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Comprehensive Wreck Removal & Reef Protection Services
A professional, cost-effective solution for safely removing 17 derelict vessels from Suva Harbour's reefs whilst protecting the marine environment and building local capacity.

by Jon Lalabalavu

Executive Summary
Our solution offers a comprehensive approach to the removal of 17 derelict wrecks currently degrading the sensitive reef ecosystems and creating navigational hazards in Suva Harbour. Unlike conventional solutions that rely on expensive overseas jack-up barges, our innovative methodology leverages locally available resources and expertise to deliver exceptional results within existing budget constraints.
Environmental Protection
Our approach prioritises coral habitat preservation and water quality monitoring with best-practice environmental controls throughout all operations.
Navigational Safety
By removing these vessels, we'll restore safe navigation channels and improve port efficiency, enhancing Suva's maritime infrastructure.
Sustainable Approach
We maximise scrap recovery through circular-economy principles, offsetting costs whilst building enduring indigenous salvage and marine-construction capability.
Our competitive advantage lies in our transparent cost model and innovative local asset strategy that eliminates the need for expensive overseas equipment. By utilising locally chartered floating cranes, barges, and tug capacity, we deliver a solution that fits within current funding realities whilst maximising value and minimising environmental impact.
Scope of Work
Comprehensive Coverage
Our comprehensive scope encompasses all in-situ wreck components including hulls, superstructures, machinery and gear, associated debris fields extending to 50 metres from each primary site, and seabed contamination hot-spots such as oil sheens, battery deposits and paint flakes.
The scope also includes crucial pre- and post-clearance hydrographic and ROV surveys, coral rescue and relocation operations where required, and ongoing water quality monitoring throughout the project lifecycle.
Key Deliverables
  • Site-specific Method Statements (MS) and Job Hazard Analyses (JHA) for each wreck
  • Environmental Impact Assessment implementation with turbidity and spill logs
  • Complete waste manifests and detailed reef-impact reports
  • Comprehensive as-removed surveys with volume/tonnage reconciliation
  • Transparent scrap/materials ledger documenting all recoverable materials
  • Final clearance certificates with georeferenced maps and before/after imagery
Our teams employ advanced techniques to safely remove wreck components whilst protecting surrounding coral habitats.

Exclusions: Unless specifically directed, our scope excludes hazardous cargo remediation beyond ship residues (to be treated under a separate hazardous-materials scope if encountered) and third-party berth repairs. Channel dredging beyond localised bed re-profiling is also excluded.
Local Asset Strategy: No Overseas Jack-Up Barge
Our innovative approach eliminates the need for expensive overseas jack-up barges, focusing instead on locally available resources to deliver exceptional value whilst building indigenous capabilities.
Strategic Rationale
Our local asset strategy represents a paradigm shift in marine salvage operations for Fiji, offering significant advantages over traditional approaches:
  • Enhanced Safety & Accessibility: We utilise locally chartered floating cranes (50-150 tonne class) on deck barges for sectional lifting, supplemented with lift-bag augmentation for oversized modules. This approach eliminates the damaging spud leg footprint on sensitive reef ecosystems.
  • Substantial Cost Efficiency: By eliminating international jack-up barge day-rates and mobilisation costs, our approach aligns with currently secured funds and enables phased delivery.
  • Local Capability Development: Our strategy keeps expenditure within Fiji by working with Fiji Ports/FSHIL yards, South Sea Towage tugs, and local barge providers, strengthening national capacity for marine operations.
Reef-Safe Station-Keeping Model
Our innovative approach employs pre-surveyed 3-point moorings with anchors placed exclusively on sand/rubble pockets. We utilise temporary deadweight blocks where required and implement strict no-anchoring protocols for live coral areas. For shallow-water staging where depth and sea state permit, we transfer pre-cut sections to mobile cranes ashore (on pre-approved pads) to reduce on-water lift risk.
Heavy-Lift Concept of Operations
Our methodical approach to heavy lifting involves sectionalising wreck components to manageable ≤25-40 tonne modules for retrieval by floating crane. Heavier components are reduced in situ and/or brought to neutral-buoyancy with lift bags prior to picking. Modules are then rafted or towed to Walu Bay or other approved yards for deconstruction and recycling under strict waste controls.
