Fire engulfs yacht on Saigon River during repairs

At 9:10 pm the same day, local authorities in Thanh My Tay Ward were still coordinating with police officers to examine the scene and investigate the cause of the blaze.

Sources told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that initial site inspections and statements from a mechanic working on the vessel indicated that the fire originated in the engine room.

The mechanic was repairing the engine when flames suddenly flared up and quickly spread to nearby areas containing oil, causing the fire to intensify rapidly.

He attempted to extinguish the flames using a portable fire extinguisher, but the effort failed.

As the fire spread too quickly, he shouted for help from people on shore.

By the time assistance arrived, the fire had already grown out of control.

Residents subsequently alerted authorities and called the fire brigade.

The yacht was docked close to the riverbank for repainting and maintenance, and only one mechanic was on board when the fire broke out.

“With the Lunar New Year holiday approaching, the owner had the vessel repainted and redecorated. Unfortunately, no one expected a fire to occur,” a source said.

At around 4:00 pm on Wednesday, a fierce fire erupted on the tourist boat while it was anchored along the Saigon River, about 200 meters from the foot of the Saigon Bridge.

The blaze was accompanied by several loud explosions.

Nearby residents attempted to help but were unable to contain the fire.

Firefighting and rescue forces were swiftly deployed to the scene and sprayed water onto the burning vessel.

After more than two hours, the fire was completely extinguished, but the yacht was gutted and left badly charred.

The vessel offered night sightseeing cruises on the Saigon River and operated tours to Can Gio.

The two-deck yacht measured 28 meters in length and 10 meters in width, had a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour, and was made of composite materials.

It had a maximum capacity of 90 passengers and was designed like a floating restaurant, equipped with dining tables, chairs, curtains, air-conditioning, and lighting systems for hosting parties and events.