A 60-foot Maritimo motor yacht sank yesterday while under tow to Whangārei, settling in shallow water near Slipper Island’s South Bay.
According to Waikato Regional Harbourmaster’s office, the vessel took on water through open engine hatches and went down in around four metres of water. The boat had previously been salvaged and was not carrying oil or hazardous materials at the time, reducing environmental risk.
Slipper Island lies just off the eastern Coromandel coast, about 3 kilometres southeast of Tairua and Pauanui. The privately owned island is a popular boating and fishing spot, with sheltered anchorages such as Home Bay attracting visiting yachts and launches throughout the year.
The wreck has been anchored on the seabed to prevent movement, and salvage operations are expected. Boaties and fishers in the area are advised to exercise caution around South Bay while work is underway.
