Search Launched After Unmanned Kayak Found off Maui

The Coast Guard is seeking the public’s help in identifying the owner of a kayak found adrift approximately one mile off Maui, Nov. 5, 2013. Courtesy photo.

By Wendy Osher

The US Coast Guard is seeking the public’s help in identifying the owner of an unmanned kayak found floating adrift in waters about one mile south of La Perouse Bay, on Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2013, officials said.

The Coast Guard described the vessel as a two-person, Otter kayak, that is yellow with “Old Town” markings.

The passenger vessel Maui Magic notified the Coast Guard of the unmanned kayak at around 11 a.m., authorities said.

A search is currently being conducted for a possible kayaker in distress in the area where the vessel was located.

Coast Guard officials say crews are utilizing a 45-foot Response Boat from Station Maui and an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter from Air Station Barbers Point as part of the search effort.

Anyone that is able to identify the kayak or is aware of a missing kayaker that was using the vessel, is asked to contact the Sector Honolulu Command Center at (808) 842-2600.

The Coast Guard is seeking the public’s help in identifying the owner of a kayak found adrift approximately one mile off Maui, Nov. 5, 2013. Courtesy photo.