The Port Authority of the Balearic Islands (APB) successfully begins fuel extraction from the shipwreck in the port of Ibiza and makes progress in the refloating plan
Eivissa
14/04/2026- Environment and CSR
- Transport and infrastructure
The Balearic Islands Port Authority (APB) successfully commenced operations today, 14 April, to safely remove the hydrocarbons remaining in the sunken yacht, which lies at a depth of around 25 metres off the entrance to the port of Eivissa.
This operation, a priority within the operation, is especially complex due to the depth at which the vessel is located and the weather conditions, which affect both the diving work and the maritime operations. The APB monitors the progress of the work at all times, ensuring it is carried out correctly and minimising any risk to the marine environment.
The work that began today focuses on removing contaminants and cleaning the interior of the vessel, an essential step before moving on to the refloating phase.
Action plan and planned schedule
The operation began on April 11 with an initial inspection of the wreck using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), as well as the installation of containment barriers to prevent the dispersion of contaminants. Previously, the area had already been secured by placing a shipwreck buoy, properly marked, and absorbent barriers in the vicinity of the sinking.
On 12 and 13 April, work had to be suspended due to adverse weather conditions, which prevented both diving operations and safe navigation in the area.
Now that this incident has been resolved, the crucial phase of oil recovery and vessel cleaning began today, 14 April, and is currently underway.
Weather permitting, the installation of lifting bags is scheduled to take place between 15 and 16 April, as a preliminary step to the main operation. The salvage of the wreck and its subsequent towing to the Botafoc quay are scheduled for 17 April, whilst on 18 April the vessel will be hoisted out of the water, placed on dry dock and the relevant scrapping plan drawn up.
The remains will then be transported and deposited at the outer toe of the Botafoc breakwater, where they will be kept in safe custody. From 19 April until 26 April, the investigation and technical assessment of the incident will take place.
Since the start of the emergency, following the fire on 10 April, the APB has led all operations in Port Zone II, coordinating the various agencies involved and prioritising the safety of people (with no personal injuries) and the protection of the marine environment.
At present, the operational focus is on the safe removal of the fuel and on preparing for the complex refloating operations, which will depend on sea conditions over the coming days.
The Balearic Islands Port Authority has activated all control and monitoring mechanisms, reaffirming its commitment to efficient, safe and environmentally friendly port management.