Multi-Mission Utility (Post-Project)
The same barges and cranes employed in our operations can subsequently support marine construction, sea-defence works, and post-cyclone repairs via local contracting pools—without tying Fiji to a foreign jack-up barge lease, creating lasting value beyond project completion.
Technical Methodology
Decision Tree Approach for Each Wreck
Stability & Hazard Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation of structural integrity, potential pollutants, and safety hazards.
Defuel & Decontamination
Safe removal of remaining fuels, oils, and hazardous materials to prevent environmental contamination.
Removal Method Selection
Based on assessment, select optimal approach: Refloat & Tow, Sectional Lift, or In-situ Disassembly.
Seabed Cleanup
Thorough removal of debris field and remediation of contaminated substrate.
Verification Survey
Final inspection and documentation to confirm complete removal and environmental compliance.
Survey & Planning
Our comprehensive approach begins with detailed site characterisation using multibeam/side-scan sonar (where available), ROV visual inspections, diver surveys, and non-destructive testing. Critical to our methodology is a thorough coral and marine biota reconnaissance, where we tag and relocate sensitive colonies where feasible.
Based on this information, we establish wreck-specific lift points and develop cutting plans utilising appropriate techniques including oxy-arc, exothermic rods, diamond-wire, and hydraulic shears based on material characteristics and environmental considerations.
Environmental Controls
Environmental protection is integral to our operations, implemented through:
  • Containment Systems: Deployment of silt curtains, absorbent booms, sacrificial catch-tarps under cut zones, and hot-work fire blankets to prevent contamination.
  • Water Quality Monitoring: Continuous turbidity and hydrocarbon monitoring against predetermined trigger levels, with adaptive work halts when thresholds are approached.
  • Coral Protection: Diver-led micro-relocation, rubble stabilisation, and post-works re-attachment protocols.
  • Fauna Safeguards: Implementation of soft-start cutting procedures, marine mammal observation watches, and scheduled avoidance of known spawning periods.
Diving & Marine Operations
Professional Diving Operations
Our operations employ surface-supplied diving systems with comprehensive safety protocols including standby divers and dedicated rescue plans. All dive operations follow IMCA/ADCI international standards with thorough pre-dive briefings and post-dive debriefs.
Precise mooring plans are developed for each site to avoid reef damage, with emphasis on environmental protection throughout all underwater activities.
Lifting & Transport
Our technical approach incorporates lift-bag use for small to medium sections, locally chartered floating cranes for heavier modules, and controlled towage to approved laydown and scrap sites.
Night operations are strictly limited to protection and security functions—not for hot-work activities, unless specifically authorised under exceptional circumstances with additional safety measures.
Waste Management
Our comprehensive waste management strategy includes:
  • Segregation of ferrous, non-ferrous metals, plastics, oils, batteries, and hazardous materials
  • Transport of recyclables to licensed yards and wastes to permitted facilities with complete documentation
  • Thorough cleaning of hull sections to prevent invasive biofouling transfer
  • Preparation of export documentation if required for specialist materials

Safety Focus: All diving and marine operations adhere to our strict safety protocols, with daily toolbox talks, comprehensive risk assessments, and continuous monitoring to ensure personnel safety and environmental protection.
GIS-Driven Maritime Workflow
Our operations are guided by a sophisticated GIS-driven maritime workflow that provides real-time operational intelligence and decision support. This innovative approach transforms complex marine salvage operations into a data-driven, precision-focused activity.
Hydrographic & Bathymetric Data Collection
Gathering multibeam, side-scan, legacy charts, and ROV/dive logs to create comprehensive baseline.
Coastal & Marine Data Processing
Integration of tidal models, currents, visibility factors, and standardisation of raster/vector data.
Maritime Spatial Analysis
Mapping wreck positions, reef polygons, channels, marine protected areas, aids to navigation, and exclusion zones.
Risk & Opportunity Assessment
Analysis of storm surge potential, silt transport patterns, coral sensitivity, access lanes, and optimal lift windows.
Strategic Decision-Making
Method selection between refloat vs sectional lift, resource allocation, and planning of mooring footprints & crane pick paths.
