Safety investigation launched in wake of boat fire

A safety investigation has been launched into a boat fire that occurred at Nanny Cay Marina earlier this month, as authorities continue to review marine fire risks following a recent spate of vessel incidents in territorial waters.

The Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA), under the Premier’s Office, confirmed it is investigating a fire involving a privately owned houseboat that erupted at Nanny Cay Marina on January 8.

The vessel, Kelly Jayne, was a 67-foot aluminium ferry-type craft that had been converted into a houseboat with extensive wooden customisations on its deck. The release stated that the vessel, owned by a resident of St Maarten, had been out of service for several months before the incident.

Two days before the fire, the vessel had been occupied while docked and connected to shore power. No issues were reported at that time, and no one was on board when the fire broke out. No injuries were reported, according to MSIRA.

Smoke was first observed emanating from the aft section of the vessel, prompting marina personnel to alert Husky Salvage and Towing, who responded and removed the vessel from the dock area. Their actions reduced the risk of the blaze spreading to neighbouring vessels and marine infrastructure, Chief Marine Accident Investigator Jerome Padmore stated. Emergency responders arrived shortly after and extinguished the fire.

Preliminary findings indicate the vessel had been inactive for several months and was docked at Nanny Cay in preparation for sea trials at the time of the incident. Investigators found no immediately visible issues with the shore power connection, though the condition of onboard batteries and other electrical equipment has not yet been verified. Investigators also noted that extensive wooden fittings and household furniture contributed to the extent of the fire damage.

MSIRA said it has commenced a safety investigation to establish the circumstances and contributing factors surrounding the fire. The investigation is being conducted in accordance with Accident Investigation Regulations, with the stated aim of improving marine safety and preventing recurrence, rather than assigning blame.

The authority also reminded vessel owners, operators and marina users to follow essential fire-safety precautions, including inspecting shore-power connections, maintaining smoke and heat alarms, ensuring fire extinguishers are accessible, and promptly reporting any signs of smoke or electrical issues to marina staff or emergency services.