UPDATE: ‘Prodiver Maui’ Vessel Sinks by Molokini Crater

By David Kvasnicka

Molokini Crater. File photo by Wendy Osher.

UPDATE: The Department of Land and Natural Resources says that it is “highly unlikely” that the vessel will be able to be salvaged. The department’s Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement will not be investigating.

The vessel Prodiver Maui sank in waters by Molokini Crater on Wednesday morning, July 16, the Coast Guard confirmed.

All aboard were rescued by a Good Samaritan vessel that has not been identified. The Coast Guard received a distress call but were not involved in the rescue.

Contrary to previous media reports, there were eight people rescued; one captain, one crew, and six passengers, said Coast Guard Lieutenant Kevin Cooper.

The Prodiver Maui vessel specializes in scuba diving excursions. The company did not immediately respond to inquiries.

A crew member on a recreational vessel which was also in the area later that day described conditions as extremely rough, with many passengers experiencing sea-sickness.

Lt. Cooper said the Coast Guard is investigating this “serious marine incident.”

The Coast Guard won’t handle the removal of the sunken vessel but will act as the federal on-scene coordinator, says Cooper, and ensure the owner/responsible party cleans up any oil or fuel that may leak from the vessel.