Fuel removed from grounded vessel as recovery efforts continue

Fuel has been successfully removed from the grounded passenger vessel MV Fiji Princess in the Malolo Group, reducing the risk of marine pollution.

The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) confirmed that about 23,000 litres of fuel were transferred from the vessel on Monday as part of ongoing response efforts.

A salvage support vessel has since departed the site following the completion of the fuel transfer operation, while oil spill response booms remain on standby as a precaution.

The crew of the Fiji Princess were safely transferred to a sister vessel, Cougar, and transported to Port Denarau.

MSAF said further recovery work to refloat the vessel would begin once weather and sea conditions improve.

The authority said it remained focused on ensuring the safety of personnel and protecting Fiji’s marine environment as recovery efforts continue.