On Friday, September 10, 2021, the U.S. Coast Guard and partner agencies rescued Philip Grenz, operator of the disabled sailing vessel Epic who was last seen on September 2, 2021, approximately 310-nautical miles southwest of Oʻahu.  Grenz is reported to be in stable condition.

On Saturday, September 4, 2021, Sector Honolulu watchstanders received a report of the missing mariner who departed Nawiliwili Harbor and had not arrived at his next port of call in Haleiwa, Oʻahu.

Upon notification, watchstanders issued an urgent marine information broadcast and launched Coast Guard search crews including the Auxiliary, who assisted in the search by conducting physical checks of over 20 harbors, boat ramps, and marinas throughout Oahu and Kauai.

A Navy P-8 Poseidon aircrew located the missing vessel approximately 310-nautical miles southwest of Oʻahu. An Air Station Barbers Point C-130 Hercules aircrew dropped a rescue kit that contained a radio, water, and food.  The cutter Hart crew arrived on scene at and recovered Grenz.

Sector Honolulu watchstanders issued a Hazard to Navigation Broadcast to mariners alerting them to the disabled vessel’s location.

Photo credit: U.S. Coast Guard