Marine Salvage
Specialists in marine salvage and vessel recovery across the Bay of Plenty, Waikato and the Rotorua Lakes areas. Experienced divers and skippers equipped for refloating, towing, and debris removal in harbour, river, lakes, and offshore environments.
Marine Salvage & Vessel Recovery
When things go wrong on the water, you need a crew who can respond quickly, safely, and effectively. Bay Marine Works specialises in marine salvage and vessel recovery across the Bay of Plenty, Rotorua Lakes, and Waikato regions. From stranded boats to submerged wrecks, our experienced dive and vessel teams handle complex recoveries with precision and care.
Our commercial divers and certified skippers are trained to assess each situation on site, creating a safe and efficient recovery plan suited to the environment and vessel condition. Whether the task involves refloating grounded craft, towing disabled vessels, or removing debris and hazards from rivers, harbours, and lakes, we’ve got the right equipment and the technical expertise to get the job done.
Using a combination of inshore and offshore work vessels, hydraulic lifting systems, and SSBA dive equipment, we can tackle everything from small runabouts to commercial vessels and barges. Safety and environmental protection are at the forefront of every operation – we work closely with local councils, harbourmasters, and insurers to ensure every recovery is carried out responsibly and within regulatory requirements.
Our marine salvage services include:
- Vessel refloating and towage
- Grounding and entrapment recovery
- Wreck removal and site clearance
- Debris and hazard removal
- Salvage diving and underwater rigging
- Emergency response for storm or collision events
Whether it’s an emergency call-out or a planned wreck removal, Bay Marine Works offers rapid mobilisation, practical solutions, and peace of mind. We’re the team that gets you – and your vessel – safely back to shore.
Case Study
Sailboat Recovery off Matakana Island, Tauranga
When a 40-foot ferro-cement sailboat ran aground off Matakana Island, it became a stranded hazard in a shallow and environmentally sensitive stretch of Tauranga Harbour. The vessel had been abandoned, and responsibility for its removal fell to Bay of Plenty Regional Council, who engaged Bay Marine Works to manage the recovery and disposal operation.
The Challenge
The yacht was firmly grounded, with its keel embedded in the shallow seabed. Traditional towing from the stern or bow risked damaging the hull further and disturbing the surrounding seabed. The site’s limited access, shifting sandbars, and tidal currents made the recovery both technically demanding and safety-critical.
The Solution
Bay Marine Works’ dive and vessel teams developed a tailored recovery plan designed to free the vessel without causing additional damage or environmental impact.
Using a controlled heeling method, the crew applied a gentle pull via the mast, creating enough lean on the hull to release the keel from the seabed. This approach allowed the yacht to be carefully manoeuvred into deeper water without compromising its structural integrity.
Throughout the operation, multiple support vessels were deployed to maintain stability, manage lines, and ensure diver and crew safety. Coordination between surface crews, divers, and skippers was continuous, with clear communication and risk management at every step.
The Outcome
Once refloated, the sailboat was safely navigated through Tauranga Harbour’s narrow channels and sandbars, escorted by Bay Marine Works’ vessels to prevent drift or re-grounding. The yacht was then towed back to shore, lifted from the water, and placed into secure cradle storage for decommissioning and eventual disposal.
Results
- Successful recovery of a grounded 40-foot ferro-cement yacht
- Zero environmental impact or structural failure during the operation
- Full compliance with council and maritime safety requirements
- Rapid and coordinated response ensuring public and navigational safety
Conclusion
This project showcased Bay Marine Works’ ability to manage complex marine salvage operations with precision, safety, and respect for the environment. Combining skilled commercial divers, experienced skippers, and purpose-built marine equipment, the team delivered a successful outcome for both the client and the wider harbour community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you handle both private and commercial vessel recoveries?
Yes. Bay Marine Works assists private boat owners, commercial operators, councils, insurers, and harbour authorities with marine salvage, refloating, and vessel recovery operations across the Bay of Plenty, Rotorua Lakes, and Waikato regions.
What types of vessels can you recover?
We have experience recovering everything from small recreational craft and houseboats through to yachts, barges, and commercial vessels. Our team can operate in shallow harbours, lakes, rivers, and offshore environments.
How quickly can you respond to a salvage emergency?
Our crew can mobilise rapidly, often within hours depending on conditions and location. With dedicated work vessels, dive systems, and lifting gear always ready to go, we’re equipped for both planned and emergency salvage operations.
Is marine salvage covered by insurance?
In many cases, yes. We frequently work with insurers and loss adjusters to assess, recover, and document vessel damage. We can provide detailed reports, photos, and video evidence to support insurance claims and regulatory compliance.
What happens to a vessel after it’s recovered?
Depending on the condition and ownership status, vessels are either returned to their owner, stored for assessment, or safely decommissioned and disposed of in line with council and environmental guidelines.
How do you ensure environmental protection during recovery?
Environmental care is central to every operation. We use controlled lift and tow techniques to minimise seabed disturbance, contain any fuel or debris, and follow strict regional environmental management protocols.
Can you remove wrecks or debris that pose a navigation hazard?
Yes. Our team regularly removes sunken or damaged vessels, floating debris, and other marine hazards from harbours, rivers, and lakes to restore safe navigation and protect local ecosystems.
Do you work alongside local authorities and harbourmasters?
We do. Bay Marine Works has strong working relationships with regional councils, port authorities, and the harbourmaster’s office to ensure every operation meets safety and environmental regulations.
Are your divers and skippers qualified for this kind of work?
Yes. All Bay Marine Works divers are ADAS certified commercial divers, and our skippers hold appropriate maritime licences. Every project is managed under strict health and safety protocols and dive management plans.