According to the fire brigade, the ship had not entered the marina the previous evening due to the low water level. The crew had therefore spent the night near the bridges. In the morning, they were woken by a loud bang and rising flames. The fire spread rapidly. The cause is still unclear, but it is assumed that there was a technical defect in the engine or battery area.
Fortunately, the couple were able to rescue themselves on the shore, where they were treated by rescue workers and taken to hospital with suspected smoke inhalation and hypothermia.
The fire brigade arrived with 41 firefighters, including several fire engines, a rescue boat and the water police. The fire was under control after about an hour, but the yacht was completely burnt out. Due to the low water level, direct salvage was initially not possible.
Bridge closed
During the extinguishing work, the Zollbrücke and Edithabrücke bridges had to be closed to vehicle traffic. Residents were asked to keep their windows and doors closed via a warning app. The closure was lifted again at around 7am.
The waterway police have begun investigating the cause of the fire. Possible environmental damage caused by leaked fuel is also being investigated. The damage to property is estimated at around 100,000 euros.