Implementation & Monitoring
Deployment of live progress mapping, turbidity sensors, and creation of after-action layers & archival documentation.
Technology Platform
Our GIS platform utilises ArcGIS Pro with field applications for diver check-ins, hazard tagging, and photo-logging. Daily map products are provided to the Client, ensuring complete transparency and situational awareness throughout operations.
Prioritisation & Programme Phasing
Wreck Prioritisation Matrix
Our systematic approach to wreck removal employs a comprehensive prioritisation matrix that considers multiple factors to determine the optimal sequence of operations:
Category Phasing
1
Category A (Critical): 5 vessels
These vessels represent immediate navigational and environmental hazards and will be addressed within Days 1-30 of the project commencement.
2
Category B (Significant): 8 vessels
These vessels present significant but not immediate threats and will be addressed within Days 31-60, optimising for capacity and operational constraints.
3
Category C (Legacy): 4 vessels
These vessels represent visual or low-risk legacy issues and will be addressed within Days 61-90, completing the full scope of work.
Weather Considerations
Our operational planning accounts for seasonal weather patterns, scheduling heavy lifts and precision coral work within favourable sea states outside peak cyclone months. We maintain comprehensive cyclone readiness protocols year-round to ensure both environmental protection and operational safety.
Health, Safety & Environmental Management
HSE Standards & Systems
Our operations are governed by a robust Safety Management System (SMS) and Diving Safety Management System (DSMS) that align with international best practices. We implement IMCA/ADCI-aligned commercial diving procedures and a comprehensive Permit-to-Work system for high-risk activities such as hot-work and confined space entry.
Risk Controls
Risk mitigation is embedded throughout our operations via:
  • Formal Job Hazard Analyses for all tasks
  • Lock-Out/Tag-Out procedures on all energised systems
  • Double-isolation protocols for fuel lines
  • Strict exclusion zones under suspended loads
  • Mandatory 100% lifejacket use on all decks
Emergency Preparedness
Our comprehensive emergency response framework includes:
  • Dedicated rescue diver standby for all diving operations
  • On-water first response kit including oxygen and defibrillator
  • Tier-1 spill response equipment readily accessible
  • Detailed Medical Evacuation plan with nearest medical facilities
  • Cyclone contingency planning with rapid secure-and-evacuate protocols
Quality Assurance
Quality is ensured through Inspection and Test Plans for each wreck, comprehensive weld/cut logs, lift plans signed by Competent Persons, and daily client sign-off procedures to maintain transparency and accountability.
Environmental Management Plan
Regulatory Compliance
Full adherence to environmental approvals, turbidity thresholds, waste permits, and reporting requirements throughout all operations.
Sensitive-habitat Protocols
Implementation of coral relocation SOPs, eelgrass/sea-cucumber protection measures, strict no-anchor zones, and prop-wash management procedures.
Monitoring Programme
Comprehensive baseline and post-works water quality monitoring, photographic transects, and incident/near-miss environmental reporting systems.
Rehabilitation Measures
Rubble stabilisation, deployment of eco-reef pins for coral re-attachment, and optional coral gardening partnership with local NGOs.
Stakeholder & Permitting Plan
Key Authorities
Our stakeholder engagement begins with the lead regulatory and oversight bodies:
  • Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF)
  • Ministry of Environment
  • Fiji Ports Corporation Limited (FPCL)
  • Fiji Navy/Harbour Master
Community Engagement
Recognising the cultural and economic importance of marine resources in Fiji, we conduct thorough pre-start briefings with:
  • Fisheries and iTaukei representatives (qoliqoli rights)
  • Port users and commercial maritime operators
  • Tug operators and marine service providers
  • Tourism operators and marina facilities
Cultural Heritage Protection
Our operations incorporate clear chance-find protocols developed in conjunction with the Museums Department and local elders to ensure proper handling of any artifacts or items of cultural significance discovered during wreck removal activities.
Communication Strategy
Transparent and proactive communication is maintained through:
  • Regular stakeholder briefings and updates
  • Dedicated community liaison officer
  • 24/7 hotline for concerns or queries
  • Public information sessions at key project milestones
  • Media engagement to highlight environmental benefits

All operations will be conducted with full respect for Fijian cultural protocols and traditional marine resource management practices, recognising the vital importance of these waters to local communities.
