Man Dies After Kayak Capsizes During Guided Tour in Brevard County

A tragic boating incident in Brevard County has claimed the life of a 62-year-old man after a tandem kayak capsized during a guided tour on Turkey Creek, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

FWC officials say the incident occurred Thursday during a guided kayaking tour on Turkey Creek. The victim was sharing a tandem kayak with a 44-year-old woman when the vessel overturned.

After the kayak capsized, the woman was able to return to the kayak safely. Tragically, the man entered the water and could not be located. He was later recovered deceased, officials confirmed.

FWC has extended condolences to the victim’s family and stated that the investigation remains ongoing.

Guided kayaking and eco-tour excursions are popular throughout Florida, particularly in areas like Brevard County. While often marketed as safe and family-friendly, these tours still involve inherent risks—especially when operating on natural waterways.

Companies that offer guided water tours have a legal duty to:

• Provide properly maintained vessels and safety equipment
• Assess water conditions before and during excursions
• Ensure guides are adequately trained and prepared for emergencies
• Give clear safety instructions to participants
• Respond promptly and appropriately when an incident occurs

When a fatality occurs during a guided tour, investigators often examine whether safety protocols were followed, including the availability of life jackets, supervision, rescue readiness, and whether participants were properly instructed.

Potential Legal Options After a Fatal Kayaking Accident

Under Florida law, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim if negligence played a role in the incident. Depending on the facts, liability may involve:

• The tour operator or guiding company
• Equipment providers
• Other responsible parties involved in organizing or supervising the tour

A wrongful death claim may seek compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship and support
• Mental pain and suffering of surviving family members
• Medical or rescue-related expenses incurred before death

Even when an incident is initially described as an “accident,” a full investigation is critical to determine whether preventable safety failures contributed to the loss.

How Flanagan & Bodenheimer Helps Families After Boating Fatalities

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families across Florida who have lost loved ones in boating, kayaking, and water-related accidents, including incidents involving guided tours and commercial operators.

Our firm intentionally maintains a small caseload, allowing us to provide families with direct access to experienced attorneys. We move quickly to:

• Preserve tour records and safety documentation
• Review training procedures and emergency protocols
• Analyze whether state and federal boating regulations were followed
• Identify all available insurance coverage
• Handle all communications with investigators and insurers

There are no upfront costs. We only collect fees if we recover compensation for your family.

If your loved one was killed during a guided kayak tour or boating activity, you deserve answers—and accountability if safety failures occurred.

📞 Contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm for a free, confidential consultation. We represent families throughout Brevard County and across Florida.