Strong Winds Force Ocean Rescue in West Maui

Maui near shore waters, file photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

Strong winds prompted a rescue in waters off of the Royal Lahaina Resort yesterday that blew four ocean-goers off course.

Ocean Safety crews came to the aid of a father and son who were fishing on a kayak, and another son and his friend who were spearfishing on a longboard.

Authorities say the group was overpowered by strong winds that pushed them about a quarter mile offshore at around 1:50 on Tuesday afternoon.

The group, all residents at the Ka’anapali Hillside, began waving for help when it became apparent that they were in distress, officials said.

Crews aboard a rescue jet ski brought the four male parties back to the beach. None required medical attention.