Assets & Team Structure
Company-Owned Assets
Our operations are supported by a comprehensive suite of company-owned equipment including:
  • Commercial dive spreads with surface-supplied air, communications systems, and diving helmets
  • Launch and Recovery Systems (LARS) for safe diver deployment
  • Inspection-class ROVs for underwater survey and monitoring
  • Comprehensive hydraulic tool packages for underwater operations
  • Workboats and Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIBs) for crew transport
  • Anchor-handling gear, portable winches, and A-frames
  • Lift-bags in various capacities for underwater lifting
  • Diverse cutting systems (oxy-arc, exothermic, diamond-wire)
  • Environmental protection equipment including silt curtains, booms, skimmers, and turbidity meters
Locally Chartered Assets
In alignment with our local asset strategy, we will charter:
  • Floating crane (50-150 tonne class) for heavy lifting operations
  • Deck barges for transport and work platforms
  • Tug services for station-keeping and towing operations
  • Mobile cranes at port facilities for shore-based handling
  • Temporary deadweight anchors/moorings for reef-safe positioning
Project Organisation
Our project is structured with clear lines of authority and responsibility:
  • Project Director → Overall project accountability and client liaison
  • Salvage Master → Technical operations and method implementation
  • Dive Supervisor(s) → Safe and efficient underwater operations
  • Rigging & Cutting Leads → Specialised technical work execution
  • Environmental Officer → Compliance and protection measures
  • HSE Officer → Safety protocols and incident prevention
  • GIS Lead → Spatial data management and visualisation
  • Logistics/Stores → Equipment and material management
  • Admin/Finance → Project administration and cost control
We also embed a Government Liaison/Harbour Master Representative within our team to ensure seamless coordination with authorities.
Logistics, Scrapping & Disposal
Laydown & Scrap Yard Operations
Our logistical approach utilises licensed facilities in the Suva/Walu Bay area, including Fiji Ships and Heavy Industries Limited (FSHIL) yards and other approved facilities for cutting and recycling operations. We establish pre-agreed berths and slipways for handling heavy modules, ensuring efficient processing without facility overload.
Transport Protocols
Material transport from removal sites to processing facilities is accomplished through controlled towing or barge shuttle operations with appropriate escorts. All movements follow stringent documentation control procedures for hazardous residues, ensuring regulatory compliance and environmental protection.
Revenue Recovery System
Our project incorporates a transparent ledger system for tracking recyclable tonnage recovered from wreck sites. Revenue generated from recyclable materials is returned to the Client according to contractual arrangements, offsetting project costs and improving overall value.

Circular Economy Focus: Our salvage operations prioritise the principles of the circular economy, ensuring maximum recovery of valuable materials while minimising waste. This approach not only provides cost offsets but also aligns with global sustainability objectives.
Material Segregation
All recovered materials undergo careful segregation to maximise recycling potential:
  • Ferrous metals (hull plates, structural elements)
  • Non-ferrous metals (brass, copper, aluminium)
  • Machinery components (engines, pumps, generators)
  • Electronics and wiring
  • Hazardous materials (for specialist processing)
Commercials & Contracting Approach
Pricing Structure
Our commercial framework is designed to provide both value and transparency:
Phase-based Lump Sums
We provide clear phase-based lump sums per wreck class:
  • Small vessels (<20 metres)
  • Medium vessels (20-40 metres)
  • Large vessels (>40 metres)
Each lump sum covers comprehensive survey, removal, and disposal operations for the respective vessel category.
Day-rate Contingencies
To address unforeseen circumstances, we offer a day-rate menu for specific contingencies:
  • Weather standby operations
  • Additional cutting requirements
  • Unforeseen hazard management
All contingency rates include predetermined caps and require Client pre-approval, ensuring budget control.
Revenue Offsets
Our approach includes transparent mechanisms for cost reduction:
  • Scrap metal revenue sharing model
  • Local asset utilisation eliminating overseas equipment costs
  • Phased implementation allowing for funding alignment
Funding Alignment
Recognising budget constraints, our proposal is structured to align with current funding realities. With current public/partner allocations totalling approximately USD ~$2 million equivalent, we propose implementing Phase 1 (Category A vessels) within this envelope, with optional expansion into Categories B/C as additional funds are confirmed.
