Coast Guard airlifts man from sinking catamaran

LIHUE (HawaiiNewsNow) – The U.S. Coast Guard airlifted a man from a sinking catamaran 23 miles off the coast of Kauai Sunday evening.

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Rescuers received a report at 6 p.m., of a 35-foot recreational catamaran, called Alakai, was disabled and experiencing a “steering casualty” while going from Oahu to Kauai.

An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew from USCG Air Station Barbers Point were able to hoist the man from his vessel and bring him safely to Lihue Airport.

EMS evaluated him at the airport and released him with no medical concerns.

The catamaran sank shortly after the man was hoisted to safety, according to the USCG.

The vessel was left with approximately 30 to 40 gallons of diesel fuel, two batteries, and three to four gallons of oil aboard.

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An investigation has been opened to determine what caused the vessel to sink.

USCG Sector Honolulu watchstanders established communications with the boater via text message.

The owner reported that his vessel was flooding, and he was concerned it might sink.

In addition to the air rescue team, a crew aboard a 45-foot response boat joined the coordinated effort from USCG Station Kauai.

“It’s incredibly important for mariners to equip their vessels with the proper safety equipment,” said Cmdr. Andrew Williams, USCG search and rescue mission coordinator. “Wearing a lifejacket can significantly reduce the risk of drowning, and reliable communication devices help mariners contact the Coast Guard in the event of an emergency.”

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