On Monday morning a Tesla CyberTruck ended up underwater at the Ventura Harbor Launch Ramp while attempting to launch a jet ski.
The operation to recover the submerged vehicle drew a coordinated effort from multiple local agencies and specialized tow services.
Shortly before 11:00 am, emergency responders were alerted to the mishap which saw the driver of the CyberTruck scrambling to safety after his vehicle took an unexpected plunge into the harbor. TowBoatUS, based out of Ventura, spearheaded the recovery operation in collaboration with local authorities and specialized teams.
A Tesla CyberTruck became submerged underwater at the Ventura Launch Ramp during a botched Jet Ski Launch on March 10, 2025 (Photo: TowBoatUS)
A TowBoatUS diver was deployed to secure the vehicle underwater, attaching cables to the CyberTruck, which had its front wheels entangled under the dock in a turned position. An additional towboat was brought in to help dislodge the electric pickup from its precarious position under the dock.
The extraction required the concerted efforts of the Ventura City Fire Department, Vessel Assist, Tow Boat US, Harbor Patrol, other Harbor resources, and the Coast Guard to ensure a safe and effective recovery. Redline Towing provided the muscle on land, pulling the CyberTruck back to the safety of the parking area, which had been cordoned off as a precaution against any potential risks posed by the vehicle’s batteries interacting with the saltwater.
A Tesla engineer was called to the scene to inspect the vehicle once it was retrieved from the water. After thorough scrutiny, the electric truck was deemed safe to be towed away without reporting any adverse incidents stemming from the battery or electrical systems.
A Tesla CyberTruck became submerged underwater at the Ventura Launch Ramp during a botched Jet Ski Launch on March 10, 2025 (Photo: TowBoatUS)
The owner’s attempt to launch a jet ski led to this unfortunate incident, despite Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s previous statements suggesting that the CyberTruck could function as a boat for short periods. Musk has made claims in the past regarding the buoyancy and boat-like capabilities of Tesla vehicles, stirring skepticism.
This incident serves as a cautionary tale to vehicle owners entertaining the idea of pushing the limits of their vehicles’ capabilities, especially near water bodies.