Performance Incentives
Safety & Environmental KPIs
We commit to zero recordable incidents, zero spills, and full turbidity compliance, with a small percentage performance bonus tied to achieving these critical objectives.
Schedule Adherence
Our contract includes milestone payments for early completion per phase without compromising HSE/EMP standards, incentivising efficient but responsible execution.
Risk Allocation
Our contract clearly delineates risk responsibilities, with our company assuming operational risks within defined scope, while the Government provides permits support and access to port/yard facilities. Force majeure and cyclone clauses are included, along with a clear variation/change-order process to address emerging requirements.
Project Schedule
Mobilisation & Permits
Following contract award, we implement a streamlined mobilisation process:
  • Mobilisation and permits processing: ~4-6 weeks from award
  • Asset chartering: finalisation of floating crane/barge arrangements and tug services
  • Mooring equipment staging and environmental protection system deployment
Operational Windows
Our schedule strategically prioritises heavy lifts and precision reef work during calmer seasonal weather conditions, while maintaining appropriate cyclone preparedness protocols throughout the project. This approach maximises productivity while ensuring safety and environmental protection.
Execution Timeline
The field execution is programmed across phases to mitigate weather risks and accommodate port traffic considerations. We deploy parallel teams when safe to do so, optimising schedule efficiency while maintaining strict safety protocols.
A detailed Gantt chart will be provided upon award following final site verification, providing comprehensive visibility into all project activities and milestones.

Weather Contingency: While our schedule incorporates realistic weather allowances based on historical data, extreme weather events may necessitate temporary work stoppages. Our planning includes provisions for rapid securing of sites and equipment to protect both the environment and assets.
Risk Register & Mitigation Strategies
Our comprehensive risk management approach identifies potential challenges and implements robust mitigation measures to ensure project success.
Risk Management Process
Our risk management follows a continuous cycle of identification, assessment, mitigation, and review:
Identify
Systematic identification of potential risks through expert assessment and stakeholder input
Assess
Evaluation of likelihood and consequence to prioritise response measures
Mitigate
Implementation of specific controls to eliminate or reduce each risk
Monitor
Continuous tracking of effectiveness and adjustment of controls as needed
Review
Regular reassessment of risk profile as project conditions evolve
Insurance & Compliance Framework
Comprehensive Insurance Coverage
Our operations are backed by robust insurance protection including:
  • Protection & Indemnity (P&I) insurance
  • Third-party liability coverage
  • Employers' liability and workers' compensation
  • Professional indemnity insurance
  • Specific wreck removal liability coverage
  • Environmental impairment liability
  • Hull and machinery coverage for vessels
Regulatory Compliance
Our operations maintain full compliance with:
  • Fijian maritime regulations and standards
  • Environmental protection legislation and permits
  • Port and harbour operational requirements
  • International Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations where applicable
  • International Safety Management (ISM) interfaces for relevant vessels
  • Labour safety regulations and employment standards
  • Waste management and transport regulations
Documentation & Reporting
Our compliance framework includes comprehensive documentation:
  • Daily operation logs and safety records
  • Environmental monitoring reports
  • Incident investigation and corrective action records
  • Waste transport manifests and disposal certificates
  • Personnel qualification and training records
  • Equipment certification and inspection documentation
  • Permit compliance verification reports

Our insurance programme has been specifically tailored to marine salvage operations in sensitive environments, providing comprehensive protection for all stakeholders while ensuring operational flexibility.
Third-Party Verification
To ensure complete transparency and compliance, our operations incorporate regular third-party verification including:
  • Independent environmental monitoring
  • Safety audits by qualified external consultants
  • Insurance surveyor inspections of high-risk operations
  • Regulatory authority site visits and inspections
National Capability Legacy
Building Enduring Capabilities
Beyond the immediate environmental and navigational benefits, our project creates lasting value for Fiji through:
Training & Certification
Development of a cadre of Fijian marine operators, riggers, and commercial divers through structured training programmes and mentorship. Creation and maintenance of a national asset and competency register to support future operations.
Expanded Mission Capabilities
Enhancement of national capacity for flood response operations (pumping and temporary bridges), coastal defence works (reef and seawall construction), cyclone damage repair (jetties, Aids to Navigation), and marine construction (piles, dolphins).
