Two Tourist Boats Sink After Fire Near Paxos, Greece
A major fire involving two tourist vessels occurred near the Greek island of Paxos in the Ionian Sea, resulting in both boats sinking despite extensive firefighting efforts. Fortunately, all passengers and crew members were evacuated safely and no injuries were reported.
According to the Hellenic Coast Guard, the incident began when one passenger vessel arrived in the area already engulfed in flames. The boat was carrying 18 American tourists and four crew members, all of whom were safely evacuated.
The fire quickly spread to a second nearby tourist vessel carrying four crew members, including one Greek and three Egyptian nationals. They were also rescued without injuries.
A large emergency response operation was launched involving Coast Guard patrol boats, firefighting vessels, private boats and a tugboat. Firefighters and local authorities also assisted from shore in an attempt to contain the blaze.
Despite the response, both vessels eventually sank and several nearby boats sustained damage. Authorities also reported a small marine pollution incident affecting an area of approximately 100 square meters. Anti-pollution barriers and absorbent materials were immediately deployed to limit environmental impact.
Greek port authorities arrested the 30-year-old captain of one of the vessels as part of the ongoing investigation into the cause of the fire. The exact origin of the incident has not yet been determined.
The accident highlights the importance of rapid emergency response procedures and fire safety measures for passenger vessels operating in popular tourist destinations.
