UPDATED: Firefighters are this evening (Sunday) tackling a fire on board Hovertravel’s Island Express hovercraft.
Smoke can be seen to be rising from the vessel, which is currently at the company’s Ryde terminal.
Two appliances from Ryde Fire Station are in attendance and firefighters are using breathing apparatus and a hose reel to tackle the flames.
HM Coastguard are also present at the scene due to the marine aspect to the incident.
UPDATE @ 22:35 – Fire crews have now left the scene and have returned to station after being called to Quay Road on Ryde Esplanade shortly before 21:24 this evening.
It is understood the fire has been contained to one section of the craft, near to the rear of the cabin, however it is currently unknown the severity of the damaged caused.
A spokesperson for Hovertravel has this evening told Island Echo:
“Hovertravel can confirm that the fire service was called at 21:16 today. As part of the normal close-down procedure on Island Express, a fire alarm was raised and as per standard procedure the fire shutters and extinguishers were activated. The Fire Service was notified and arrived on the scene at 21:20.
Article continues below this advertisement There were no passengers on-board the hovercraft and there were no passengers on the pad. The Fire Service left the scene at 22:25.
Hovertravel are investigating the cause and have notified and are working with the relevant authorities.”
UPDATE @ 05:45 – Due to last night’s fire, Hovertravel are operating a one craft service until further notice. The following crossings are cancelled so far:
From Ryde – 07.30, 08.00
From Southsea – 07.45, 08.15
It has been confirmed by the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service this morning that the fire broke out in the starboard engine area.
Replay our live video broadcast from the incident below…