Knowledge Repository
Development of a centralised GIS database of wrecks, hazards, permits, and environmental baselines, creating templates and procedures for future salvage operations and disaster response deployments.
Economic Benefits
Our approach creates sustainable economic advantages for Fiji:
  • Development of transferable skills in the local workforce
  • Retention of project expenditure within the Fijian economy
  • Creation of new service capabilities for regional export
  • Enhanced port efficiency and reduced shipping insurance premiums
  • Improved tourism potential through reef restoration
Environmental Management Plan
Comprehensive Environmental Protection
Our Environmental Management Plan (EMP) provides a robust framework for safeguarding Suva Harbour's sensitive marine ecosystems throughout all wreck removal operations. This plan addresses all potential impacts while implementing best practices for ecological protection.
Key Environmental Considerations
Our approach addresses several critical environmental aspects:
  • Coral Reef Protection: Implementation of no-anchor zones, careful mooring placement, and silt curtains to prevent physical damage and sedimentation impacts on sensitive coral communities.
  • Water Quality Management: Continuous monitoring of turbidity and potential contaminants with trigger levels for work modification or cessation.
  • Marine Fauna Safeguards: Marine mammal observation protocols, soft-start procedures for noisy operations, and scheduling around sensitive breeding periods.
  • Hazardous Materials Control: Comprehensive identification, containment, and proper disposal of all potentially harmful substances encountered during operations.
Monitoring Programme
Our environmental monitoring includes:
  • Pre-operation baseline establishment for water quality parameters
  • Continuous turbidity monitoring at strategic locations
  • Regular underwater visual assessments of coral health
  • Documentation of marine life observations and responses
  • Post-operation recovery monitoring
Rehabilitation Measures
Where impacts cannot be completely avoided, we implement proven rehabilitation approaches including rubble stabilisation, deployment of eco-reef pins for coral re-attachment, and partnership opportunities with local NGOs for coral gardening initiatives.

Environmental Compliance Commitment: Our operations strictly adhere to all requirements established by the Ministry of Environment and international best practices for marine operations in sensitive reef environments, ensuring protection of Fiji's invaluable marine resources.
Technical Methodology: Dive Operations
Diving Safety Systems
Our diving operations incorporate comprehensive safety systems including:
  • Surface-supplied diving equipment with voice communications
  • Dedicated standby diver always ready to respond
  • Dive supervisor monitoring all operations
  • Emergency gas supply and recovery equipment
  • Decompression protocols and monitoring
Underwater Work Methodologies
Our technical divers employ specialised approaches for different aspects of wreck removal:
Survey & Assessment
Initial diving operations focus on detailed assessment of wreck condition, identifying structural hazards, potential contaminants, and optimal cutting locations. This phase includes documentation through underwater photography and videography to support detailed planning.
Contamination Control
Specialised diving techniques are employed for sealing potential sources of contamination including fuel tanks, hydraulic systems, and other fluid reservoirs. This includes installation of cofferdams, pumping systems, and containment devices.
Cutting Operations
Our divers are trained in multiple underwater cutting techniques including:
  • Oxy-arc cutting: Using specialised underwater cutting rods for steel sections
  • Exothermic cutting: For situations requiring higher heat and penetration
  • Diamond wire cutting: For precision cutting of complex structures
  • Hydraulic shears: For safer cold-cutting of appropriate materials
Rigging & Lifting
Underwater rigging operations follow engineered lift plans with careful consideration of load distribution, structural integrity, and diver safety. All lifting operations incorporate redundant safety systems and exclusion zones.
