The Coast Guard assisted five boaters who were stranded approximately 40 miles east of Oregon Inlet Saturday morning.

A person on the pleasure craft “Fin Seeker” contacted watchstanders at Sector North Carolina’s command center at 10 a.m. via VHF-FM radio channel 16 and reported that their boat was disabled due to possible engine problems.

The Coast Guard launched a 47-foot motor lifeboat crew from Station Oregon Inlet to assist, and put the Fin Seeker on a 30-minute communications schedule.

Once on scene, the boat crew was able to put the boat in tow and safely take them to the Oregon Inlet Boat Ramp in Nags Head. There were no reported injuries.

“We applaud these boaters for doing the responsible thing and wearing life jackets,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Mark Hudak, boat crew member during the case. “Utilizing the appropriate safety gear and staying in contact with the Coast Guard are two of the most important actions to take when in distress.”