MIAMI BEACH, FLA. – A search is underway for a boater who has been missing for hours near Miami Beach.

Reynier Marino, 36, was reported missing late Tuesday night after his boat was found along the Julia Tuttle Causeway, between Miami and Miami Beach, a few hours after taking it into the water.

Loved ones have identified Marino as an experienced and avid boater.

They said Marino left from Pelican Harbor Marina at around 7 p.m. to test out a boat.

He had just sold the boat and the new boat owner was waiting for him at the marina.

After some time went by, the new boat owner started calling others when Marino did not return.

That’s when two of Marino’s friends went out to look for him and found the boat with damage to its front.

They then called authorities which prompted the search.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials towed the boat back to the marina and have been searching for Marino since.

7SkyForce hovered over the scene where several agencies could be seen conducting the search.