An overdue boating party has been found safe and well off the North- East Arnhem coast this morning.

The three men and one child had set out from Ski Beach in Nhulunbuy yesterday and were reported missing at eleven o’clock last night.

Senior Sergeant Brendan Muldoon from Nhulunbuy Police said they had done the right thing by telling family members where they were heading.

“In this instance we could narrow down the search area and they were found early this morning without too much trouble.”

“The Customs vessel CRV McArthur River located the party near Cape Wilberforce, North West of the Gove Peninsular.  The fourteen foot tinny was under tow by another local boat that had come to their aid.”

Senior Sergeant Muldoon said the CRV McArthur River took over the towing of the vessel and they were expected back in town early this afternoon.

“On this occasion the missing party had only minimal safety equipment and it is likely that the skipper of the vessel will be summons to appear before the courts."

"It is a timely reminder to all mariners that safety equipment is there to save lives.  Breaking down at sea has far greater consequences than breaking down on the road."

"Please ensure you have all required safety gear and it is up to date." Senior Sergeant Muldoon added.

It is the third maritime rescue in the Gove area in the last two months.