WILDWOOD, NJ — A 42-foot yacht caught fire and sank on Thursday afternoon while moored at the fuel dock of Schooner Island Marina, according to the City of Wildwood Fire Department. The vessel was fully engulfed in flames before 1 p.m., prompting a significant emergency response.
Firefighters from Wildwood, North Wildwood, and Erma initially responded to the scene. Upon arrival, the severity of the fire led to an upgrade to a full first alarm assignment, which brought in off-duty firefighters and additional resources from Wildwood Crest, Rio Grande, and Stone Harbor fire companies. Fire boats from North Wildwood and Stone Harbor also assisted in battling the blaze.
The fire happened just feet away from the marina fuel pumps.
The firefighters launched an “aggressive attack” on the fire, which had spread to the dock and a nearby shed. Despite their efforts, the yacht eventually sank due to the large volume of water used to extinguish the flames. A subsequent fuel fire ignited on the water’s surface but was quickly contained using foam. The fire was declared under control within approximately 40 minutes.
No injuries were reported in the incident. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.
