KCC carries out vessel refloating operations for sunken or partially sunken small craft, workboats, barges, and coastal vessels in Hong Kong waters. Our commercial divers conduct an initial underwater survey of the casualty to assess hull condition, flooding pattern, and the most appropriate refloating method — compressed air injection, lifting bags, or dewatering pumps — before any equipment is committed.
A refloating plan and risk assessment are prepared, covering environmental protection measures, pollution control, and towing arrangements. KCC seals hull openings and penetrations by diver, injects compressed air or deploys lifting bags in a controlled sequence, and monitors the vessel as it rises to confirm stability before towing to a safe berth for further assessment and repair.
Compliance: All diving operations are conducted under IMCA D 045 and HSE Diving at Work Regulations 1997. Pollution prevention measures comply with Hong Kong Marine Department requirements and MARPOL. Operations are coordinated with the Hong Kong Marine Department and, where required, the Marine Accident Investigation Section (MAIS).
A sunken vessel creates an immediate navigational hazard, environmental pollution risk, and significant financial loss for the owner. KCC's diver-led refloating capability allows rapid, controlled recovery of the casualty — minimising further damage to the vessel, reducing environmental impact, and clearing the hazard from the waterway.
Wreck Removal & Seabed Clearance
Full-scope wreck removal and seabed clearance — from initial diver survey through cutting, lifting, and final post-works inspection.
Cargo & Equipment Recovery
Diver-led recovery of cargo, equipment, and valuables from sunken vessels and marine incidents — from initial assessment through to surface handover.
Emergency Salvage Response
24/7 emergency response for vessel casualties, groundings, and marine incidents — KCC mobilises a dive team within hours to assess, stabilise, and begin salvage operations.
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Subsea Engineering
Specialist subsea engineering solutions for complex marine construction, structural rehabilitation,
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All diving operations conducted to IMCA, ADCI, HSE & HKCP standards
Our team is ready to discuss your project requirements and provide a detailed proposal.