HONOLULU — The Coast Guard is searching, Wednesday, for the owner or operator of an unmanned, abandoned 12-foot blue racing kayak found in the vicinity of Kahana Bay, Oahu, Tuesday.
Anyone with information that may help identify the owner or operator of the kayak is asked to contact the Coast Guard Sector Honolulu Command Center at 808-842-2600.
An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew from Air Station Barbers Point searched the area along with Ocean Safety and Lifeguard Services personnel. Sector Honolulu also issued an urgent marine information broadcast notice to mariners.
Watchstanders at the Sector Honolulu Command Center received a report at 6:27 a.m., Wednesday, from a good Samaritan who located the kayak on the beach Tuesday morning.
There are no identifiable markings, numbers,or gear on the kayak.
There are currently no reported signs of distress or missing persons in the area.
The Coast Guard offers free "If Found" decals to be placed in a visible location on small, human-powered watercraft through the Operation Paddle Smart program. The information on the sticker can allow response entities to quickly identify the vessel's owner and aid search and rescue planners in determining the best course of action. Positive identification may also allow the item to be returned to the owner.
The stickers can be obtained for free at local harbormasters, through the Coast Guard Auxiliary, from Honolulu Sail and Power Squadron offices and at select marine retail and supply stores.