking, selflessness, and community spirit displayed by Captain Frank Watrous is nothing short of heroic.
