Towing a Boat and Boat Removal in Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s Abandoned Boat Problem: How Recycling Can Help

Rhode Island’s picturesque coastline, from Narragansett Bay to Block Island, is a cornerstone of its natural beauty and economy. However, abandoned boats are becoming an urgent issue, clogging marinas, damaging ecosystems, and posing safety risks. In this guide, we’ll explore how recycling offers a sustainable solution to Rhode Island’s derelict vessel crisis—and how Boat Removal RI can help.


The Scale of Rhode Island’s Abandoned Boat Crisis

Abandoned boats are a growing problem in Rhode Island due to:

  • Rising Disposal Costs: Owners often abandon vessels to avoid paying for proper disposal.
  • Storm Damage: Hurricanes and nor’easters wreck boats, leaving debris in areas like Newport and Warwick.
  • Environmental Harm: Derelict fiberglass boats leak toxins, fuel, and microplastics into sensitive habitats like Ninigret Pond.
  • Legal Liability: RI law holds owners responsible for abandoned boats, but many lack awareness of disposal options.

How Recycling Transforms Abandoned Boats

Recycling derelict vessels isn’t just eco-friendly—it’s practical. Here’s how it works in Rhode Island:

  1. Material Recovery:
    • Fiberglass: Crushed for use in construction materials or disposed.
    • Metals: Aluminum, copper, and steel are salvaged and sold to RI scrap yards.
    • Engines & Electronics: Refurbished or recycled to prevent hazardous waste.
  2. Environmental Benefits:
    • Prevents fiberglass, toxins and microplastics from entering Narragansett Bay.
    • Reduces landfill waste (RI landfills are nearing capacity).
  3. Community Impact:
    • Frees up marina space in cities like Providence and Bristol.
    • Supports RI’s coastal tourism and fishing industries.

How to Responsibly Recycle Your Boat in Rhode Island

  1. Report Abandoned Vessels: Contact RI DEM or local harbormasters.
  2. Choose LOCAL: Let us help remove and dispose of any sized boat.
  3. Act Early: Delaying disposal risks fines up to $5,000 under RI regulations.

FAQs About Boat Recycling in Rhode Island

Q: How long does recycling take?
A: Most boats are removed within 48-72 hours of scheduling.

Q: Are there grants for boat recycling?
A: Rhode Island occasionally offers DEM-funded cleanup programs—ask us for updates!


Get a Free Quote for Boat Recycling Today!

Rhode Island’s waterways deserve better. If you’re dealing with an abandoned or unwanted boat, Boat Removal RI provides:

  • Local, Insured Disposal of Boats in Rhode Island
  • Transparent pricing – One price gets it gone!
  • Same-day and next day emergency service available.

☎️ Call or Text: 401-360-5837
📝 Online Form: Visit our homepage

For your free quote, provide:

  • Your location (e.g., Newport, Warwick, Jamestown)
  • Approximate length of the boat
  • current picture of the vessel

Boat Removal RI is your local partner in tackling Rhode Island’s abandoned boat crisis. Let’s protect our coastlines—one recycled vessel at a time. 🚤♻️

Serving all of Rhode Island, including Providence, North Kingstown, and Block Island.