Fire Erupts Aboard GNV Phoenix Ferry in the Port of Naples During Maintenance Operations

A major fire broke out aboard the GNV Phoenix ferry while the vessel was docked in the Port of Naples undergoing maintenance work. The incident occurred on May 27 and triggered a large-scale emergency response after thick black smoke was seen rising above the harbor and surrounding areas.

The vessel was moored at berths 29–30 within the commercial port when the fire started. At the time of the incident, the ferry was undergoing technical work and preparations for future service.

Fire Started During Maintenance Work

According to preliminary reports, the blaze originated on one of the lower decks or in the engine room area. Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene, including firefighters, port authorities, and rescue teams.

Due to the intensity of the smoke, access to parts of the port area was temporarily restricted while emergency crews worked to contain the situation.

Crew Members and Workers Safely Evacuated

Several crew members and contractors were reportedly on board when the fire broke out.

According to local authorities:

• all personnel were safely evacuated;
• no fatalities were reported;
• no serious injuries have been confirmed.

Emergency teams focused on preventing the fire from spreading to other sections of the vessel and minimizing potential structural damage.

Firefighters Battled the Blaze for Several Hours

The firefighting operation involved:

• Naples Fire Brigade;
• port emergency services;
• specialized maritime firefighting teams;
• tugboats and support vessels.

After several hours of intensive work, the fire was brought under control. Firefighters continued cooling operations and monitoring the vessel to prevent any reignition.

About GNV Phoenix

GNV Phoenix is one of the largest vessels operated by the Italian ferry company Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV).

Key specifications include:

• length: approximately 214 meters;
• vessel type: Ro-Pax Ferry;
• built in 2003 by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri;
• previously operated under the name Athara;
• capable of carrying passengers, vehicles, and freight cargo.

The vessel had only recently joined the GNV fleet and was undergoing maintenance before entering service on Mediterranean routes.

Investigation Underway

The exact cause of the fire remains unknown. Authorities have launched an investigation and are examining several possible scenarios, including an incident related to ongoing maintenance or hot-work operations aboard the vessel.

Experts are currently assessing the extent of the damage and determining whether repairs will be required before the ferry can return to service.

The incident serves as another reminder of the risks associated with maintenance work aboard large passenger vessels and highlights the importance of strict fire safety procedures in ports and ship repair facilities.