Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.
The explosion of a pleasure vessel in Fuengirola’s busy Puerto Deportivo caused all eight passengers to be injured and sent the vessel crashing into the seabed.
Witnesses and officials report that the incident occurred around noon near the “bocana” or entrance to the harbour.
For reasons still under investigation, the boat – which was navigating the waters of the marina at the time – suffered a sudden blast that ignited a fierce fire. On social media, one person described it as “something out of a film”, describing the thick black smoke billowing over the marina and the screams echoing from the waters.
Teams were mobilised immediately. The first to arrive were lifeguards of the Servicio de Salvamento y Socorrismo, who reached the stricken vessel in minutes and rescued the crew and passengers. Fuengirola firefighters, police officers, and Guardia Civil were soon on hand to help coordinate the evacuation. All eight individuals aboard – believed to be a mix of locals and tourists – sustained injuries ranging from burns and smoke inhalation to more severe trauma. According to the initial reports from emergency services, the three most seriously injured were airlifted to hospitals nearby for immediate treatment. Tragically, the deflagration was too strong for the boat which quickly sank in the shallow waters of the harbour. Agencia andaluza de puertos officials are monitoring the area closely, and deploying booms to mitigate the risk of any fuel or oil spills.
Divers and environmental experts are expected to inspect the wreck tomorrow for clues to the explosion’s cause, which remains unknown – though preliminary speculation points to a possible mechanical failure or fuel mishap.
This is a sobering development for Fuengirola’s sports harbour. The busy port, which attracts day-trippers and yachting enthusiasts from Spain’s Costa del Sol, has seen a dramatic decline in activity. The authorities have asked the public not to enter the area as investigations are ongoing. The Guardia Civil, along with forensics teams, is leading the investigation.
Local leaders expressed relief and concern over the quick rescue efforts. “Our hearts go out to the families – Fuengirola stands ready to support them through this ordeal,” said Fuengirola Mayor Ana Mula in a social media post.
