Coast Guard Rescues 2 Sailors From Grounded Boat Near Molokaʻi

A Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew airlifted two sailors after their sailboat was grounded near Kaunakakai Harbor, Molokaʻi on Friday, Feb. 5, 2016. The two men were hoisted to safety and taken to Kahului Airport where they were met by Emergency Medical Service personnel.

Watchstanders at Sector Honolulu Command Center received notification at 1:53 a.m. from Towboat US reporting the 43-foot sailing vessel Mithrandirs Dream grounded approximately five miles east of Kaunakakai Harbor.

The Dolphin crew launched from Air Station Barbers Point along with a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew from Station Maui. Ground crews responded from the Maui Fire Department and Maui Police Department as well.

At 3:35 a.m., the Dolphin crew arrived on scene and lowered the rescue swimmer onto the sailing vessel. No injuries were reported.

The Coast Guard took the opportunity to encourage all mariners to ensure they have the proper emergency equipment aboard prior to any departure. “Emergencies are unexpected and occur to even the most experienced mariners. Having life-saving equipment like a VHF-FM radio, life jackets, flares and an emergency position indicating radio beacon or personal locator beacon can make a critical difference in reducing risk should the unexpected happen,” Coast Guard officials said.

A 43-foot sailboat, Mithrandirs Dream, grounded approximately five miles east of Kaunakakai Harbor, Feb. 5, 2016. A Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Air Station Barbers Point hoisted the two sailors aboard and safely transferred them to Kahului Airport, Maui. (U.S. Coast Guard photo courtesy of Air Station Barbers Point/Released)

A 43-foot sailboat, Mithrandirs Dream, grounded approximately five miles east of Kaunakakai Harbor, Feb. 5, 2016. A Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from Air Station Barbers Point hoisted the two sailors aboard and safely transferred them to Kahului Airport, Maui. (U.S. Coast Guard photo courtesy of Air Station Barbers Point/Released)