Police were continuing efforts this week to trace two out of three young men who sparked concern when they failed to return their rental boat last weekend.

As The Royal Gazette first reported on Monday, the trio rented a 15-foot Boston Whaler from Somerset Bridge Water Sports in Sandys around 3.30 p.m. Saturday, but failed to return it by the scheduled time of 6.30 p.m.

Staff from the company reported their concerns to the authorities later that evening, with the Marine Police subsequently mounting a search of the shoreline and Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre issuing broadcasts asking ships to look out for the boat, registration number R153. It was found tied up at Pitts Bay on Sunday, but there was no sign of the occupants.

Both the Police and staff from Somerset Bridge Water Sports appealed for the men to get in touch — saying while there was nothing to suggest a mishap had befallen them, they wished to check on their safety. It was suspected the men dumped the vessel to avoid paying for the $50 gas they had used. According to a Police spokesman a 17-year-old male from Pembroke has been traced in relation to the incident, and found to be safe and well.

"Marine Police are continuing their inquiries to establish the identities and welfare of the two remaining occupants, although there is no reason to believe anything untoward has happened to them. At this stage, no one has been arrested or charged with any offences relating to this matter," he added.

Anyone with information should call the Marine Police on 299-4584.