Coast Guard crews rescued three boaters from a capsized vessel in Florida.

Authorities said the boat flipped over, and the trio were stranded at sea for approximately nine hours off Captiva Island on Sunday, February 23.

A family member contacted Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg watchstanders around 1 am, reporting the last contact with the vessel occupants had been at 8 pm on Saturday.

Dramatic footage shows the distressed individuals sitting on top of their overturned vessel as emergency responders approached.

The stranded passengers, reported to be in good health, were safely transported to the Coast Guard station, where emergency medical services were standing by to provide care.

Chief Warrant Officer Dennise Werre of Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg said: 'We were able to locate and rescue the three boaters thanks to the quick coordination of the Coast Guard and the Lee County Sheriff's Office, along with the use of critical search tools.

'Completing a float plan with a loved one prior to going out on a vessel is critical. Float plans provide first responders with information such as the intended route, how many people are aboard, and what safety equipment may be available.'