The 28-metre-long Sunseeker named "Nokoa" ran aground in a marine reserve. The incident occurred in Honolua Bay, which is located near the Hawaiian island of Maui. According to local media reports, it is assumed that the yacht broke free from its mooring. Emergency calls were made at around 6.45 am (local time). According to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DNLR), there were no injuries. No further details about the incident or the owners were released. A salvage operation was initiated immediately. It could take a few days before the Sunseeker is removed from the marine reserve.
The salvage operation of the Sunseeker
The fuel, batteries and other potentially polluting substances were secured by the US Coast Guard, the report continues. Eyewitnesses had reported that fuel had flowed into the water, but a member of the Coast Guard managed to get on board to switch off the pump. This prevented any major pollution.
The first step in the salvage operation, which was initiated today, is to pump out the remaining fuel. The Sunseeker will then be handed over to its owner. According to the DNLR, the owner has commissioned a private company to remove the yacht from the marine reserve. The company is to use a tugboat to tow the yacht out to sea and into a harbour. In the best case scenario, it will be repaired there. Salvage is carried out at high tide, as is generally the case. Any costs incurred must be borne by the owner of the "Nokoa".
Damage to nature
The DLNR's Water Resources Department was commissioned to carry out an initial assessment of the damage to corals and live rock in the marine reserve caused by the grounding. As a result, they found damage to several corals and live rock. However, the crew will have to go out again for a more detailed assessment. The owner will also have to pay for the damage caused and the associated costs. The owner must also expect a heavy fine, as corals in the area are a protected species.
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Leonie Meyer
Editor News & Panorama
