Ferry hits kayakers on Hudson River

NEW YORK (FOX5NY) - A ferry struck several kayakers in the Hudson River on Tuesday evening, police said.  It happened at about 5:50 p.m. as the ferry was departing Pier 79 on the Upper West Side.

The Coast Guard, NYPD, FDNY, and Jersey City Fire Department rescued 11 kayakers from the water. Authorities said five kayakers were hurt.  Five kayakers were transported to Bellevue Hospital and Mount Sinai Roosevelt Hospital for additional medical attention.  Two were listed in critical condition.

The kayaking instructor's arm was partially severed, officials said.   Most of the others had minor injuries.

NY Waterway, the ferry's operator, said it is cooperating with police and the Coast Guard on the investigation.

The cause of the collision is currently under investigation. Police said the ferry captain, who tested negative for drugs and alcohol, may have been blinded by the setting sun.