The Coast Guard launched a boat from Maui and a helicopter from Barbers Point yesterday morning to rescue three people who reported that their boat was on fire about eight miles southwest of Maui.

Coast Guard Petty Officer Michael De Nyse said those aboard the 40-foot Catch and Karey activated an emergency position-indicating radio beacon after the fire broke out.

De Nyse said Coast Guard rescue workers were able to contact those aboard the burning boat via cell phone.

"They told us all three are wearing life jackets and had a life raft ready to deploy if need be," De Nyse said. "They were equipped with the right kinds of equipment."

Coast Guard rescue workers extinguished the fire and towed the boat to Ma'alaea Harbor on Maui.