Overdue boater found in Bahamas, Coast Guard says

Venice Graham, 53, set sail Wednesday night from Hallandale Beach

HALLANDALE BEACH, Fla. – A South Florida boater who was expected to arrive in South Bimini, Bahamas, after setting sail Wednesday night from Hallandale Beach has been found. 

Venice Graham, 53, was found in the Bahamas after his trip was delayed because of engine troubles, the U.S. Coast Guard said Thursday night.

The Coast Guard said Graham left Hallandale Beach about 8 p.m. Wednesday in a white, 23-foot Hydra-Sport with Florida tag 7077GE.

He was expected to arrive in South Bimini at midnight.

Graham's friend contacted the Coast Guard about 9 a.m. Thursday after discovering that Graham never arrived.

"I'm glad that Mr. Graham is safe and we have a positive outcome for this case," Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Stefan Overton said. "Cellphone service isn't always available and coverage can be affected when traveling outside the United States. The Coast Guard encourages all mariners to outfit their boat with proper marine radio equipment so they can communicate with other boaters and the Coast Guard if they experience trouble with their boat."

Family members told Local 10 News that Graham was going to the Bahamas to sell his boat.


About the Author:

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.