The wreckage of the pleasure craft that caught fire and sank off Bighi last week was recovered from the sea bed on Wednesday afternoon.

The operation involved divers and specialised equipment, and was monitored by Transport Malta officers from the Vessel Traffic Services, Port Inspectors Unit and Maritime enforcement officers. 

The wreckage has been towed ashore and placed on land for further investigations.

As soon as the police gave their authorisation, Transport Malta instructed the owner to remove the wreckage, as soon as possible, to minimise any associated risks or dangers.

The blaze had been contained by the rapid reactions of marina staff, who towed the boat out of the marina, where it eventually sank, after which an army of people from Transport Malta, the Civil Protection Department and other entities, who collected debris and monitored pollution, got involved.

A thin sheen formed off Kalkara following the accident, however, nothing could be done to recover it. The sheen has since evaporated and dispersed naturally.

Photos: Transport Malta

The extent of the devastating fire can clearly be seen from the wreckage.

Part of the bow survived the flames, which were doused when the boat sank.