Houseboat Recovery and Salvage on Lake Powell – The Pearl

Houseboat Sinking Incident Involving The Pearl

In early June 2024, the 80-foot houseboat The Pearl sank at Wahweap Marina on Lake Powell after reportedly taking on water near the pump-out docks. The vessel, estimated to weigh approximately 110,000 pounds, submerged and came to rest below the waterline within an active marina area. The incident was identified by marina personnel and members of the public, and documentation of the sunken houseboat circulated shortly thereafter. Due to the size of the vessel and its location within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, the sinking raised considerations related to navigation safety, environmental protection, and coordination with appropriate managing agencies. Following the incident, a professional recovery effort was required to safely stabilize and refloat the vessel.

Professional Houseboat Recovery and Marine Salvage

Following the incident, Cross Marine Projects was contracted to complete the professional recovery and salvage of The Pearl. The project required experienced commercial divers, specialized marine salvage equipment, and a controlled recovery approach to safely stabilize and refloat the vessel. Prior to lifting operations, Cross Marine Projects engineered and installed custom valve assemblies to safely access the houseboat’s fuel tanks and remove more than 400 gallons of fuel, significantly reducing environmental risk. The recovery effort was supported through coordination with the National Park Service and assistance from Aramark marina personnel, whose cooperation helped facilitate safe access, site management, and operational logistics. Cross Marine Projects performed underwater assessment, rigging, and lift operations designed to maintain vessel integrity while minimizing risk to surrounding infrastructure and environmental resources. The successful recovery demonstrates Cross Marine Projects’ capabilities in large-vessel houseboat recovery, commercial diving services, underwater inspection, and complex marine salvage operations. Our team regularly supports marinas, managing agencies, and private owners with professional boat recovery and underwater services across the Western United States using industry-accepted commercial diving practices.