Environment Canterbury says it's likely all the marine diesel fuel that was on a tourist boat which grounded yesterday outside Akaroa Heads has gone into the sea

It says the environment seems to be coping with the release of this fuel, with sheens decreasing throughout the day.

The Black Cat Cruise vessel grounded with 38 passengers and three crew on board.

Everyone was rescued without injury.

Wildlife specialists are on standby, but no distressed animals have been spotted so far.

Regional on-scene commander Emma Parr says plans are also underway to recover the vessel, including moving it into deeper water before removing it.