Paddle Boarders Rescued from West Maui Waters

Firefighters responded to a group of standup paddle boarders having trouble getting back to shore in West Maui on Sunday afternoon, April 24, 2016.

Nāpili firefighters and ocean safety personnel from Kapalua, responded to a report at 12:50 p.m. of three standup paddle boarders in distress off of the Kahana Reef condominium, located at 4471 Lower Honoapiʻilani Road.

A family from Washington State–a father in his 40’s, and his son and daughter in their 20’s–described as novice paddlers, could not make it back to shore on their own.

A bystander watching them from shore, called 911 after seeing them unable to make any progress for about 45 minutes.

Firefighters arrived at 1 p.m. and to find three people lying down on standup paddle boards about 100 yards offshore. An ocean safety rescue watercraft arrived and brought them back to shore unharmed.

Fire officials say none of the individuals required medical attention.