Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Clears Sunken Vessels to Revitalise Western Cape Harbors

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has made efforts to remove sunken and abandoned boats from Western Cape harbors. Working with the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), the initiative is transforming harbor spaces while creating new opportunities for fishers and coastal communities.

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What Happened

A total of 37 vessels were identified in Lamberts Bay, St Helena Bay, Saldanha Bay, Hout Bay, and Gordon’s Bay. Six have already been cleared, while 31 remain. Most are small leisure boats in Hout Bay, where divers and salvage teams are actively working to lift and remove wrecks.

The operation follows the Wreck and Salvage Act of 1996. It aims to make navigation safer, increase mooring space, and support local economic activity. As a result, several harbors will soon reopen unused berths for small-scale fishers.

Official Response

Minister Dion George praised the progress. “These efforts show our commitment to building safe and productive fishing harbors,” he said. “Clearing wrecks not only reduces risks but also opens economic opportunities for our communities.”

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Community Impact

The clean-up has created jobs for divers, contractors, and marine service providers. Moreover, it will benefit small-scale fisheries and boat owners seeking affordable mooring space. Additional vessel removals are planned for November and December 2025 to maintain progress across all affected harbors.