Detailed Wreck Removal Methodologies
Site-Specific Approaches
Each wreck presents unique challenges requiring tailored removal strategies. Our methodology encompasses three primary approaches, selected based on comprehensive site assessment:
Refloat & Tow
For vessels with sufficient structural integrity and appropriate conditions, we implement controlled refloating operations followed by towing to approved disposal facilities. This approach includes:
  • Hull integrity assessment and temporary repairs
  • Dewatering using specialised pumps and patching
  • Controlled buoyancy management
  • Engineered towing arrangements with escort vessels
Sectional Lift
For vessels requiring disassembly, we employ sectional lifting techniques using floating cranes and support equipment:
  • Engineering analysis to determine optimal cut lines
  • Underwater cutting operations following approved plans
  • Rigging of sections for balanced lifting
  • Controlled crane operations with environmental safeguards
  • Transport of sections to processing facilities
In-situ Disassembly
For vessels in highly sensitive locations or with complex access challenges:
  • Piece-by-piece removal using primarily hand tools
  • Small component lifting using lift bags and rigging
  • Progressive reduction in size with minimal disturbance
  • Comprehensive debris collection protocols
Decision Matrix for Method Selection
Our method selection process evaluates multiple factors including vessel condition, environmental sensitivity, accessibility, weather exposure, and available resources to determine the optimal approach for each wreck. This structured decision-making process ensures efficient operations while minimising environmental impacts.
Case Studies: Similar Successful Projects
South Pacific Cargo Vessel Removal
Our team successfully removed a 45-metre cargo vessel grounded on a sensitive reef system near a marine protected area. Key achievements included:
  • Zero reportable environmental incidents throughout operations
  • Recovery of 85% of materials for recycling
  • Completion 12 days ahead of schedule
  • Innovative use of lift bags to reduce crane requirements
  • Employment and training of 15 local personnel
Multi-Vessel Clearance Programme
We led a comprehensive wreck removal programme involving 12 smaller vessels (8-25 metres) distributed across a wide geographic area with varying environmental sensitivities. This project demonstrated:
  • Effective prioritisation methodology based on risk assessment
  • Adaptive techniques tailored to each vessel's unique characteristics
  • Successful collaboration with five different community stakeholder groups
  • Integration of traditional ecological knowledge into planning
  • Development of permanent local marine response capability
Lessons Applied to Suva Harbour Project
These experiences inform our approach to the Suva Harbour wreck removal project through:
Enhanced Environmental Controls
Refinement of silt curtain deployment techniques and turbidity monitoring based on previous project outcomes in similar coral reef environments.
Optimised Cutting Sequences
Application of proven sectioning approaches that minimise structural instability during progressive removal, enhancing both safety and environmental protection.
Improved Stakeholder Engagement
Implementation of successful community liaison strategies developed during previous projects in culturally sensitive Pacific Island locations.
Refined Logistics Management
Application of materials handling and processing workflows that maximise recycling potential while minimising transportation impacts.
Team Expertise & Experience
Our project is delivered by a team of specialists with extensive experience in marine salvage, environmental protection, and complex offshore operations in sensitive environments.
Salvage Master
25+ years of experience in marine salvage operations including numerous complex wreck removals in coral reef environments. Certified in advanced commercial diving, naval architecture principles, and marine environmental protection. Led 30+ successful wreck removal projects across the Asia-Pacific region.
Environmental Protection Specialist
Marine biologist with 15+ years focused on coral reef ecosystems and rehabilitation. Experience implementing environmental monitoring programmes for major marine construction and salvage operations throughout the Pacific. Published researcher on coral reef response to anthropogenic disturbance and recovery techniques.
Senior Diving Supervisor
IMCA-certified diving supervisor with 20+ years of commercial diving experience. Specialist in underwater cutting techniques and confined space operations. Extensive experience in tropical environments and reef systems. Trained in hyperbaric medicine and dive emergency management.
Marine Operations Manager
Former naval officer with 18+ years of experience in marine operations. Specialist in vessel stability, heavy lift planning, and float-on/float-off operations. Certified marine surveyor with particular expertise in damage assessment and temporary repairs.
Local Workforce Development
Our team includes dedicated trainers who will work alongside local personnel to develop indigenous capabilities in marine operations, commercial diving, and environmental monitoring. This structured knowledge transfer ensures lasting benefits beyond project completion.

Our team members have collectively participated in the successful removal of over 100 wrecks worldwide, including numerous projects in environmentally sensitive coral reef environments throughout the Pacific region.
