A major fire broke out early Thursday morning at Marina Zea in Piraeus, causing extensive damage as four vessels were completely destroyed and later sank. The fire is believed to have started shortly after 3 a.m. on a wooden sailing boat that operated tourist routes between Athens and Aegina. Within minutes, three yachts were completely destroyed and sank, while others sustained damage.
According to initial reports, the flames spread rapidly to three nearby luxury yachts, engulfing them before firefighters could bring the blaze under control. The intense heat and dense smoke made the operation particularly challenging.
Thick clouds of smoke blanketed the waterfront and drifted inland, affecting air quality as far as Nikaia and Korydallos, western suburbs of Athens. Authorities described the atmosphere as “suffocating,” warning residents to keep windows closed until the smoke dissipates.
Five-Hour Firefighting Effort
A total of 20 firefighters with eight fire engines, along with fire and coast guard vessels, were deployed to the scene. The firefighting effort lasted more than five and a half hours, as strong winds and the confined marina space made access difficult.
Despite the scale of the fire, no injuries were reported. The Hellenic Coast Guard quickly cordoned off the area to ensure safety and prevent further damage.
Fears of Marine Pollution
Following the incident, specialized teams installed containment barriers around the wreckage site to limit potential fuel leaks and sea pollution from debris and burned materials.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, focusing on how the blaze ignited aboard the initial vessel and spread so quickly to neighboring yachts.
The destruction at Marina Zea — one of Athens’ most prominent marinas — marks one of the most severe maritime fire incidents in recent years, leaving behind extensive damage but, fortunately, no loss of life.
