VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – The Coast Guard union says luck had a big role to play in the rescue of two men off Point Grey this morning.

A fishing boat sank off Point Grey; it began taking on water shortly after 5 a.m. The men were treated for hypothermia.

A commercial tugboat was first on scene, while the Coast Guard from Sea Island made it in 21 minutes.

Dave Clark with the union is surprised the Coast Guard made it there that fast, but points out it would have taken less time from the recently closed Kits base.

“These fellows were in the water for quite a long time, where we would have had a rescue five, ten minutes. We’re not in the normal coldness that we have during the winter, so they are extremely lucky, but the five ten minutes would have made a difference.”

It’s the second time in recent days that a rescue on the waters would have come from Kitsilano base, had it still been open.

Federal NDP MP Don Davies is quick to call for the Kits base to re-open.

“We’re all very happy that people weren’t seriously injured here; we’re grateful for that. But we don’t want to wait until a death or serious injury occurs before we make what is obviously a right decision.”