Maritime Safety Queensland reports sunken yacht off Sunshine Coast

Mariners are being urged to take care after reports a 10m yacht has sunk off the Sunshine Coast’s Twin Waters.

Coast guard crossing the bar at Mooloolaba. Picture Lachie Millard

Boaties are being warned to stay clear of a submerged yacht off the coast of Twin Waters.

A Coast Guard Mooloolaba spokesman said the they received the warning from Brisbane Maritime that the sunken yacht was about 1.5km east of Twin Waters.

He said the 10m yacht sunk in 14m of water and was “sitting on the bottom”.

Maritime Safety Queensland general manager Andrew Mahon said the yacht sank sometime overnight on Friday or Saturday morning.

“It is understood the vessel was under tow and all crew were safely removed before it was anchored where it subsequently sank in 14 metres of water,” Mr Mahon said.

“There been no reports of debris which could become a hazard to navigation.

“Mariners operating in the area should be mindful the sunken vessel could foul anchors or fishing nets.”

Mr Mahon said the owners of the yacht were responsible for its removal.

“Owners are always responsible for the maintenance or removal of their vessels from Queensland waters,” he said.

“The owner has been contacted and Maritime Safety Queensland will continue to work with them towards removal of the vessel.

“Where owners fail to comply or can’t be located MSQ has options to seize vessels and remove them as well as to recover costs where practicable through the courts.”