Coast Guard Intensifies Search for Missing Sailor Noel Rubio
The search operation spans across California, Hawaii, and Mexico as the Coast Guard seeks public assistance to locate Rubio and his vessel, Malulani.
- Noel Rubio, a 60-year-old mariner, embarked on a voyage from Long Beach, California to Kaneohe, Oahu, Hawaii on December 28 but failed to arrive as expected.
- Rubio's last known contact was on the day of his departure, south of Catalina Island, with no further communication since.
- The Malulani, Rubio's 32-foot Westsail sloop, is equipped with only a marine band radio, raising concerns about the adequacy of its communication capabilities.
- The Coast Guard is utilizing all available resources, including urgent marine broadcasts and harbor checks, and has sought advice from experienced trans-Pacific sailors.
- Authorities urge anyone with information about Rubio or the Malulani to contact the Coast Guard immediately.