The Coastguard is appealing for information after the discovery of equipment, possibly used by kayakers, in the Solent prompted a major search on land and sea.
A glove, a trainer, a man over board strobe light and torches have been found between Gosport and Cowes.
A number of kayakers were reported as out fishing last night, say the Coastguard.
Although no-one has been reported as missing a Coastguard helicopter, plus Hillhead Coastguard Rescue Team, and five lifeboats searched the area.
Gosport & Fareham Inshore Rescue Service (GAFIRS) was paged by UK Coastguard at 6.30am to investigate reports of two torches seen in The Solent, south of Gilkicker, spotted by staff on an Isle of Wight car ferry.
GAFIRS coxswain Brian Pack said: “Finding the two torches was a worry. We carried out an extensive search of the area and after an hour were stood down by the Coastguard and returned to base. 
“However, while we were closing down the station a member of the public arrived having found some personal effects and a flashing lifebuoy beacon on the beach just along from our station on Stokes Bay.”
Following this discovery, the Coastguard tasked GAFIRS to carry out a second shoreline search from Gilkicker to Browndown, edging south towards the central Solent. 
Lifeboats from Cowes, Bembridge, Portsmouth and Hamble were also mobilised.
Five Coastguard rescue teams – including Hill Head and Portsmouth – as well as units on the Isle of Wight, assisted with the search on the shore.
 The search has been suspended for the evening.
Members of the public who may have further information about the kayakers who were out fishing overnight or the equipment that has been found are requested to call the UK Coastguard on 023 92 552100.