UPDATE: Owner of Unmanned Dinghy Located

The Coast Guard is seeking the public’s assistance after receiving a report of an unmanned adrift black and grey inflatable dinghy offshore approximately two and a half miles west of Kāʻanapali, Maui, March 10, 2014.  (US Coast Guard photo)

By Maui Now Staff

The owner of an unmanned dinghy found floating adrift off of Maui on Monday has since been located and is not in distress, according to the US Coast Guard.

The agency issued an update saying the dinghy had broken loose from the harbor, and that the owner is safe.

The agency had sought the public’s help in locating the owner after the vessel was found floating adrift about two and a half miles west of Kāʻanapali, at 7:45 a.m. on Monday, March 10, 2014.

Crews aboard the Molokaʻi Princess ferry reported the incident and took the dinghy in tow to Kaunakakai Harbor, according to earlier reports.

The Coast Guard took the opportunity to remind the public to register and label all watercraft and equipment with contact information.

The Coast Guard offers “If Found” decals free of charge that enable them and other responding agencies to quickly account for owners and prevent an unnecessary search.

Agency officials say the stickers can be obtained for free of charge at local harbormasters, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, from Honolulu Sail and Power Squadron offices and at select marine retail and supply stores.