Public Help Sought in Locating Owner of Adrift Kayak off Molokaʻi

An unmanned and adrift kayak was discovered by an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew approximately 12 miles southwest of La’au Point, Molokai, March 29, 2015. There were no contents aboard, no discernible markings and no signs of distress in the immediate area. (Coast Guard courtesy photo)

By Maui Now Staff

The US Coast Guard is seeking the public’s help in identifying the owner of a kayak found floating adrift approximately 12 miles southwest of Lāʻau Point, Molokaʻi on Sunday, March 29, 2015.

Officials with the Coast Guard Sector Honolulu Command Center received notification from a Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew of the finding, saying the 12-foot blue kayak was found partially submerged.

Crews searched approximately 170 square miles for three hours, but were unable to locate anyone.  Officials say there are no missing persons reports or reports of anyone in distress in the area.

An unmanned and adrift kayak was discovered by an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew approximately 12 miles southwest of La’au Point, Molokai, March 29, 2015. There were no contents aboard, no discernible markings and no signs of distress in the immediate area. (Coast Guard courtesy photo)

Anyone with information that may help identify the owner of the kayak is asked to contact the Coast Guard Sector Honolulu Command Center at (808) 842-2600.

The Coast Guard encourages mariners to label their watercraft with their name, address and phone number.  The agency offers free Paddle Smart weather-proof stickers that can be applied to vessels.

Labeling of watercraft is intended to help save lives, recover missing property, and reduce the time, effort and resources expended on non-emergency search and rescue, said Coast Guard officials.