Florida extends deadline for Hurricane Ian derelict-vessel salvage help

An FWC waiver program to help the owners of hurricane-related derelict vessels pay for the removal and disposal of their boats has been extended through the end of 2022 © FWC

Acknowledging the significant challenge facing many recreational boat owners who are unable to pay salvage costs for their Hurricane Ian- wrecked vessels, or who may still be assessing the extent of the damage, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) extended its Hurricane Ian waiver program through the end of 2022.

The waivers, which require boat owners to release ownership of their vessels, are for the removal and destruction of Hurricane Ian-damaged vessels in public waterways. The waiver program's grace period was formerly Nov. 15.

Owners must apply by calling the FWC Hurricane Ian Vessel Hotline at 850-488-5600 and request to turn over their derelict vessels. An FWC representative will then explain the waiver process and facilitate the potential turnover of ownership.

In a press release, FWC notes, "Owners are still encouraged to hire a salvage company themselves to recover their vessel to provide the safest method possible for the vessel and the environment." But if they can't, the FWC waiver can facilitate removal and destruction of the vessel at no cost to the former vessel owner.

Derelict vessels cause environmental and navigational hazards, not to mention being a blight on the state's pristine waters. "It's a winning program for our waterways, all responsible boat owners and the state," said Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) manager of government Affairs David Kennedy.

If a derelict vessel is not brought into compliance by the end of December, it will be treated as any other derelict vessel, according to FWC, which could bring fines or other legal action.