WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — At approximately 1:50pm on Thursday, August 14, 2025, the US Coast Guard (USCG) broadcasted that 6 kayaks carrying 12 people were in distress between Patos Island and Sucia Island, WA.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound issued an urgent marine information broadcast at approximately 1:50 p.m., after being notified via, VHF channel-16 that 12 kayakers, including six children, were in distress between Patos Island and Sucia Island and in need of assistance.
– US Coast Guard (August 16, 2025)
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) were patrolling nearby and responded. RCMP worked alongside Washington State Park authorities and the USCG get the kayakers onto their vessels.
Click for more information
Click for more information
Officers learned that two families had gone out on an overnight guided kayaking tour and were on their way back when they encountered challenging conditions. Realizing the conditions had surpassed their capabilities to safely continue the trip, they made the prudent decision to call for help before the situation worsened.
All 12 individuals were safely rescued and transported back to Orcas Island. No injuries were reported; however, parties were understandably shaken by the ordeal.
– Royal Canadian Mounted Police (August 15, 2025)
Discover more from Whatcom News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
