Kayaker rescued 6 miles off South Point

The U.S. Coast Guard and Hawaii County Fire Department crews rescued a kayaker Monday 6 miles off South Point.

The crew of Coast Guard Cutter Kimball recovered the kayaker with his craft and transported him to Keauhou Bay.

No injuries or medical concerns were reported.

At 7:55 a.m., the Coast Guard received a report from county dispatch reporting it received a call from a kayaker in distress. The kayaker stated he became beset by weather while fishing Sunday night and drifted off shore. He stated he was capsizing and fatigued.

The fire department launched an Air 1 helicopter air crew in response, while the Coast Guard issued an urgent broadcast notice to mariners and diverted multiple Coast Guard assets to assist.

The Air 1 crew arrived on scene, located the kayaker and remained overhead until the Kimball arrived.

“The kayak blended in with the whitecaps created by the strong winds,” said Seaman Michael Bassman, a lookout aboard the Kimball. “This made the mission incredibly difficult but also all the more fulfilling with its successful conclusion.”

Because of these difficulties, the Coast Guard recommends water users wear bright clothing while on the water to assist search and rescue crews during emergencies.

“The islands are still feeling the aftereffects of Hurricane Douglas, and we urge people to exercise caution due to the high surf and strong rip currents caused by the storm,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Jonathan Lackey.