Equipment & Technology
Specialised Marine Equipment
Our operations utilise advanced equipment specifically selected for effectiveness in sensitive marine environments:
Underwater Cutting Systems
  • Broco® underwater cutting rods and systems
  • Exothermic cutting equipment for specialised applications
  • Hydraulic diamond wire cutting systems for precision work
  • Hydraulic shears for cold-cutting applications
Lifting & Rigging
  • Lift bags in various capacities (1-50 tonnes)
  • Synthetic slings and rigging for underwater applications
  • Load monitoring systems for safe lifting operations
  • Remote release mechanisms for diver safety
Environmental Protection Technology
Our commitment to environmental protection is supported by advanced technologies:
Monitoring Systems
  • Real-time turbidity monitoring with telemetry
  • Underwater water quality sensors
  • ROV systems for non-intrusive inspection
  • GIS mapping and tracking systems
Containment Equipment
  • Custom-designed silt curtains for reef environments
  • Oil containment booms and recovery systems
  • Debris containment nets and systems
  • Specialised catch tarps for underwater cutting operations
Communications & Safety Systems
Effective communications and safety systems are critical to our operations:
  • Surface-supplied diving communications with recording capabilities
  • Wireless team communications for coordination
  • Emergency location beacons and personal locator devices
  • Remote monitoring systems for diver vital signs
  • Dedicated emergency response equipment including hyperbaric stretcher
Quality Assurance & Verification
Comprehensive Quality Management System
Our operations are governed by a robust Quality Management System (QMS) that ensures consistent delivery of high standards throughout all project phases. This system incorporates:
Inspection & Test Plans
Detailed ITPs developed for each wreck and critical operation, identifying hold points, verification requirements, and acceptance criteria.
Independent Verification
Third-party verification of critical activities including lift plan engineering, environmental monitoring, and final clearance certification.
Documentation & Recording
Comprehensive documentation including before/after imagery, daily operation logs, cutting records, and material tracking from removal through to final disposal.
Certification & Standards
Adherence to international standards including ISO 9001, IMCA diving codes, and industry best practices for marine salvage and environmental protection.
Verification Methodology
Our verification process ensures that all objectives are fully achieved:
Pre-Removal Verification
  • Baseline surveys documenting initial conditions
  • Confirmation of permit requirements and stakeholder expectations
  • Review and approval of method statements and risk assessments
  • Equipment certification and personnel qualification verification
During Operations
  • Daily progress reporting and client briefings
  • Environmental monitoring against established thresholds
  • Technical compliance verification for each critical activity
  • Regular stakeholder updates and site inspections
Post-Removal Verification
  • Final seabed surveys using multibeam sonar and ROV/diver inspection
  • Material reconciliation confirming appropriate disposal/recycling
  • Environmental compliance verification through water quality testing
  • Photographic documentation of restored sites
  • Formal clearance certification with regulatory approval
Final verification includes comprehensive underwater inspection to confirm complete removal and environmental compliance.
Next Steps & Implementation Pathway
We are prepared to commence this important project immediately upon approval, following a structured implementation pathway designed to ensure efficiency, compliance, and maximum value.
1
Initial Engagement
Upon selection, we will immediately schedule a comprehensive project initiation meeting with all key stakeholders to refine requirements, confirm priorities, and establish communication protocols.
2
Detailed Planning & Approvals
We will finalise site-specific method statements, secure necessary permits and approvals, and charter required local assets while establishing baseline environmental conditions.
3
Mobilisation & Training
Equipment mobilisation will proceed alongside initial training for local personnel who will participate in operations. Environmental protection systems will be deployed and tested.
4
Phased Implementation
Operations will commence with Category A (highest priority) vessels, progressing through the removal schedule based on the established prioritisation matrix and environmental considerations.
5
Verification & Project Closure
Comprehensive verification of all sites will be conducted, with formal clearance certification and knowledge transfer to local authorities to support future marine operations.
Commitment to Excellence
We are fully committed to delivering this critical project to the highest standards of safety, environmental protection, and technical excellence. Our approach leverages decades of experience in marine salvage while incorporating innovative methods specifically tailored to Suva Harbour's unique environment and operational constraints.
By selecting our solution, you gain not only the immediate benefits of wreck removal and environmental protection but also the long-term advantages of enhanced local capability and sustainable marine resource management.

Ready to Proceed: Our team is fully prepared to begin mobilisation within 48 hours of contract award, with all necessary personnel, equipment, and systems ready for immediate deployment.