Watch: Unconscious boater narrowly avoids ferries before dramatic crash onto rocks

A dramatic video circulating online is drawing attention to the dangers of boating under the influence.

The footage shows the shocking moment an unconscious man  – at the wheel of a boat  – crashes into  and up on a rock embankment in Steilacoom, Washington. The allegedly intoxicated operator narrowly avoided colliding with two ferries before crashing.

“He is passed out behind the wheel,” one observer notes, repeatedly.

Dramatic footage captures alleged DUI boater seconds before Washington crash

After the collision  – during which 21-year-old, Skyler Cantrell was ejected from his seat  – he managed to climb onto the rocks.

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A 21-year-old boater was arrested on suspicion of DUI after crashing into rocks near a dock in Washington state. Witnesses say the boat was speeding and nearly hit two ferries before crashing into a rock embankment. Video circulating online appears to show the operator unconscious behind the wheel.

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According to Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, Cantrell was reportedly intoxicated behind the wheel. West Pierce Fire and Rescue officials rescued him, noting alcohol bottles littered on his boat and there was a strong smell of intoxicants.

Witnesses watch in horror as boat veers toward ferry traffic

Shocked witnesses filmed the incident from the shoreline. Some can be heard expressing concern for the driver moments before  – and after  – the dramatic impact sent the vessel onto the rocks.

Cantrell was taken into custody (and later arrested) for driving under the influence (DUI), and his boat was subsequently removed and impounded.

Response to the incident

Pierce County Sheriff’s Office Marine Services Units responded to the incident on Monday, along with West Pierce Fire & Rescue and personnel from the Steilacoom Department of Public Safety.

“No major injuries were sustained by the operator,” says Carly Cappetto, spokesperson for the sheriff’s office. “There was reasonable suspicion of DUI, and the male was taken into custody for DUI.

“A flatbed tow and a large wrecker to remove the vessel from the water and rocks had to be called to the scene. The boat was removed and impounded. Ferry delays were caused by the incident.” Reports suggest that the 17:15 ferry departure from Steilacoom was delayed for 18 minutes. Subsequent sailings had minimal delays.

“This incident serves as an important reminder not to drink and boat as our 2026 boating season has just opened. This operator is very lucky that no one was hurt and that he didn’t die,” Cappetto concludes.

Authorities say the incident could easily have ended in tragedy, particularly with ferries operating nearby at the height of the boating season. Officials are now using the crash as a stark reminder that alcohol and operating a vessel can be just as dangerous as drink-driving on the road.