A kayaker who attempted to make a 2,400-mile trip from California to Hawaii is "very lucky to be alive," said the Coast Guard, after rescuing him about 60 miles from the California Coast.
The 57-year-old left Monterey on May 30 in a craft fitted with a solar panel to power the electronics on board, the Coast Guard said in a statement on Tuesday. But eight days later the panel failed and he turned for home.
"A distress call was made on June 10th as the man started to become disoriented," the statement said.
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An MH-65 helicopter was sent from Los Angeles to find him, and it directed the USCG Cutter Aspen to pick him up about 63 miles southwest of Point Conception. The kayaker reported no injuries and was in good health, according to Reuters.
"A voyage from California to Hawaii is a long and treacherous journey for any vessel and exponentially more dangerous for a kayaker," said Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Timothy Hall.
"His preparedness allowed him to call for help but he is very lucky to be alive."
The Coast Guard's statement reminded all mariners that filing a float plan with a friend would increase their chances of being rescued.
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