A Massachusetts family’s harrowing survival story demonstrates how self-reliance and resourcefulness can overcome life-threatening emergencies when help isn’t immediately available.
Hear the distress calls in the second video below.
Story Highlights
- The Sullivan family survived 36 hours stranded on a remote island after a boat fire.
- Washed-ashore marine radio enabled rescue after cell service failed.
- Father transferred to the burn center, and mother is in critical condition.
- Incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and backup communication.
Fire Forces Family to Abandon Ship
Patrick and Cynthia Sullivan, along with their son Tyler, were sleeping aboard their 30-foot vessel “Third Wave” when fire erupted Monday night, October 20th. Anchored off Cape Cod, the family faced an immediate life-or-death decision as flames consumed their boat.
They abandoned ship and swam through cold waters to reach Naushon Island, suffering serious burns and injuries during their escape.
36-Hour Survival on Remote Island
Naushon Island proved both a sanctuary and a prison for the injured family. The privately-owned island, part of the Elizabeth Islands, offered shelter in an abandoned farmhouse but provided no cell service or easy means of communication.
For more than a day, the Sullivans endured their injuries while isolated from help, demonstrating the kind of resilience our forefathers would recognize.
Family who fled burning boat rescued after being stranded on Mass. island for days. pic.twitter.com/wlQLLOG1Io
— WCVB-TV Boston (@WCVB) October 23, 2025
Marine Radio Becomes Lifeline
Wednesday morning brought salvation through an unexpected source. Tyler Sullivan discovered a marine radio that had washed ashore and remarkably remained functional.
This critical piece of equipment enabled the family to issue a mayday call, proving once again that reliable, traditional technology often outperforms modern conveniences in true emergencies.
Coast Guard and Volunteers Execute Rescue
The U.S. Coast Guard responded swiftly to the distress call, coordinating with National Trust volunteers already on the island. Patrick Sullivan was airlifted to Cape Cod Hospital before transfer to a Boston burn center, while Cynthia remains in critical condition.
Their son Christopher expressed gratitude for the rescue efforts and requested prayers for his mother’s recovery. The incident underscores how preparedness and traditional emergency equipment can mean the difference between life and death when modern infrastructure fails.
Sources:
Massachusetts family rescued after being stranded for 2 days on island off Cape Cod
Family stranded off Cape Cod coast after boat fire rescued days later after radio washes up on beach
