The Environment
A charter yacht has gone aground in a protected bay on Maui, spilling an unknown quantity of fuel and drawing concern from local officials.
On Monday, the 94-foot yacht Nakoa grounded on the north side of Maui’s Honolua Bay, a protected marine sanctuary area. The owner told local media that the yacht’s mooring line parted early Monday morning in a “freak accident,” resulting in the boat drifting ashore.
The yacht released diesel into the water Tuesday when the bilge pumps activated, the owner told the AP. The owner’s initial refloat attempt was not successful, and the U.S. Coast Guard took command of the response. The Coast Guard has selected a professional salvor, Sea Engineering, to remove the vessel and its fuel. The objective is to complete the project by Friday, according to the AP. More here.
