Search for Missing Hawai’i Aloha Crew Member Continues

The United States Coast Guard continues its search for a missing boater after a 74-foot sailing vessel, Hawai’i Aloha, grounded in the wave zone near the Four Seasons Hualalai Resort. In the search is the Coast Guard cutter Kittiwake and the 65-dolphin helicopter and crew.

The captain of the boat and three crew members were rescued safely after exiting the vessel prior to its grounding.

On Monday, the Department of Land and Natural Resources released information regarding the grounding or drifting of at least six vessels attributed to the weekend storm experienced statewide.

The DLNR Divisions of Aquatic Resources and Boating Ocean Recreation are currently working together with salvage and insurance companies to develop a removal plan for the Hawai’i Aloha.

“We want to exercise great care in removing this boat, as it still contains more than 500 gallons of diesel fuel and is resting in a position that could cause environmental damage. The plans we’re working on currently will take into consideration all factors to minimize any further damage to fragile natural resources,” interim DLNR Chairperson Carty Chang said.

Other groundings that occurred over the weekend throughout the state include:

• The 45-foot sail boat, Kanua Kai, in Lahaina, Maui.
• A 780-foot container ship, Horizon Pacific, in the Honolulu Harbor
• A 13-foot Boston Whaler with an outboard engine, off of Swanzee Beach Park, Oahu
• The 26-foot sailing vessel, Kaile, in Kaneohe Bay, Oahu
• A 36-to-38-foot sailing vessel, unnamed that was reported loose and heading toward Chinaman’s Hat, Oahu. The United States Marine Corps were unable to locate the vessel due to weather conditions.

DORBOR Administrator Ed Underwood stressed the importance of having the proper safety gear and maintaining observation of ocean conditions. “Always have required safety equipment on board your vessel and to pay close attention to marine weather conditions and reports.”