Shipowners in need of scuttling services or disposal options for their old, unused, or derelict vessels can now seek assistance from the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF). Scuttling refers to the responsible and secure disposal of abandoned or deteriorated ships.
As abandoned vessels become a significant issue in Fiji’s waters, MSAF’s Chief Executive Officer, Joweli Cawaki, expressed hope that these scuttling services will address the growing problem. “This service is available to vessel owners who wish to dispose of their unsafe old vessels,” Mr. Cawaki stated.
He urged shipowners to submit a request letter for scuttling services and to cover the associated costs. Recently, MSAF pollution officers facilitated the scuttling of a local vessel, MV Uluinabukelevu, which was sunk 20 miles (32 kilometers) south of Suva. Prior to sinking, the vessel underwent inspection and cleaning, including the removal of oil and other debris.
Shipowners must notify MSAF after completing the cleaning of their vessels. Following the submission of the scuttling request and payment of fees, MSAF will provide a checklist for the removal of hazardous materials. A pollution officer will conduct a final inspection of the vessel to confirm its readiness for scuttling, and an inspection report will be sent to the Marine Safety Compliance Registry (MSCR).
Approval for scuttling will be issued along with specific coordinates and depth information, which the shipowner is required to pass on to Fiji Ports. The use of a tugboat or another vessel for towing the scuttled ship is optional for shipowners.
After scuttling, MSAF’s pollution officer will accompany the vessel to ensure it is sunk at the designated coordinates and will provide a final report confirming the completion of the scuttling process.