Petty Officer 2nd Class Richard Parra, a rescue swimmer at Coast Guard Air Station Sitka, Alaska, stands with boaters found at a cabin on Chichagof Island near Sitka after they were reported overdue, Feb. 2, 2016. After engine problems and inclement weather, the boaters were unable to make the return trip to Pelican. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)
JUNEAU, Alaska — An Air Station Sitka, Alaska, MH-60 Jayhawk aircrew rescued six boaters who were stranded on Chichagof Island near Sitka, Tuesday.
Sector Juneau watchstanders received a report that the boaters had not returned to Pelican after their day trip to a cabin on Chichagof Island, Monday. Watchstanders requested the launch of a Jayhawk crew to search for the overdue boaters.
The boaters were located in the cabin by the aircrew. After engine problems and inclement weather, the boaters were unable to make the return trip to Pelican. The air crew transported five of the boaters back to Pelican. The boat’s owner chose to remain at the cabin until the weather improves. The aircrew provided the owner with additional food and water before departing.
“Alaska’s ever-changing weather can quickly turn a day trip into an overnighter,” said Lt. Cmdr. John M. Leach, a pilot at the air station. “No matter how short your voyage, it is always a good idea to pack extra food and water and communication devices.”
Weather on scene consisted of 13-foot seas and 28-mph winds.