The U.S. Coast Guard and Maui Fire Department’s Ocean Safety crews rescued two kayakers trapped on Molokini Crater on Monday.
Watchstanders at Sector Honolulu Command Center received notification at 3:20 p.m. from the Maui Fire Department of two kayakers who were beset by weather and were forced onto the rocks on Molokini Crater. After climbing to safety, the kayakers called 911 for assistance, according to the Coast Guard.
A 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew from Station Maui and a jet ski from Ocean Safety responded.
At 3:46 p.m., the jet ski arrived on scene and ferried the kayakers from the rock to the awaiting RB-M. The kayakers were safely brought aboard the RB-M and transported to Station Maui at 4:15 p.m. No injuries were reported and both kayakers were wearing lifejackets.
Conditions at the scene included 29 mph winds and 3-foot seas. Visibility was 8 to 10 miles, according to the COast Guard.
The Coast Guard advises the public to always check weather conditions prior to getting underway, know your limits and to always carry the proper safety gear while on the water. This includes life jackets, flares and a VHF marine radio. For more information on boating safety click here.