Fire destroys Red Sea liveaboards

Four Red Sea liveaboards have been destroyed by fire while undergoing maintenance in dry dock in the Suez.

Popular boats including MY Typhoon, MY VIP One, MY Hyatt and Sweet Dream were all lost in the blaze on 30 January. The fire is believed to have started on MY Typhoon before spreading to other vessels in strong winds.

Firefighters tried to control the fire during fierce winds caused by recent storms across the Red Sea, however, they were unable to rescue the four boats. The authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the blaze, but preliminary reports indicate that the first started in the dry dock electricity wiring to MY Typhoon.

In a statement, Tornado Marine Fleet, which operates Typhoon, said: “Typhoon has given many happy memories to clients and staff alike and will be missed within the fleet. Plans are already in process to expand the fleet once again and we hope we will be announcing a new arrival in the near future.”

A spokesman for Red Sea Diving College, which operates MY VIP One, said: “The fire, which started on another boat, quickly became out of control and efforts by the fire crews could not prevent the fire from spreading from boat to boat, destroying everything in its path. All bookings will be contacted shortly regarding their reservations.”

Passing on his message of support to members affected by the blaze, CDWS managing director Zeyad M ElBassel said: “hankfully no person was injured. These safari boats, all CDWS members, have been operating for many years and it is sad that they will no longer be welcoming divers to the Red Sea and showing the best that these waters have to offer.”

The operators of the liveaboards, all CDWS members, are currently organising alternative arrangements for diving guests booked on these boats throughout 2010.