Overview:
For years, abandoned fishing vessels have remained in Palau’s waters — polluting the marine environment and marring some of Koror’s most scenic waterways. Now, a U.S. Navy salvage ship is helping change that. The removal of three sunken vessels from Malakal Harbor is underway, clearing the way for planned dredging and raising a bigger question: What should be done with the other derelict vessels still scattered across Palau’s waters?
By: L.N. Reklai
KOROR, Palau (August 17, 2026)— The U.S. Navy has begun removing long-abandoned and derelict vessels from Koror State waters, helping clear pollution hazards and maritime obstacles from Malakal Harbor and surrounding waterways.
The joint effort involves the Koror State Government and its Department of Conservation and Law Enforcement, the Republic of Palau’s Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Industries, the U.S. Navy and the Environmental Quality Protection Board.
Koror State authorities said the project reflects a shared commitment to protecting Palau’s marine environment, improving public safety and preserving the natural beauty of its waterways for future generations.
Many of the abandoned vessels are remnants of the period when Palau had an active commercial fishing industry. Over the years, some were left in and around Malakal Harbor and other areas of Koror State, including waters near the Rock Islands, creating pollution concerns and detracting from the surrounding pristine lagoon environment.
Authorities have sought for years to remove the vessels, which can pose environmental, navigational and public safety risks.
The current operation is being carried out with assistance from the U.S. Navy’s USNS Grasp (T-ARS-51), a rescue and salvage ship.
President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. toured the USNS Grasp at Malakal Seaport on Aug. 4. The vessel is stationed in Palau to support the safe removal of three sunken vessels in Malakal Harbor.
According to information from the Office of the President, the vessel-removal operation is an important first step before the U.S. military begins dredging work in the harbor.
During his tour, Whipps thanked Capt. Joel Bruce and the Grasp crew for their work and continued partnership with Palau.
Whipps said clearing the waterways and creating a deeper harbor would be a major step forward for Palau and provide long-term benefits.
Koror State authorities said removal of the second vessel is currently underway.
The effort is also expected to improve the appearance and accessibility of Koror’s waterways while addressing the legacy of vessels that have remained abandoned for years.
Koror State expressed its appreciation to MPII, the U.S. Navy and EQPB for their assistance and collaboration, saying the partnership is helping keep Koror’s waters clean and safe.
The removal effort comes as Palau continues to balance the protection of its internationally recognized marine environment with the need to maintain safe and functional harbors and waterways.