On September 19, 2021, a fire broke out in the auxiliary engine room of the Finland-registered cargo ship Finnmaster while departing Hull, resulting in a loss of power. Fortunately, the crew extinguished the fire and returned safely to port, but significant damage occurred, highlighting critical safety issues and mechanical failures.
The Maritime Technologies Forum will release a crucial report on September 30, aimed at assisting ship operators in managing risks from electric vehicle (EV) fires on carriers and ferries. The report outlines best practices, including early detection systems, explosion-resistant equipment, and enhanced training, to improve safety amid ongoing debates about EV fire risks.
A significant warehouse fire erupted in Hamburg on August 25, injuring at least ten people and disrupting local shipping. The blaze, ignited by a parked car, led to explosions from gas canisters. Over 320 firefighters battled the flames, while evacuations rescued 25 individuals, though some sustained serious injuries.
On August 13, 2025, the crew of the Marie Maersk container ship successfully contained a fire while navigating off the Liberian coast. Quick firefighting efforts ensured crew safety and operational stability. Additional support from tugboats and an offshore supply vessel further enhanced firefighting operations as the ship diverted for landside assistance.
A fire erupted Saturday in Yeosu, South Korea, involving an oil tanker and a cargo ship, resulting in one death and two injuries. While both vessels were moored, witnesses alerted the Coast Guard. Rescue operations saved 18 crew members, but the cargo ship’s captain was found unconscious and later died.
A fire broke out on the Maersk containership Marie Maersk off the coast of Liberia. The crew activated firefighting systems and followed emergency protocols. All crew members are safe, and the ship remains stable. Maersk is in contact with the crew, assessing the situation and seeking landside support.
On August 7, a fire broke out on the cargo vessel Tali in the North Sea near Norway. With 14 crew members aboard, the ship was en route from Cuxhaven to Tau. Norwegian authorities swiftly responded, and all crew were safe, though one was airlifted for smoke inhalation evaluation.
On Friday, all 20 crew members of the Vietnamese cargo vessel GT Unity were rescued after a fire broke out in its engine room, about 104 nautical miles from Côn Đảo Island. The Liberian-flagged ship Androusa reported the incident, prompting swift rescue efforts by maritime authorities.
A 29-year-old man received a suspended prison sentence for allegedly igniting a garbage can on the cruise ferry Viking Grace, carrying over 1,000 passengers. The fire self-extinguished, causing no damage. He claimed intoxication from a Christmas party impaired his memory, but surveillance footage confirmed his involvement, leading to a guilty verdict.
A 41-meter superyacht, Sea Lady II, is at risk of sinking after a fire on July 9. No fatalities occurred, but firefighters are concerned about the vessel’s stability. An anti-pollution barrier has been deployed, and two crew members were rescued with smoke inhalation. An investigation is underway.
The burned boxship Wan Hai 503 is currently under tow off India’s southeastern coast as salvors stabilize the vessel. Despite ongoing smoke from the holds, fire suppression efforts using foam have contained the flames. Tugs are on-site for cooling, while dewatering and alternative port options are being explored.
On July 6, the Hong Kong-flagged tanker Fulda faced a fire and explosion while traveling from Kandla to Port Sohar. After discharging methanol, the vessel began gas-freeing operations when the blast occurred. All 21 crew members were safely evacuated, and pollution control measures were initiated as a precaution.
The supertanker Sloug, previously used for storage off Libya, caught fire while being dismantled at a Turkish yard on July 3. Firefighters battled the blaze, which raised concerns about hazardous materials onboard, including potential chemical waste. Protests have emerged, demanding an investigation into the dismantling process and safety measures.
On June 25, the supply vessel Ceutamar Cinco caught fire in the Bay of Gibraltar while supplying a container ship. Thick black smoke alarmed beachgoers, but all seven crew members evacuated safely. Emergency services swiftly responded, towing the vessel to a pier and extinguishing the blaze. Investigations are ongoing.
Residents in Hull are alarmed by smoky conditions and a strong odor after a fire broke out on the cargo ship Altay at Albert Dock. Several businesses have closed, and police advise motorists to exercise caution. Humberside Fire and Rescue is on-site, urging locals to keep windows closed.
