Video: Stranded yacht leaking fuel in Maui nature reserve

A luxury motor yacht which grounded on rocks and reef in Maui on Monday (20 February 2023) has leaked an unknown quantity of fuel into the ocean.

The 94ft charter yacht, Nakoa, is stranded on the north side of the Honolua Bay, a popular surf spot and part of a state-administered marine life conservation district, where fishing and removal of marine life are prohibited. It’s home to large coral outcroppings, and is a popular diving destination. 

The owner has apologised for the ‘freak accident’, telling Hawaii News Now that he was anchored offshore with this family when the mooring line broke.

The owners initial attempts to refloat the vessel were unsuccessful, and the US Coast Guard is now in command of the response and will be using a private contractor to begin defuelling the vessel prior to working with Department of Land and Natural Resources (DNLR) and Maui Police Department to remove the vessel.

The Save Honolua Coalition is giving regular updates on the situation on its Instagram and Facebook pages.