By Karen Robes Meeks
U.S Coast Guard responders will re-evaluate plans to remove the grounded 79-foot fishing vessel Pacific Paradise off Waikiki after unsuccessful removal attempts to tow it away from a coral reef Friday.
“Salvage teams attempted various removal procedures on both on the bow and stern and although the vessel had movement during the process, it remains aground,” said Capt. Michael Long, commander, Coast Guard Sector Honolulu and captain of the port. “Our Coast Guard teams will reassess with all our partners this weekend to prepare future removal plans. We understand the sense of urgency to remove this vessel from the reef and are working diligently to ensure this is done as quickly and as safely as possible.”
No marine mammals have been affected and all fuel tanks have been plugged but about 1,500 gallons of diesel is still on board. A safety zone 500 yards around the vessel is still in effect and the public should steer clear.
Coast Guard and Honolulu Fire Department crews rescued Pacific Paradise’s master and 19 fishermen after it ran aground off Diamond Head near Kaimana Beach, the cause of which is still being investigated.
