
In 2019, John Fleming, a resident of Pinellas County, Florida, sold his 31-foot sailboat, Shenanigans—a vessel he had once sailed solo from North Carolina to Florida. Five years later, Hurricane Helene washed the boat ashore in Florida. Authorities have instructed Fleming to remove the vessel or face fines.
Fleming had sold the boat to a man in North Carolina, who later sold it to someone in the Bahamas. The boat was eventually abandoned and washed ashore in Florida.
Fleming has been in contact with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to arrange for the boat's removal. He has expressed frustration with the situation, noting that he is being held responsible for a boat he no longer owns.
The incident highlights the challenges authorities face in managing abandoned vessels, which can pose environmental hazards and navigational risks. Fleming's case underscores the complexities of boat ownership and the responsibilities that persist even after a sale.
As of now, the boat remains on the shore, awaiting removal. Fleming continues to work with authorities to resolve the situation and avoid potential fines.