Wreck removal efforts of the Pacific Paradise continue, following the fishing vessel’s grounding off Kaimana Beach, Honolulu, according to US Coast Guard, and the unified command has contracted Resolve Marine Group, with support from several other experts, to conduct the removal of the pollution threat.
“This response is a dynamic and constantly evolving process with many factors to consider and it will take some time to complete. Modifications to the pollution removal plan and changes in timelines are possible, but we are committed to resolving this situation,” said Captain of the Port Capt. Michael Long, commander, Coast Guard Sector Honolulu.
After the 79-foot vessel grounded off Waikiki on 10 October, USCG and Honolulu Fire Department rescued the master and 19 fishermen. The vessel has since then remained grounded despite several initial attempts to tow it from the reef located off Waikiki’s Kaimana Beach during favorable tides.
Resolve Marine Group, American Marine, Global Diving and Salvage, Pacific Environmental Corporation and the US Coast Guard Marine Safety Center are all providing expertise.
During planning and mobilization efforts on Thursday, they also replaced sorbent boom aboard the vessel collecting oily water and fuel leeching from the engine room. This type of boom has been in place since the grounding and is replaced as needed. The team also secured the danger signs that have been applied to the hull.
The pollution threat removal effort has been divided into several phases that will, in their entirety, take several weeks to complete. As soon as the vessel is removed from the reef, the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Aquatic Resources will put expert teams into the water to assess damages to the coral reef and determine appropriate steps for restoration and mitigation, USCG also informed.
