KAILUA-KONA — DLNR on Wednesday identified the boat owner cited for not having a boat education certificate after a fishing boat ran aground last week at Kohanaiki in North Kona.
Phillip Hoyle was cited by DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement for the offense, a violation of Hawaii Administrative Rules 13-244.15.5 (a), according to DLNR spokeswoman Deborah Ward. He is the only owner listed for Hoku Boats LLC, which operated the “Hoku Kea.”
The rule, which DLNR began to enforce in November 2014, requires people to show proof on demand of successful completion of an approved boating safety course.
Fines for a rule violation will be not less than $50 and not more than $1,000 or sentencing to a term of imprisonment of not more than 30 days, or both, for each violation; the court may also prevent an individual from operating a vessel in state waters for up to 30 days.
The 39-foot powerboat “Hoku Kea” ran aground Friday evening near Kohanaiki, also known as Pine Trees. The beach was subsequently closed because of fuel leaking from the boat onto the immediate area of the beach; debris was also found in the area.
The owner had pollution insurance, which hired PENCO to remove 400 gallons of diesel, a few quarts of oil and seven batteries. They have also signed a contract with Cates International, which was on site Tuesday morning to discuss salvage efforts and preparation to remove the boat.
Hoyle, reached Wednesday evening, declined comment.