The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has scuttled over forty abandoned ships since 2014. Joweli Cawaki, the CEO of MSAF, explained that scuttling involves sinking derelict vessels or shipwrecks. This process typically takes place about 20 miles south of Suva in waters deeper than 1,000 meters.
Cawaki noted the high costs associated with recovering these vessels, prompting the use of scuttling as a more viable alternative. Vessel owners must contact MSAF, either in person or in writing, to arrange for their ships to be scuttled if they are no longer in use.
The scuttling process involves the use of machinery to drill holes in the sides of the vessel, allowing it to sink. Recently, MSAF completed the scuttling of the MV Uluinabukelevu from Kadavu. The flat rate for scuttling a vessel is approximately $189, although owners are responsible for arranging the towing of their ship.
Before a vessel can be scuttled, it must be cleaned to remove any oil or waste, requiring consent from the owner. The standard operating procedure for scuttling includes fees for a special survey, scuttling Tow Master Plan, and tow arrangements, ultimately totaling approximately $189.75.
The procedure involves shipowners submitting a request for scuttling to MSAF, paying the requisite fees, and following a checklist for removal of hazardous substances. A pollution officer from MSAF will then conduct final checks to ensure the vessel is ready for scuttling.
Once approved, the scuttling coordinates and depth must be shared with Fiji Ports. Shipowners also have the option to use a tugboat or another vessel for the towing process, provided their ship has passed a special survey and the necessary towing fees are paid. Additionally, Cawaki mentioned that some shipowners are choosing to submit their older vessels for scrap metal instead of scuttling them.