Update: Body discovered in search for missing kayaker off Waterford coast

The body of the kayaker, a man in his 60s, has been brought to Dungarvan Pier

Rescue helicopter 117 was involved in the search operation. 

A body has been found during a search for a kayaker who had gone missing off the coast of Co Waterford. 

The body of the kayaker, a man in his 60s, was located at approximately 8.30am on Tuesday morning by the Bonmahon Coast Guard unit off Ballyvoyle head. 

The body was recovered from the water by a naval service rib and brought to Dungarvan Pier. 

A garda spokesperson said it will be taken to University Hospital Waterford where an autopsy will take place, and a file will be prepared for the coroner. 

It is understood that the kayaker left Helvick Head near Dungarvan shortly before midday on Monday but failed to return to shore.

The Irish Coast Guard was alerted to the incident at 5.25pm on Monday evening. A search operation was subsequently initiated from the Marine Rescue Coordination Centre in Dublin.

The multi-agency search ceased late on Monday night but resumed at 5am on Tuesday morning.

The naval vessel LÉ Aoibhinn coordinated the search, which also involved rescue helicopter 117.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Irish Coast Guard confirmed the search had concluded. 

"An extensive search was co-ordinated by the marine rescue co-ordination centre, Dublin and by naval vessel LE Aobhinn as on-scene co-ordinator, and supported by Coast Guard Units from Bonmahon, Dunmore East, Tramore, Admore and Youghal. 

"Teams from Dunmore East, Helvick and Youghal RNLI were also tasked," the spokesperson added. 

"Search and rescue conditions were challenging, with low lying mist and winds in the area."

The spokesperson also offered their condolences on behalf of the Irish Coast Guard to the family and friends of the deceased.