Abandoned boats sea-k new owners

Wednesday 17 March 2021

Boats that have been abandoned or left in a state of disrepair around the island’s harbours are being put up for auction.

While Ports of Jersey says authorities make every effort to find owners of deserted vessels, of which they encounter around 10 a year, they have come up with this new initiative for when no one comes forward.

Previously, Ports of Jersey had to invoke the legal powers of the Harbour Master to take possession of the vessel and arrange for its removal and disposal, incurring any costs involved.

The new process will allow interested parties to bid for vessels or offer a price for its disposal.

Pictured: The Harbourmaster said removing abandoned vessels from moorings would free up more spaces for those wishing to get afloat.

Any proceeds from sales will be used to offset costs owed to or incurred by Ports of Jersey, such as outstanding mooring fees. Any surplus money will be returned to the owner if they can be traced or paid into the Government of Jersey’s Consolidated Fund.

“Disposal is a last resort and our preference is always to contact owners and support them to resolve any issues that may have led them to the abandonment of the vessel. This new initiative will allow others to take ownership of the vessels, which generally will need some TLC to make them sea-worthy, or to dispose of the vessels, such as for spare parts,” Harbourmaster Captain Bill Sadler explained.

“By removing abandoned vessels from moorings within our harbours, we will also be able to reallocate these spaces to new customers on our waiting lists, helping more people to get afloat.”

The first being put up for sale is a speedboat named ‘Jeannie’ (pictured top), a 5.5m Picton Bow Rider with 120hp Force outboard engine in unknown condition.

Bids can be submitted HERE over the next 14 days.