The Coast Guard rescued a father, 42, and his two sons, 8 and 12, in an operation after their boat capsized off the coast of Hawaii. On Saturday, October 26, 2024, authorities received a mayday call from the dad at 12:10 p.m. local time, according to a news release from the the US Coast Guard.
A helicopter and an airplane were dispatched to begin searching for the family in the waters west of Maui, south of Lanai, and west of Kaho’olawe. After five hours, the helicopter found the father and sons “clinging” to the capsized 16-foot boat about 7 miles south of Manele Harbor.
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Neither the father nor sons were wearing life jackets, according to the news release. A video showed the rescue operation in which the family was hoisted into the helicopter by basket. The father said a large wave hit their boat, capsizing it.
No one sustained any injuries. Weather conditions at the time of the rescue were winds at 9 mph with 3- to 5-foot seas. The father and sons were transported to Kahului Airport in Maui after being rescued.
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The Coast Guard issued a warning about staying prepared. “Carrying a handheld marine radio allows you to notify first responders if you end up in the water or separated from your vessel,” Lt. Zachary Kayser, command duty officer of Sector Honolulu command center said. “We recommend all boaters wear life jackets when underway. Emergencies unfold quickly and may not allow enough time to find and fasten a life jacket.”
People praised the rescue efforts of the Coast Guard.
“WOW Thank you for your service!” one person wrote, with another adding, “Awesome and brave Coast Guards rescuers.”
