Illegally Moored “Pirate Ship” Scrapped in Hawaii, Taxpayers Likely to Foot Bill
A 72-foot "pirate ship", the "Treasure Seeker," that was illegally moored in Hawaii's Ala Wai boat harbor, leaked fuel, and became a hazard, has been impounded by the state and scrapped. The article points out that taxpayers are likely to…
Biloxi Gulfport, MS, September 26, 2026 — The state of Hawaii has taken action to remove and scrap the “Treasure Seeker,” a 72-foot vessel described as a “pirate ship,” which had been illegally moored in the Ala Wai boat harbor. The vessel was reportedly leaking fuel and posed a hazard before its impoundment and subsequent disposal.
The removal and scrapping of the “Treasure Seeker” raises questions about who will bear the financial burden for these operations. Reports indicate that taxpayers are likely to incur these costs. This projection stems from a documented history where state agencies have faced challenges in recovering expenses from the owners of abandoned vessels.
The specific owner of the “Treasure Seeker” was not identified in the information provided. The vessel’s illegal mooring status, coupled with its leaking fuel, contributed to its classification as a hazard within the Ala Wai boat harbor, prompting the state’s intervention.
While the vessel has been scrapped, the issue of recovering costs associated with derelict and illegally moored boats remains a significant concern. The state’s track record suggests that the financial responsibility for such incidents often falls on public funds rather than vessel owners, particularly when owners are not identified or cannot be located to cover the expenses.
Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on www.wxxv25.com, see more information here.
